Parachute Rock is an out of the way crag in the South Platte/South Rampart Range area. The climbing includes one, and two pitch moderate cracks, and a couple of slabs. There are several nice cracks in the 5.8-10c range, and even a gaping offwidth. This crag has some great views of Pikes Peak, and the south! Hubble's guide calls it one of the 'hidden gems' of the Platte. I would [recommend] the topo in his guidebook, it is right on. Most everything seemed to be an easy walk off, including the summit routes. It may be a little out of the way for the value, but, it makes a nice day in a nice setting. The approach is short which makes up for the drive.
Getting There
Finding this place isn't too bad if you have the right directions! We drove down Sante Fe to Sedalia, and took a right on CO Highway 67, go about 10 miles until you get to the Rampart Range Road turn-off where you go left at the obvious dirt road. From here, you have 21 miles of winding, washboard, dirt road. Go about 8-9 miles down Rampart Range Road, until you see the signs for Devil's Head. Here, take a right where the sign points you to Woodland Park. Follow this dirt road for 12 miles until you see a left turn on FR 327. Take FR 327 for about 0.6 miles until you see the pinnacle on your left, and park in an obvious pullout in a small draw. From here, the approach is only about 5-10 minutes and is obvious, heading straight up to the base of the climbs. Rack up.
Parachute is divided into two sections. The left broad slabby area, and up and right the alcove. The righthand end of the slabby area is terminated by a short wall of boulders with an easy access upwards to the alcove. At the righthand end of the slab is a narrow face bordered on the left by a bushy 5.5 crack and on the right by the arete formed by the right edge of the face. This route climbs the more or less continuous crack system on the l...[more]
Forgot to mention that the road gets a little rough in places getting here. So, if you have the choice between say, a honda or a pickup, you know which one to choose...
For a small crag this place if full of quality routes. It was spared by the Hayman fire and is always fairly cool in the summer. Quality south platte rock.
Rap anchors have been installed at the top of P1 Pete n' Ben's, Alcove 5.9 Route, and Flake Route. This now make it possible to rap (not lower) off of these routes. With some traversing adjacent routes could also access these anchors (Here comes the preaching) DO NOT top rope directly off of these anchors. Attach your own gear to the anchors and top rope off of that. This is a remote area and if the rings get worn through, someone could get hurt or killed before they got replaced. Someone has done us all a service, enjoy but don't abuse it.
When Jess and I went there we actually camped near the parking area for Parachute Rock. I don't know if that is allowed any more but there were a couple primitive sites when we were there. Hope you have fun!
Parachute Rock
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