The Cays Rock Climbing

This is a small, obscure collection of granitic craglets that lie nestled in the trees just west of CO 7 near the Ironclads. Some of the craglets here are short enough to have only limited bouldering opportunities. One craglet, what I will call Cays 5 is tall enough to have close to a ropelength's worth of climbing. There are a smattering of routes that might appeal to the seekers of the less traveled who are tolerant of some oddities.

Note, this area has a history of use by ATV riders, motorcyclists, campers, and gun enthusiasts. You may/will find shotgun, rimfire, large caliber centerfire shells, bits of orange clay pigeons, and even large slugs in the area. Oddly, there have been shells and clay pigeons even at the base of some of these crags. Interestingly, even arrows and golfballs have been found partway up these routes. Beware!

In the spring and early summer, you can find a small water source with pleasantly cool liquids for your pleasure.

Primitive camping is available below the crags. Unfortunately, some of the previous campers have left evidence of a lack of understanding of the "Leave No Trace" ethic common to most climbers. So, consider bringing bags to help clean up the area if you visit. Thanks!

You get some nice views of the Southern Indian Peaks here.

Some of the routes here are mentioned in Gillett's Estes Park Valley guidebook; however, there does not appear to be listings of these climbs in the newer St. Vrain guidebook.

Addendum: new signage apparently indicates this is a designated shooting area. Apparently, this may have occurred after a shooting range proposal was turned down.