Rooster Rock is a well-known 180-foot pillar of Columbia River basalt located below the cliffs of Crown Point at the western end of Rooster Rock State Park. The rock was an ancient Indian place of worship and was originally called Woutoulat. This is probably the rock mentioned by Lewis & Clark as their camping place on November 2, 1805. According to Oregon Geographic Names, the modern name is of phallic significance.

Activity Notes

What to expect - Rooster Rock is less than a 30 minute drive out in the Gorge.  The climb is two pitches.  The first is 4th class and is done on a vertical fixed line.  The second pitch is low 5th class and will be belayed from above.  The climb can be done in boots.  To get down, you rappel the full length of the rope back to the ground.  The hike in is short.  It is a great chance to practice alpine rock skills.

We will meet at towards the west end of the Rooster Rock State Park parking lot (near the bathrooms) and be ready to hike in at 8 AM.  Carpooling is encouraged (but please consider your COVID risk).  The 2 PM finish time is an estimate - expect to be done by early afternoon.

Gear needed:

  • Harness
  • Helmet
  • Boots or approach shoes
  • Rappel device
  • Autoblock
  • Prussik cords (2)
  • Locking carabiners (6 or more)
  • Non-locking carabiner (1 or more)
  • Personal protection leash or nylon runner
  • Snacks/small water bottle
  • Small pack
  • Sunscreen
  • 10 essentials

BCEP 2023 grads preferred.

Other Information
Driving Distance from Portland 25 miles
Driving Time from Portland 0 hours
General Route Info summitpost: https://www.summitpost.org/rooster-rock-columbia-gorge/151864
Expected Duration Car to car in one day
Relevant Maps Google map https://goo.gl/maps/VNw2Q6omxRv
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