The History of Rock Climbing in the Flatirons
Few places in this nation share such a rich and diverse climbing history as the Flatirons. Home to the earliest rock climb in Colorado, since just after the turn of the 20th century the Flatirons has been a crucible for the evolution of climbing standards both state-wide and nationally. Early exploration of the Flatirons generally preceded that of other Colorado historical climbing Meccas like Eldorado Canyon and the myriad formations in Boulder Canyon. Many nationally and world famous climbers and mountaineers cut their teeth here, from Tom Hornbein to David Breashears, both of Everest fame. Other world renowned climbers like Layton Kor, Pat Ament, Roger Briggs, Jim Erickson, and others helped shape the rich climbing history of this area. As a result, national climbing standards were in many ways influenced by the world class climbing opportunities found in the Flatirons.
Today the Flatirons remain a premier destination for rock climbers from around the world. Although techniques, equipment, and skill have changed over time, the desire of climbers to enjoy the serenity and outstanding rock of the Flatirons has remained strong.
Read a chronology of significant routes
in the Flatirons from 1906 – 2000.
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