Hallett Peak Guided Ascent
Embark on a breathtaking alpine ascent with American Mountain School‘s exclusive program to ascent Hallett Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park! Our expert guides curate an unforgettable journey, blending technical skill and natural wonder. Ascend challenging terrain, experience high-altitude beauty, and savor panoramic views atop this iconic peak. Perfect for adventurers seeking a thrilling alpine challenge, our Hallett Peak program promises an immersive exploration of Rocky Mountain majesty.
Join us and immerse yourself in the exhilarating world of alpine climbing, mastering skills while conquering one of Colorado’s most iconic summits!
Why Choose American Mountain School for Hallett Peak Guided Ascent?
Challenging, Technical Routes for Advanced Climbers: Hallett Peak’s mixed alpine routes provide an ideal challenge for climbers looking to test and refine their technical skills on both rock and ice.
One-on-One Private Guiding for Maximum Focus: This ascent is exclusively offered as a one-on-one experience, allowing your guide to tailor the climb to your skill level and provide personalized coaching throughout the journey.
Experienced Guides with Specialized Alpine Skills: Our guides have extensive experience in mixed alpine climbing and are trained in advanced techniques for both rock and ice. They provide expert navigation and safety support on Hallett’s diverse terrain.
Safety-First Approach with Minimal Avalanche Risk: The technical routes we use, like Culp-Bossier, are not prone to avalanches, making this ascent safer for climbers during the winter. Our guides continuously monitor conditions for maximum safety.
Tailored Seasonal Experiences: Hallett Peak offers unique challenges and scenery in every season. Whether you’re climbing in the snow of winter or rock conditions of summer, our guides are prepared for safe, exciting ascents year-round.
Hands-On Skill Development in Mixed Alpine Techniques: This ascent is an opportunity to practice and improve on advanced climbing techniques, from ice tool placements to mixed climbing movement. Our guides provide continuous feedback to help you develop and refine your skills.
Breathtaking Views in Rocky Mountain National Park: Located in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park, Hallett Peak offers unparalleled alpine scenery. From rugged ridges to panoramic summit views, the experience is as visually rewarding as it is challenging.
Commitment to Conservation and Leave No Trace Principles: As stewards of Colorado’s beautiful landscapes, we’re committed to Leave No Trace principles, teaching responsible climbing and environmental respect to help preserve these mountains for future generations.
Discover Hallet Peak's Premier Climbing Experience
ADVANCED
Overview
Gear list
Clothing
Meeting location
Pricing
Overview
Hallett Peak is a mountain summit in the northern Front Range of the Rocky Mountains of North America. The 12,720-foot (3,877 m) peak is located in the Rocky Mountain National Park Wilderness, Colorado, United States, on the Continental Divide between Grand and Larimer counties.
Hallett’s 1000-foot North Face towers above Emerald lake and offers some of the best climbing in RMNP and divides into three buttresses. The chimneys Hallett Chimney and the Slit dividing the wall into three distinct buttresses are really grate as winter climbing objectives.
The First Buttress is more broken and lower then the others and the routes are not as long and difficult.
The Second Buttress sees most of the action with a variety of good routes in the 5.8 to 5.11 range. The Culp-Bossier 5.8 is probably the best route.
The tall and forbiding Third Buttress is the home of Northcutt-Carter (formerly 5.7) which was the most popular route on Hallett Peak until the first two pitches collapsed in July of 1999.
When To Climb
Hallett Peak can be climbed any time of the year. However, from June to September there is virtually no snow on the Flattop Mountain Trail. So summer and early autumn are the easiest time to climb this mountain. In winter it is somewhat more difficult due to the presence of snow, icy routes and of course the cold. But nothing is impossible. Winter ascents are real mountaineering!
Gear list
Warm period – (May-September/October)
Cold period – (end of October – April)
INCLUDES:
GROUP GEAR
- Rope: Durable, dynamic climbing rope for alpine protection and safety.
- Slings: Strong, lightweight nylon or Dyneema® slings for anchors and protection.
- Rock Protection: Includes a variety of nuts, cams, and other protective equipment for securing routes.
- Climbing Quickdraws: Lightweight quickdraws for clipping into bolts or rock protection along the route.
EXCLUDES:
Personal Gear for Warm Period (May – September/October)
- Climbing Backpack (30-35 liters): A comfortable, lightweight backpack with enough space for personal gear, food, and water.
- Trekking Poles (at least one): Useful for maintaining balance and reducing impact on the knees during approach and descent.
- Climbing Helmet: A certified helmet to protect from falling rocks or debris while climbing.
- Climbing Harness: A sturdy, comfortable harness to keep you securely attached to the rope during the ascent.
- Approach Shoes: Lightweight, supportive shoes for the approach, offering comfort and traction on rocky terrain.
- Technical Rock Climbing Shoes: Tight-fitting shoes designed for precise footwork on rock. They should be comfortable yet snug.
- Climbing Chock Bag: A bag to hold chalk, which helps keep hands dry and improve grip during climbing.
- Belay Device and Locking Carabiner: A belay device for safely controlling the rope, along with a locking carabiner to secure the belay setup.
- Belay/Rappel Gloves: Protective gloves designed to safeguard your hands during belaying and rappelling.
- Prusik (Hollowblock2, 13.5”): Essential for rope ascents and self-rescue situations.
- Headlamp (charged): A reliable headlamp with spare batteries for early starts or climbing in low light.
- Sunscreen/Lip Balm (high SPF): To protect skin and lips from sun exposure during the climb.
- Sunglasses: UV-protective sunglasses to reduce glare and protect eyes from harmful rays.
- Personal First Aid Kit: A small, compact first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic, and any necessary medications.
- Snack for a Day: High-energy snacks such as nuts, bars, or dried fruit to keep you fueled throughout the climb.
- Thermos (1 liter): A thermos for warm beverages, which is especially useful during colder conditions or breaks.
- Water (Isotonic) 1 liter minimum: Hydration for the day; consider electrolytes to aid endurance.
Personal Gear for Cold Period (End of October – April)
In addition to the items listed above for the warm period, you will need the following for winter or cold weather conditions:
- Climbing Backpack (40-45 liters): A larger, weather-resistant pack for carrying extra gear, technical equipment, and additional layers for winter conditions.
- Advanced Technical Climbing Boots: Insulated, crampon-compatible boots designed for technical winter climbing, offering warmth and stability.
- Sharpened Ice Tools (2 pcs): Quality ice axes designed for winter climbing with sharp, durable picks for effective use in mixed terrain.
- Crampons (pre-fit and sharpened): Crampons designed for mountaineering and ice climbing, ensuring excellent traction on ice and snow.
f you do not have any of the personal gear listed, please let us know. We have most of the required equipment in stock and can provide it for you upon request. Simply inform us ahead of time so we can ensure you have everything needed for your ascent.
Clothing
Clothing for Warm Period (May – September/October):
- Storm Jacket (membrane type): A lightweight, breathable, water-resistant jacket to protect against wind and rain.
- Light Down Jacket: A warm, packable jacket for insulation during breaks or chilly conditions.
- Climbing Pants: Durable, flexible pants designed for climbing with a comfortable fit.
- Base Layers: Moisture-wicking base layers to keep you dry and warm.
- Mid Layers: Insulating layers for added warmth if needed.
- Light Gloves: Thin, flexible gloves to protect your hands while maintaining dexterity.
- Buff: A multi-functional headwear for sun protection or warmth around your neck or face.
Clothing for Cold Period (End of October – April):
- Big Down Jacket w/ Hood: A heavy-duty down jacket to provide maximum insulation against cold temperatures.
- Down Pants: Optional but highly recommended for extra warmth during rest periods or while stationary in cold conditions.
- Storm Pants (membrane type): Waterproof and windproof pants designed to protect against the elements while maintaining breathability.
- Hard Shell Jacket: A durable, fully waterproof jacket to shield against rain, snow, and wind during the climb.
- Heated Socks: Optional but useful for those particularly sensitive to cold. Battery-powered socks to provide additional warmth during the climb.
- Gloves (2 pair): A combination of lighter gloves for dexterity and heavier gloves for insulation, to ensure your hands stay warm and protected.
- Mittens: A pair of warm, insulated mittens for extreme cold conditions during breaks or summit pushes.
- Winter Hat: A warm hat, ideally with a snug fit to protect against cold temperatures and wind.
- Buff: Useful for warmth, protection against wind, and as an additional layer around your neck, face, or head.
Meeting location
The meeting location for Hallett Peak trip is Eastes Park Safeway parking lot
Pricing
PRICE INCLUDES
- Climb itinerary
- Guide fees
- Group equipment such as ropes, rock protection, quick draws, etc.
- Human waste disposal bags
PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE
- National Park fee
- Forest/ Park Service parking pass (if any)
- Food during trip
- Transportation
- Personal gear (see gear list)
- Trip cancellation insurance
- Rescue Insurance
- Gratuity
- Expenses due to unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of American Mountain School
FAQ
Yes, prior rock and ice climbing experience is essential. This is a technical ascent with mixed routes, including sections up to 5.8 – 5.11 difficulty. Familiarity with climbing techniques and strong climbing skills are required.ed.
This ascent requires a high level of physical fitness, as the routes are steep and technical. You’ll need strength, endurance, and experience at altitude to complete the climb safely and enjoyably.
This is a full-day climb, generally lasting 8-10 hours depending on conditions and pace. We start early to make the most of daylight hours and allow time for breaks and technical sections.
The Hallett Peak ascent is offered as a private session with one climber per guide. This one-on-one format allows for personalized attention and focused support throughout the climb.
No, there is no avalanche risk on the technical routes we take, such as the Culp-Bossier. The routes are primarily mixed rock and ice, which are safer and not prone to avalanches.
Hallett Peak can be climbed year-round, with unique challenges in each season. Winter brings snow and ice, while summer provides rock-dominant conditions. Our guides are experienced in navigating both.
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own gear as long as it meets safety standards. Our guides will inspect your equipment to ensure it’s suitable for this technical ascent.
Hallett Peak Ascent Summer
Full day climbing with certified guide.
Prior rock climbing experience is required.
April 16 – October 15
Hallett Peak Ascent winter
Full day climbing with certified guide.
Prior rock and ice climbing experience is required.
October 16 – April 15
Ii you have any additional questions before booking this trip text us via our contact form: