This is a true Choss Master classic. This route climbs the crack on the east side of the east ear - the true summit verified with a level. The rock quality is horrific, but at least the gear is acceptable. Complete a short mantel, and climb a semi-overhanging section through a red rock band which has the worst rock quality. Improving rock quality then leads to a ledge where a 4th Class scramble then leads to the summit.

I blew a large rock and fell, so any edge/rock/foot/hand cannot be trusted.

A single 50m rope rappel from a good block on the summit gets you back to the ground.

East Rabbit Ear

Rabbit Ears Summit

Views from the summit are outstanding! 360 degrees of Colorado beauty will be the reward after climbing the last leg of Rabbit Ears Trail and the volcanic towers that give the peak its name.

A few easier climbs can be accessed at the top of the last, uphill, ridge section of the Rabbit Ears summit trail. The back of the Rabbit is the first section of rock you see at the top of the trail. Several different easier routes head up steep, loose trails to wide cracks that lead through the vertical, technical section of the easiest summit climbs. After 30 to 40 feet of chimney wide crack systems, a large ledge provides a belay stance for the rest of the party. A 3rd class scramble ascends for the remaining 50 to 60 feet to the summit.

3 to 4 hour (grade III) round trip from the gate parking lot.

Description

Location

Protection

Routes in Rabbit Ears Peak