Swissco in Colorado; Photo by Johnie Gall
If Colorado is as close to Switzerland as you’re getting this year, take comfort: Swissco isn’t a bad substitute. This massive meadow filled with granite boulders is tucked away in the mountains, cut off from the crowds by a tough dirt road and a steep hike. Unpredictable weather covers the field in fog, which lifts to bright bluebird skies—it’s one of the most scenic places for bouldering in the state. There’s even snow up there for most of the year, so, no, it’s not Switzerland, but we like to think it comes pretty damn close.
What: A beautiful granite boulder field nestled between snow-capped mountains. Go for the scenery and the seclusion if not for the classic bouldering problems.
Swissco in Colorado; photo by Brandon Scherzberg
The stats: About 10,000 feet of elevation, public access climbing near the Fall River reservoir.
Where: Fall River Reservoir in Idaho Springs, Colorado.
How to get there: Take 1-70 just west of Idaho Springs to the Fall River Road exit. Take the road north for about eight to nine miles and at a hairpin turn, keep an eye out for Rainbow Road. Take a left onto this dirt road and drive up the mountain towards a reservoir, where you can park. Try to be discreet and don’t linger around the residential homes up here—this is a pubic access road but a few residents would argue otherwise. Hike around the right side of the reservoir and take the trail to the other end. At this point, you’ll follow a trail up a steep hike next to a waterfall and creek until you reach the top and start seeing wildflower gardens and giant boulders. From there, your route is up to you!
Swissco in Colorado; photo by Johnie Gall
When to go: The weather is never exactly favorable up in the mountains, but summer is your best bet for staying warm and avoiding snow (which is still there until the very end of summer). On a good day, you’ll only see some heavy fog floating through and a couple of showers, and the sun will peek out to warm up cold hands occasionally.
What to bring: Climbing shoes, a bouldering pad, flip-flops to change into, hiking boots, lightweight hiking clothing, rain shells, insulation like a fleece or a PrimaLoft layer, plenty of water and snacks, chalk (+ a toothbrush), and a first aid kit.
Swissco in Colorado; photo by Johnie Gall
Do: Be prepared for a hairy drive into the reservoir—there are large rocks in the road and deep ruts, so high-clearance cars are a must. Smaller cars will have to stop early and passengers should prepare for a few miles of walking.
Don’t: Fool around with the weather, or your safety. If you thought it was tough to get up here, imagine how difficult it’ll be for your rescuers to get you down (it doesn’t hurt to calculate how much time you’ll be sitting there, in pain). Summer storms move faster up here … if you see a serious one brewing, it’s best to wait it out or, if time allows, make a run for it.
Follow Johnie Gall on Twitter.
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