Dive into the heart of incredible granite climbing in the arid desert of southern Idaho with "City of Rocks and Castle Rocks State Park," your essential companion for an unforgettable adventure. Located in the Rocky Mountains, it's one of the most popular climbing areas in the summer. Other places have been named "City of Rocks," but for climbers, this one is THE City. It has been described as the premier granite sport climbing site in America, but also often praised for its unique traditional climbing.
With more than 1000 routes to choose from, you can grip overhanging patinas, wrestle in wide cracks, climb multi-pitch routes at 5.8, or reach the summit of dramatic peaks, all just steps from your campsite. Nearby, you'll find historical inscriptions, hiking, mountain biking, and the picturesque western town of Almo to entertain you during your rest days.
For the first time, this guide also includes climbing at Castle Rocks State Park, offering a different and quieter ambiance than the cliffs along the road. Castle Rocks is a destination in its own right, with more than 300 routes up to three pitches, offering many moderate climbs with a more modern and beginner-friendly equipment style.
Specifications
- Author: Dave Bingham
- Publisher: Wolverine Publishing
- Publication Year: 2016
- Edition: 1st
- Number of Pages: 312 in color
Regions Covered
- City of Rocks
- Castle Rocks State Park
About the Author
Dave Bingham, originally from Long Island, NY, spent his childhood in the Northeast, learning to ski and climb from his teenage years before moving west in the 1970s. He spent his summers in Yosemite and his winters near Sun Valley, Idaho, guiding climbing and teaching cross-country skiing. He now lives in Hailey with his wife Lisa, where he runs a log cabin caulking business. On the climbing front, Dave is a prolific route developer with over 200 first ascents up to 5.13, spanning more than 30 years, in the City of Rocks alone. Although he continues to create new routes, Dave is now more of a mentor on the climbing scene in Idaho.
Explore the wonders of climbing at City of Rocks and Castle Rocks State Park with Dave Bingham's ultimate guide. With decades of experience and passion, Dave offers you an in-depth dive into these spectacular landscapes and vertical challenges.
Whether you are an experienced climber looking for new challenges or a novice seeking to explore the vertical world, this guide will accompany you every step of the way, inspiring and guiding you to unforgettable adventures.