As one of the most classic climbs of North America this is one to set your sites on if climbing in Colorado. Located on the north side of Crestone Needle it usually comes into dry conditions later in July. Although you can't rule out a freak snowstorm in August it's usually in it's most enjoyable form, in other words dry, til the first major snowstorm in October.
With the direct start being both the most direct line and adding in a a few more pitches of rock climbing this climb is at a fairly attainable 5.7. This makes it a good climb for strong climbers who may be new to backcountry climbing or backpackers who might not be really strong climbers. The crux pitch is very near the top though so if you're not used to climbing 5.7 at altitude it may feel a little harder. A few excellent pitches of corner climbing at the base leads to about 1000' of mellow scrambling before getting to the last amazing pitches of solid rock climbing that deposits you a short distance from the summit. This gives roughly 2000' of solid climbing total.
We believe this is most enjoyable and most successful when done as a 3 day trip. This allows a day to hike in and camp at the South Colony Lake, plenty of time to focus on the route the second day, and then a relaxing day to hike out. For those well acclimated or of high fitness we also offer a two day itinerary.
Not psyched on carrying all that climbing gear? Ask about our porter services.
While we can offer climbs of Ellingwood Arete from Memomorial Day til October it is generally best between July and September.
| 1 Guide | Three Day Itinerary | Two Day Itinerary |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Guest | $1317 | $1008 |
| 2 Guests | $1097 | $848 |
| 3 or more guests please call (719) 209-6649 or email us! | ||
Rate Information:
All rates are per person, e.g. 2 people for a 2 day itinerary would be $848/person for a total of $1696. Certain technical objectives may require lower ratios and proof of competency if you have never climbed with us before. That may entail something as simple as a climbing resume or reference or doing a quick half day of rock climbing with us ahead of time.
Discount Information: We appreciate our guests but discounts are limited to the following and cannot be combined with any other offer.
Early Bird Discounts and Last Chance Pricing: Book early and save! Schedule any alpine climbing trip a month or more in advance for a 10% discount. Any trip booked with less than 48 hours notice incur a $100 convenience fee.
Ellingwood Arete This climb is located on Crestone Needle near the upper South Colony Lake. This is outside the town of Westcliffe, CO. Frequently our guests fly into Denver International or Colorado Springs Municipal Airport allowing us to check their gear in person before starting their days of climbing.
We also offer climbs in the Southern Sangre De Cristos near the town of Alamosa. Denver International and Colorado Springs Municipal Airport are still the best locations for flights. From Colorado Springs it's roughly two hours to the Northern Sangres and another 45 minutes farther to the Southern Sangres.
-Group climbing equipment (ropes, carabiners, etc).-Individual climbing equipment (harness, helmet, boots, crampons, and any necessary equipment for climbing).
-Group camping equipment for overnight trips (tents, stoves, water treatment) -Dinner from the first night of the trip til breakfast of the last day, excluding lunch/snacks.
-Guide with AMGA training and certification for climbing and instruction.
-Transportation to climbing sites or any sort of lodging. Please note, most trailheads require high clearance and 4WD. We're happy to make recommendations on how to arrange these but guests are responsible for making sure they have an appropriate vehicle. Additional days may be needed when approaching from lower 2WD trailheads.
-Guide gratuities.
-Personal clothing and footwear appropriate for the objective (unless mountain boots are required).
-Personal snacks/lunch and water.
-Trip Insurance
-Other costs not associated with services provided by The Colorado Climbing Company.
Refund and Cancellation Policy: If for some reason you need to cancel your course or trip outside of 30 days you will receive a full refund less service charges to cover our costs incurred. For trips less than $500 this service charge is $50 and for those more than $500 this service charge is $100 or 10% of the trip cost, whichever is greater. If you must cancel within 30 days of the course or trip a refund of 50% will be given. All balances are due in full before the start of any course or trip and no refunds will be given beyond the course or trip date. In the case of unsafe conditions, weather or other circumstances beyond our control we will do our best to reschedule or issue a credit for a future trip. If this isn't possible you will receive a refund less the previously outlined service charges.
