Seven Routes That Grow You As An Alpinist

Being an alpinist is the best. It means beautiful views, great snacks, and intimate time in the mountains. It means rock climbing, ice climbing, and big vertical gains, sometimes all in the same day.

“Dream Routes” aren’t about ticking off the hardest line or proving anything. They’re the kinds of climbs that draw climbers in because of where they go, how they move, and what they ask of you along the way. They inspire us not because they look good on a resume, but because they represent the spirit of climbing itself. Each one offers a different lesson, a different style of movement, and a different kind of day. Below are some of my favorite lines in Rocky Mountain National Park, routes that continue to inspire me to head into the mountains.

Rock Routes

North East Ridge – Sharkstooth

5.6 • Grade III • 5 Pitches
A friendly alpine ridge on one of RMNP’s most recognizable spires. Expect varied 5th-class movement, airy positions, and a setting that makes you feel far from the trailhead without demanding elite difficulty. A great first “dream line” for alpine rock.

Southwest Corner – Petit Grepon

5.9 • Grade III • 7 Pitches
Sustained crack and corner climbing on an iconic alpine tower. The position, exposure, and rock quality make this route feel bigger than the grade suggests. A day that rewards steady efficiency and clean systems.

Ice and Mixed Routes

All Mixed Up – Thatchtop Mountain

WI4 • Grade III • 4 Pitches
A classic moderate ice line with varied terrain and reliable conditions. This climb invites thoughtful movement and good tool placements without feeling desperate. Ideal for dialing in real alpine ice skills.

Ice Climbing All Mixed Up in Rocky Mountain National Park

Alexander’s Chimney – Longs Peak

WI4 M4 • Grade III • 4 Pitches
A true alpine mixed experience. Chimneyed features, beautiful ice, and dry tooling demand composure and route-finding. The kind of line that teaches efficiency and flow.

Great Dihedral – Hallett Peak

M5- • 1000’ • 5 Pitches
A long, engaging dihedral system that blends rock and mixed climbing in a beautiful setting. Sustained but never overbearing, it’s a route that builds confidence in moving efficiently on varied terrain.

Full Package Routes

South East Face – Flattop Mountain

Easy 5th • WI2+ M1 • Moderate Snow • 900’
A sampler platter of alpine movement. Snow climbing, short technical steps, and easy rock come together in one aesthetic line. A perfect “put it all together” day.

The Flying Dutchman – Longs Peak

WI2-3 M2-3 • Easy 5th • Moderate Snow • 1600’
A big, classic couloir day above Chasm Lake. Long snow climbing, a technical step or two, and a real alpine feel from start to finish. More about rhythm and endurance than difficulty.

Plenty more routes exist, but these are a few that are worth your time. Each one offers a different kind of day and a different set of lessons if you pay attention. Get out, move through the mountains, and let your own list grow. Looking to attempt one of these amazing routes? Our team of trained and certified guides provide industry standard best practices, technical expertise, and local knowledge to help you get the most out of the mountains. Whether you are looking to learn the skills needed to climb, or looking for an incredible mountaineering experience, we have an offering for everyone!

Golden Mountain Guides is an authorized Concessionaire for technical climbing and mountaineering in Rocky Mountain National Park, and is one of only six such companies.