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

'Well, that is Rooster Rock, one of the marvels of the Columbia. We shall pass it close on our left.'

The 'marvel' is a column of dark basalt, of irregular conical shape, resting on the bed of the river sixty feet below the surface, and rising probably one hundred and fifty feet above the surging water. The powerful current must have spent ages in hewing the staunch shaft into its present shape. 'Looks it like a rooster?' No. It has not the slightest resemblance to one, but the top offers an admirable place from which to crow, could Mr. Gallus but reach it. Near by is another mass of rock, which answers very well for a hen, and scattered about are smaller ones, very suitable for chickens; thus is the spot supplied with a while family of the domestic fowl. ..."

Source:    Emma H. Adams, 1888, "To and Fro, Up and Down, in Southern California, Oregon, and Washington Territory ...", Cranston & Stowe, Cincinnati, Chicago, and St. Louis.

 

Fun afternoon Portland's classic climb, Rooster Rock.

 

Please bring

  • standard climbing gear (helmet, harness, belay device, 3 locking carabiners, 1-2 non-locking carabiners, personal protection).
  • Approach shoes (rock shoes optional)
  • Ten essentials
  • Head lamp
  • Food/snacks/water
  • Weather appropriate clothing

Any additional details will be shared in the prospectus.

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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