In the late Spring of 1980, I was returning to climbing after an unsuccessful marriage/divorce, and Bob Culp suggested that we go up to Estes Park and climb one of his favorite routes: DeVille III Route, on DeVille III Rock. this route was already considered a "classic" even by 1980. Originally put up by Layton Kor, sometime prior to 1960, the route combines excellent rock, nice exposure, and great climbing at a reasonable level; At II, 5.7, this is a very good early season get-in-shape climb and is one I hope to repeat in the near future.

Bob also invited a young attorney to join us, and Larry Treece proved to be a great companion. We all enjoyed the leisurely stroll through the wooded approach from the Cheley Girls Camp, which was still closed in mid-May. We made an amiable group, and were in no big hurry to the base of the climb.

Bob was our designated leader, and he climbed the first short step in fine style.


As the officially designated photographer, I have lots of pictures but only a few of me climbing.


This pitch is very photogenic and has a great position for the photographer. The climbing is on a very featured and twisted gneiss, but offers only minimal protection possibilities.


Larry followed, with me bringing up the rear with the camera nad collecting the gear.


A view up the route as Larry neared the second belay ledge:


The third pitch:


And finally, the junk man cometh, collecting gear on that pitch:


I look back fondly at the photos of this climb, to a time when I had no physical issues and weighed a lot less than I do today. Nevertheless, I still climb after gaining about a pound a year over the intervening time. I'm making plans to do a repeat of this beautiful route sometime this Summer.

The climbing was outstanding, as was the conversation and spirit of comradeship. All in all, a most satisfactory day in the Rockies!