top of page

The Bastille Crack

Colorado's Most Famous Climb

No other climbing route in Colorado is as famous or as sought after as the Bastille Crack. Climbers from all over the world come to Eldorado Canyon State Park to climb this mega classic five pitch trad route. A 30 second approach guards some of the absolute best climbing in North America!

Long before the Bastille Crack was first climbed by U.S. Army Soldiers in the 1950’s, Ivy Baldwin regularly walked a tightrope between the top of the Bastille Formation and neighboring Wind Tower. 582 feet below him, the South Boulder Creek roared as he made the Bastille Formation Famous.

Pitch one begins right off the road and follows a striking crack system for five pitches of moderate face climbing, hand jamming, and chimneying to a beautiful summit. This is a great summertime route as it sits in the shade until late in the afternoon. It’s not uncommon for ten or more climbing parties to climb the Bastille Crack in a day.

Have questions about this route? Contact Us or let us know if you've got another climbing objective in mind in Eldorado Canyon.

DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTION
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
PRICE INCLUDES
PRICE INCLUDES

Description

This is hands down the most famous route in Eldorado Canyon State Park and possibly all of Colorado. And for good reason! A very short hike up the road from the parking area puts you at the base of the Bastille. Near vertical face and crack climbing leads to the top of this incredible formation. A short scramble off the backside of the Bastille and you're back at your car.

The Bastille Crack is a very popular route. Please come with a little patience as not all parties climb the same speed.

More information:

  • Recommended experience level: intermediate to advanced

  • This is a semi-strenuous climb

  • 5 pitches, 5.7

  • Priced as a Full Day

Highlights

  • A moderate route up an incredible formation

  • One of the most classic climbs in the country

  • 5 to 6 pitches of spectacular climbing on polished edges and steep cracks

  • An up-close view of the old Ivy Baldwin tightrope

  • A very short approach and descent

Price Includes

  • A professionally trained and/or certified AMGA guide

  • All necessary climbing equipment including harnesses, helmets, climbing shoes, belay devices, ropes, and protection

  • Professional guiding and instruction throughout the entire day

Price Excludes

  • Transportation. You will be responsible for your own transportation to and from a designated meeting area

  • Gratuity

  • Personal items such as food, clothing, backpack, etc.

  • Entrance fees and parking fees (where necessary)

Hanging out on the Bastille Crack in Eldorado Canyon State Park

Pricing

1 Person = $415*

2 People = $300*

3 People = $275*

4+ People = Please call for large group rates

*Price is per person

  • Up to 8 hours in length

  • Custom tailored guided climbing and instruction

  • Perfect for: multi-pitch climbing or large groups looking to maximize their time climbing

  • Necessary for areas with long approaches

  • Typical start time is 8am

You May Also Like

Castleton_Tower.jpg

Castleton Tower

This is the iconic desert tower! 400 feet of the most enjoyable climbing leave you high above the ground with stunning sights in all directions.

Climb a Flatiron Repeater.jpg

Climb a Flatiron

One of Boulder's most iconic rock climbs. Climb over 1,000 feet of beautiful red sandstone and enjoy a view like no other as you stand on the top!

Climb_the_Maiden.jpg

The Maiden

One of the most adventurous routes you will ever climb! 360 degree views lead to a thrilling free hanging rappel. Truly, a wild adventure!

"I went rock climbing for the very first time and 20 feet up decided I'd made the wrong decision but Ben got me up that mountain and now I can't wait to go again! I love that everything is provided and all I had to bring was the willingness to have fun and try something new."

Kym B.

bottom of page