All Mixed Up (WI4), Thatchtop Mountain, Colorado

On a busy Saturday, All Mixed Up will see as many as 20 visitors, but thanks to the variations on the lower wall and the snow ledge (which catches ice falling from the last pitch), this classic climb can accommodate a large number of people, as long as parties climb with consideration [see P. 74 of Climbing Issue No. 255 - February 2007 for Donahue’s Tech Tip on ice etiquette].
From the top of the ice, nearly a mile of windy tundra and spectacular landscape draws your eyes toward Thatchtop’s 12,668-foot summit and the rewarding views. Although the complete ascent to the summit rarely gets done (most climbers choose a delicate descent on snowy talus to return to the base of the ice, rather than tackle the up to three hours of extra hiking and climbing), a go at the summit is always the best way to end a classic climb.

> Guidebook
RMNP, The Climber’s Guide, High Peaks Edition, by Bernard Gillett

> Guide Services
Colorado Mountain School; (970) 586-5758, totalclimbing.com

> Gear
Estes Park Mountain Shop: (970) 586-6548, estesparkmountainshop.com; and Trail Ridge Outfitters: (970) 586-4595, trailridgeoutfitters.com