The Kingfisher from the NE. You can see one of us ...
Description
The Kingfisher is the closest of the big towers to the parking lot, and the easiest to climb. The Colorado NE Ridge is the easiest of the big Fisher Towers aid routes, but it is still not a giveaway. The Kingfisher also sports a selection of very difficult and dangerous aid routes, two of which were put up solo by Jim Beyer. Feel free to shudder as you walk underneath the Death of American Democracy on the way to the Colorado NE Ridge.
Getting There
Walk along the Titan Trail past Ancient Art, and look for a climbers trail heading up the gully between Ancient Art and Cottontail Tower. Head up past Stolen Chimney, and scramble up some mud cliffs to the base of the Kingfisher. There are many climbers trails through here, and the easiest way is tough to find.
This is a great introduction to the bigger towers of the Fishers. The climbing is relatively clean, quick and easy. The exposure is fantastic. This route climbs the left hand arete of King Fisher as viewed from the parkinglot. To reach the route, hike out to the Cobra (just past Ancient Art). From there, hike up the hill past Death of American Democracy, and just below the northeast arete, you'll see the first pitch bolt ladder.P1- Climb a b...[more]
This is a grand experience for anyone inclined to go beyond the Ancient Arts realm. Having done this route many times, it should be noted that the quality of the crux placements (third pitch) is diminishing. In fact, immediately off the third belay, the crack leading to the first fixed piece is getting very worn. It readily goes clean but hammering destroys the clean placements.
Be prepared to feel like you are sticking your neck out a little on this route. But most of all, savor being in the Fishers. It is a magical place.
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