Cirque of the Towers

The Cirque of the Towers is a horseshoe of jagged granite peaks in the southern Wind River Range of Wyoming, one of the most beloved alpine climbing amphitheatres in North America. Ringed around Lonesome Lake, its spires include Pingora, Wolfs Head, and Warbonnet.

The rock is superb granite, clean and solid, forming ridges, aretes, and steep faces. The climbing is alpine traditional, protected by gear, with routes from a few pitches to long, committing days. The classic East Ridge of Wolfs Head and the standard routes on Pingora sit around 5.6 to 5.8 and are treasured for their position and quality, while harder lines on the surrounding towers reach 5.10, 5.11, and beyond. The area is famous for its concentration of moderate multi-pitch climbs in a stunning setting.

Practical detail: reaching the cirque requires a long hike, typically over Jackass Pass from the Big Sandy trailhead, roughly 15 kilometres with a mountain pass to cross, so climbers backpack in and camp for several days. The area lies within the Popo Agie Wilderness, where permits, food storage, and camping rules apply. There are no services beyond the trailhead.

Season and character: the season is short, roughly July to September, once snow clears from the pass and the routes dry, and before autumn storms arrive. Afternoon thunderstorms are frequent, so parties climb early. At around 3,000 metres, nights are cold even in summer. The combination of accessible-quality granite, moderate classic routes, and a wild high-mountain basin makes the Cirque a rite of passage for American alpine climbers willing to carry a heavy pack.