Rock Climbing at Horsetooth

The Skinny:

So as you can probably tell by the rest of my blog by now, I love Horsetooth Resevoir. It was the feature of my last blog post and it was the feature of my first blog post and here I am going to feature it again. Horsetooth Resevoir is reknowned for its Bouldering. Bouldering is rock climbing without the use of ropes or harnesses. It is typically done with a small padded mat called a crash pad, a top rope for the bigger climbs where coming down isn't an option, some good climbing shoes and some hand chalk. Sizes for the rocks to boulder can range anywhere from 10 feet to 25 feet high; although, higher traverses are only recommended for those who are experts and are completely confident in their capabilities since there is no turning back in bouldering. There are a number of cliff faces which are definetly worth checking out up at Horsetooth. Some of the most notorious and difficult faces come with names like the Mental Block and the Eliminator. There are numerous beginner rocks that might not be featured on a map, but which are good for just gaining your bearings and learning the basics. Rock climbing is a fun, healthy and rewarding experience that I highly suggest for anyone who loves the outdoors.

Directions:

I've already given the directions to get to Horsetooth Resevoir so many times in my blog that to do it again seems a bit redundant to say the least. Instead, if you are truly interested in attempting rock climbing at horsetooth. You can view an extensive map of the area and where to head at this site:

http://www.co.larimer.co.us/parks/horsetooth_map.htm

Additional Information:

If you are really serious about bouldering but worry about the dangers of doing it on a real rock your first time out, there are several rock gyms in Fort Collins which are reasonably affordable and provide ample safe space to learn a new hobby. The most well known is certaintly the Inner Strength Rock Gym located on South Mason road. You can find out more information by visiting their website:

http://www.innerstrengthrock.com/

Finally, If your really really into Rock Climbing and you just can't find enough spots to feed your insatiable desire then pick up this book Colorado Front Range Bouldering Fort Collins, Vol. 1. You can pick it up at Jax sports on the North end of town or you can buy it off of Amazon.com. Here's the link: http://www.amazon.com/Colorado-Bouldering-Collins-Regional-Climbing/dp/093464196X