Penitente Canyon

If technical rock climbing is your type of adventure, then Penitente Canyon may have what you want. The canyon is known for its nearly 300 world class technical rock climbing routes. South-facing routes can be climbed year-round within the Recreation Area. Numerous Trails are also available for your enjoyment within Penitente Canyon SRMA. Other attractions include trout fishing in La Garita Creek and primitive camping. For more information, please contact the San Luis Valley Field Office.

If you’re not the rock-climbing type, there are manageable hiking trails that will take you close to the action. Try to spy one of Colorado’s rarest plants, the neo-parrya, scaling the cliff walls. The canyon is part of the Bureau of Land Management’s 4,552-acre recreation area of the same name, and there is a network of single-track trails for bikers and horseback riders, in addition to a campground.

History buffs will relish the Native American and Spanish history in the area. The canyon got its name from Los Hermanos Penitentes, a Spanish religious sect that favored Pentinente Canyon for its solitude in the 1880s. When you visit to capture a bit of your own solace and spirituality, don’t miss the Virgin of Guadalupe painted high on a canyon wall and the ruts of ox carts that remain from the days when the Old Spanish Trail traversed the area.

Activities

Rock Climbing Penitente stands as a haven for rock climbers. With its soaring cliffs and intricate rock formations, this canyon offers a diverse range of routes suitable for climbers of various skill levels. Penitente Canyon's allure lies in its varied rock types, from limestone walls to pockets and challenging overhangs, creating an exciting playground for climbers. The canyon's bolted routes cater to both sport climbing enthusiasts and those seeking a taste of the outdoors. More about Rock Climbing

History and Culture Penitente Canyon's rich history intertwines with its geological wonders. History buffs will relish in the Native American and Spanish history of the area. Pictographs (painted panels) discovered there depict game drives and hunting expeditions, likely drawn by the Puebloan, Apache or Ute tribes. The canyon is named after Los Hermanos Penitentes, a secretive religious brotherhood that favored the Canyons in the 1880s for their solitude. The group practiced a blend of Catholicism infused with indigenous beliefs and traditions. The Penitentes were known for their rituals and acts of penance, often involving self-flagellation and reenactments of Christ's crucifixion during Holy Week.

When you visit, don’t miss the Virgin of Guadalupe painted high on a canyon wall, and the ruts of ox carts that remain from the Old Spanish Trail.

Hiking and Mountain Biking Exploration in Penitente Canyon isn't limited to climbing alone. An extensive singletrack trail system is used by hikers and mountain bikers, traversing the stunning landscape and discovering the unique flora and fauna that call this canyon home. The entire recreation area’s over 7,000 acres is open to the public.

La Garita Natural Arch or "La Ventana" La Garita Natural Arch, affectionately known as "La Ventana," stands as a majestic geological wonder and is said to be a sacred site for the Jicarilla Apache and Ute tribes.

Getting There

From Highway 285 turn west on County Road G, travel about 6 miles to La Garita follow County Road 38A until you see the Penitente Canyon turn off on your right, less than a mile.

From Del Norte travel northwest on Highway 112 to road 38A turn north, stay on 38 A until you see signs for Penitente Canyon, about 8 miles.