Climbing the Flat Irons
Overview
Flatirons Guided Rock Climbing in Boulder, Colorado
Classic Multi-Pitch Climbing on Iconic Front Range Sandstone
The Mountain Guides Colorado proudly offers guided rock climbing in the Flatirons, Boulder’s most iconic climbing destination. Rising dramatically above the city, these sculpted red sandstone formations feature long, east-facing slabs and striking ridgelines that dominate the skyline just south of Boulder, CO.
With over 1,000 feet of moderate climbing, the Flatirons are home to some of the longest and best beginner-friendly multi-pitch climbs in the country. Beyond the famous slab routes, hundreds of steeper and more technical lines are tucked into the trees along the flanks and back sides of these massive formations—offering variety, adventure, and a true alpine feel remarkably close to the Front Range.
Once you step onto the rock and into the forested gullies, it’s easy to forget just how close you are to town.
Climbing Overview
Flatirons Guided Rock Climbing
- Location: Boulder, Colorado
- Rock Type: Red sandstone slabs and faces
- Style: Traditional, multi-pitch climbing
- Trip Length: Typically 8 hours
- Season: Spring through fall (conditions dependent)
The majority of Flatirons routes are medium-length, traditionally protected multi-pitch climbs, making them ideal for climbers looking to build mileage, confidence, and efficiency on longer routes.
Routes & Objectives
The Flatirons offer a wide range of climbing experiences:
- Classic East Face Slab Routes: Long, moderate climbs with stunning exposure and approachable movement
- Steeper Hidden Routes: More technical climbs tucked into the trees and less-traveled aspects
Our guides select routes based on your experience level, comfort on slabs, and personal goals, ensuring a challenging but supportive experience.
Who This Trip Is For
Guided Flatirons climbs are ideal for:
- Climbers looking to gain experience on multi-pitch routes
- Intermediate climbers transitioning from single-pitch to longer objectives
- Climbers seeking mentorship on traditional gear and systems
- Visitors wanting a classic Boulder climbing experience with a professional guide
Prior multi-pitch climbing experience or instruction is required to participate in our group climbs.
Private guiding options may be available for climbers seeking a more customized experience.
What to Expect
On a guided Flatirons climbing day, you can expect:
- Professional route selection and risk management
- Instruction in efficient multi-pitch systems and transitions
- Coaching on movement, footwork, and slab technique
- Stunning views of Boulder and the Front Range
- A full, rewarding day on classic Colorado stone
Why Climb the Flatirons with The Mountain Guides Colorado
- Experienced, professional rock climbing guides
- Deep local knowledge of Flatirons routes and conditions
- Emphasis on safety, efficiency, and skill development
- Small group sizes for a high-quality experience
- Access to one of the most iconic climbing areas in the Front Range
Climb Boulder’s Most Iconic Rock
From historic slab routes to hidden technical lines, Flatirons Guided Rock Climbing in Boulder, Colorado offers an unforgettable multi-pitch experience in a truly unique setting.
Private Climbs
Our Private Climbs are best for people looking to get the most out of the day. Our guides will work with you to come up with an itinerary based on your skills and agenda and deliver personalized coaching and instruction to help you achieve your climbing goals.
$525 for one, $335 / person for two and $275 / person for any group of three or more.
Please read through our policies by visiting this page.
For your safety and comfort, bring synthetic and or natural fiber clothing for insulation. Cotton is NOT recommended and down must be kept dry. Clothing should be able to layer without encumbering your movement.
Footwear
Objective Dependent – Scarpa footwear is available at Jackson Hole Mountain Guides for rent. JHMG also carries a selection of rock shoes for rent.
- Sticky Rubber Approach Shoes: required for all mid-summer climbs (mid-July through Sept). Guide Pick: Scarpa Crux (Available for rent)
OR
- Mountain Boots: Trips before July 15, require a crampon-compatible mountain boot. Guide Pick: Scarpa Zodiac Tech (Available for rent)
- Rock Shoes for technical rock routes (Available for rent)
Upper Layers
- Synthetic/Wool Long Underwear Top
OR
- Synthetic/ Wool Sun Hoody – Guide Pick: Mountain Hardwear Crater Lake Hoody
- Synthetic T-shirt
- Insulating Jacket: lightweight fleece or synthetic
- Soft Shell: fleece or pile
- Rain Jacket: waterproof/breathable with hood.
Bottom Layers
- Synthetic/Wool Long Underwear Bottom
- Hiking Shorts
- Synthetic Climbing Pant
- Rain Pant
Accessories
- Hat: lightweight to medium weight warm hat – sleek enough to be worn under a helmet
- Gloves: one lightweight to medium weight pair – synthetic or fleece material. If snow route, shell also recommended.
On the Trail
- Back Pack: internal frame 30 Liter capacity (2000 cu in)
- Water Bottles (2-3 L/Qt.) Or H2O Hydration system
- Dark Sunglasses
- Extra Pair Contact Lens
- Sun Hat or visor
- Sunscreen (35+SPF)
- Lip Balm
- Insect Repellent (until early August)
- Headlamp, Fresh batteries
- First Aid: minimal – blister care, analgesic, etc.
- Lunch and Snacks
Optional Items
- Trekking Poles
- Camera
Cold Weather Considerations:
Early and late-season temperatures require warmer clothing. You may consider additional clothing if you get cold easily or if it is unusually cold or windy.
- Down Jacket
- Vest
- Medium-weight long underwear
**Jackson Hole Mountain Guides supplies all the rock climbing gear, harnesses, helmets, locking carabiners & belay/rappel devices, crampons, and ice axes. However, you are welcome to bring your own equipment. Please coordinate with our office for gear checks. Backpacks, rock shoes, and boots can all be rented & purchased in our Jackson office.





