Rocky Mountain National Park is seeking outfitters to lead climbs in the park, such as this one up Longs Peak/NPS

Rocky Mountain National Park, with its towering, attractive peaks, is a magnet for many climbers, particularly those interested in climbing Longs Peak and ticking off one more "Colorado '14er." That goal could become a bit more achievable in the future, as the park is seeking outfitters to lead commercial climbs.

It is estimated that less than 1 percent of total climbing in the park results from guided climbing; the remainder comes from private, non-commercial use. 

During 2015, the park will issue limited-trip Commercial Use Authorizations (CUA) for guided technical climbing in the park. These CUAs provide an opportunity for qualified mountaineering companies to access the park on a limited basis. In 2015, the park will issue one limited-trip CUA permit for guided technical climbing per company. Each permit will allow up to three non-consecutive calendar days of guided technical climbing in the park. The maximum number of clients allowed per day will be 12. Trips will be subject to appropriate guide-to-client ratios as outlined by the park. Post-trip reporting will be required of all permit holders. 

To apply for a limited technical climbing CUA permit, a complete application packet must be submitted to the park'™s concession office a minimum of one month in advance of the first client day. Applications are currently being accepted. These limited guided climbing CUA permits are only for 2015 and companies should only anticipate operating in the park during the 2015 calendar year.

For a limited-trip CUA application packet or for any questions about the permits and the application process, please contact the park'™s Information Office at (970) 586-1206.