Spire Three

BETA PHOTO: Closeup of the Cathedral Spires.

Description 

Spire Three is the high point in the third system of spires counting from the west. It is easily identified by the large summit area, which is the broadest of the main spires. A very obvious line climbs a chimney like slot in the west face (International Chimney). This route is one of the finest in the Cathedral Spires.

Getting There 

From the Cathedral Spires, take a look from the viewpoint. Spire Three is the left spire of the two obvious high spires seen. It is very wide in stature, and should be easy to pick out. Follow the trail #4 towards the spires. The best way to get to this route is to continue around to the back side of the spires, then find the Spire Two-Three gully. Station 13 sits at the top of this gully. Then Spire Three is the second spire from the top of the gully (Obelisk comes first, large roof with gnarly looking crack). Also, one could walk up the climbers trail between Spire Two and Three to the same point.

Featured Route For Spire Three

International Chimney 5.6 R  SD : Custer State Park : Cathedral Spires

International Chimeny is a classic route that shouldn't be missed. Start on the west side of Spire Three. Pitch 1 climbs up an easy chimney (class 4, easy class 5) between Obelisk and Spire Three. Continue this until at the base of the International Chimney. Pitch 2 climbs the obvious line. This isn't a chimney per se, in fact, no chimney moves are encountered. It is more of a detached flake from the main massive. Climb the large crystals ...[more]

Add Photo Photos of Spire Three

BETA PHOTO: Spire Three viewed from Spire Two