The Diamond, Granite cliff on Longs Peak, Colorado.
The Diamond is a nearly vertical granite wall on the eastern face of Longs Peak that rises approximately 2,400 feet (730 meters) above Chasm Lake. The rock face contains multiple distinct sections and forms one of the most prominent cliff formations in Rocky Mountain National Park.
The first ascent occurred in 1960 when climbers Dave Rearick and Bob Kamps reached the summit, establishing new standards for technical climbing in North America. Since then, the wall has become recognized worldwide as a destination for serious rock climbers.
The Diamond serves as a gathering point for rock climbers who participate in annual events and training sessions throughout summer months.
Climbers should start their ascent before sunrise to reduce exposure to afternoon storms and lightning, and must carry full technical climbing equipment. Weather conditions can change rapidly at this altitude, affecting visibility and rock conditions throughout the day.
The wall contains more than 100 established climbing routes, with each section requiring different techniques and protection methods depending on rock quality. Many routes have been documented over decades and require specific knowledge of their individual characteristics.
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