Granite Multipitch Climbs with Colorado Climbing Company

Climbing · Colorado Springs

Unaweep Canyon Classic Climbs

Tackle classic multipitch granite routes at Unaweep Canyon with Colorado Climbing Company. Perfect for climbers ready to experience quiet, stunning terrain and expert guidance on routes like Sweet Sunday Serenade.

View experience
Duration4–6 hours
LocationColorado Springs, Colorado
OperatorColorado Climbing Company
Price shownFrom $349

Adventure brief

Unaweep Canyon Classic Climbs

Tackle classic multipitch granite routes at Unaweep Canyon with Colorado Climbing Company. Perfect for climbers ready to experience quiet, stunning terrain and expert guidance on routes like Sweet Sunday Serenade.

Unaweep Canyon, often called "the canyon with two mouths" by the native Ute people, offers climbers an exceptional mix of quiet solitude and remarkable granite routes. Located in Colorado’s rugged expanse, this canyon features steep, clean rock faces that challenge climbers with classic multipitch routes—all under the guidance of Colorado Climbing Company’s expert instructors. Whether you're honing crack-climbing skills on Sweet Sunday Serenade or testing route-finding on The Washouts, Unaweep's granite walls provide a diverse playground free from the crowds found in more popular climbing hubs.

The Colorado Climbing Company specializes in delivering immersive short trips—lasting 4 to 6 hours—and accommodates groups up to three people, making for an intimate, tailored experience. Their guides hold AMGA certifications, ensuring that safety and technique go hand in hand with adventure. Each trip includes necessary group gear like ropes and carabiners and personal climbing equipment such as helmets and shoes, so all you have to focus on is the vertical challenge ahead.

The canyon’s geological features date back millions of years, with its granite formations offering solid, reliable protection, perfect for both newcomers to multipitch climbing and seasoned veterans. Expect to navigate a blend of crack systems, slabs, and chimneys, all framed by expansive views that stretch from mesa tops to distant peaks. Spring and fall bring ideal temperatures for climbing, while summer’s heat demands early starts or shaded routes.

Winter ascents are possible but require preparation for cooler conditions. This hidden gem of Colorado climbing provides a refreshing contrast to busier destinations, promising a day of stunning engagement with nature’s vertical landscapes. The Colorado Climbing Company’s trips at Unaweep Canyon stand out for their blend of expert coaching, striking scenery, and genuine adventure.

Adventure tips

Plan your experience.

Curated tips for an optimal adventure.

  1. 01
    Bring plenty of water

    Lack of shade makes hydration essential, especially in warmer months.

    essential
  2. 02
    Prepare for limited cell service

    Remote canyon location means phone signal may be spotty or absent.

    info
  3. 03
    Wear sturdy climbing shoes

    Solid rubber-soled shoes enhance grip on granite slabs and cracks.

    essential
  4. 04
    Start climbs early

    Morning climbs avoid afternoon heat and afternoon thunderstorms common in summer.

    warning
DifficultyChallenging
Duration4–6 hours
FitnessParticipants should have good endurance and upper body strength to handle multiple pitches and sustained climbing.
Technical skillsbelaying, multipitch climbing, basic crack and slab techniques

Recommended gear

What to bring.

01

Climbing harness

A secure harness is necessary for safety on multipitch routes.

Essential
02

Helmet

Protects against rockfall and rigging impacts common in canyon climbs.

Essential
03

Climbing shoes

Designed for precision on granite cracks and slabs.

Essential
04

Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)

Minimal shade means UV protection is critical during most seasons.

spring|summer|fallEssential

Local insights

Context for the journey.

Hidden gems

Nearby secrets

Ancient petroglyph sites near the canyon’s mouth, Secluded gravel bars along the canyon floor for rest and picnics

Wildlife

Local fauna

Golden eagles soaring above the canyon rim, Mule deer commonly seen along the approach trails

History

Historic heritage

Unaweep Canyon’s name comes from the Ute language, meaning "the canyon with two mouths," reflecting its unusual dual outlets flowing east and west.

Conservation

Mindful exploration

Colorado Climbing Company practices Leave No Trace principles to protect fragile desert ecosystems and granite surfaces from impact and erosion.

Photography tips

Capture the moments

Viewpoints
top of Sweet Sunday Serenade for panoramic mesa views, base of the canyon looking up at routes, the rim above Guides Route at sunset
Subjects
granite rock textures, canyon vistas, climbers on multipitch pitches
Best times
early morning, late afternoon, golden hour

Frequently asked questions

Before you go.

What experience level is needed for these climbs?

These routes are suited for climbers with some multipitch experience, but beginners ready for guided instruction are welcome.

Is all climbing gear provided?

Yes, Colorado Climbing Company supplies ropes, harnesses, helmets, and climbing shoes for the trip.

How far is Unaweep Canyon from the nearest city?

The canyon is approximately an hour’s drive from Grand Junction, the closest major city.

Are the climbs suitable for children?

Children aged 8 and up can participate with proper supervision and guidance.

What is the group size for guided climbs?

Trips accommodate up to three people, ensuring personalized attention.

When is the best time of year to climb at Unaweep Canyon?

Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and stable weather for climbing.

Colorado Climbing Company

Granite Multipitch Climbs with Colorado Climbing Company