The route Wind Ridge is on the rock formation known as Wind Tower which is about 300 feet tall. Wind Tower is right across Bastille Rock. This rock can be quite crowded as it houses some of the more moderate routes in the park. However the ratings in Eldorado Canyon are known to be "old school". Most climbs are on the west side and follow the moderately angled rock. The rock quality is excellent but be aware that higher pitches still have some loose rock lying around. Many of the routes were established by legends like Layton Kor, Richard Rossiter, and others.

Getting There

Right after you entered Eldorado Canyon State Park about couple hundred yards to your right will be a parking lot. From the parking lot cross the South Boulder Creek on a bridge and the large rock tower to your right is Wind Tower. There is a distinct path which will take you to the base of various popular routes on this formation. The trail going uphill will take you to the base of routes such as Calypso and Wind Ridge.

Route Description

Pitch 1 (5.8) From the trail walk to the left end of the tower. There are two ways to start this pitch. Either go up the somewhat overhanging awkward flake (5.8) or go left the obvious wide gully and traverse right onto the face (5.5). The 5.8 start is highly recommended as it takes good pro and is more sporty. Once you top onto the flake go around the corner on the west face. From this point on climbing eases and follows a crack with good holds and pro to a large ledge, belay here on gear.
Pitch 2 (5.6) Go to your right and get into the crack which is the hardest move of this pitch. Follow the crack which becomes wider higher up. Save your biggest pieces for the last part of this pitch. Belay from the large ledge which almost looks like a cave. There is a 4th class walk-off option from this point to your left.
Pitch 3 (5.6+) I thought surmounting the weird roof and flake on the opening of this pitch was the hardest move of the entire climb. There are not many places for pro and holds above the roof. But the climbing eases, and reaches the summit at a tree. Belay from the tree and watch out for all the loose rock around.

Descent Traverse the rigde to your left on exposed slabs. Angle down to a notch but don't go too far low to your right. You will traverse below a rock formation and find the 2 bolt rappel station. A short rappel will bring you down to the trail. Walk back to the base of the route.

Essential Gear

A standard rack up to three inches. Two big cams in the range of #3 Camalots were useful on the second pitch. Single 60m rope (50m rope will work as well).

External Links

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