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

Scheduling Notes

The current climb date is Saturday, April 4. If the weather conditions are not right, we might postpone the climb to Sunday, April 5. Because of this schedule uncertainty, the climbers will not be accepted to the climb until just a couple of days prior to the climb, when we have a reliable weather forecast. The leaders will establish communication with the climbers in advance and check on their availability.

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 will rappel the full length of the rope back to the ground. The approach hike is short. Climbers should be prepared for fixed line travel, top rope climbing on a vertical pitch, rappelling, and all of the knots and safety checks these skills require.

Logistics

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.

The 2 PM finish time is an estimate - expect to be done by early afternoon.

An Oregon State Park Permit is required for parking. Day passes - $10/day for OR residents or $12/day non-residents should be available at the park entrance.

Gear Needed

  • Harness
  • Helmet
  • Boots or approach shoes
  • Rock climbing shoes (optional)
  • ATC belay and rappel device
  • Autoblock
  • Prussik cords (2)
  • Locking carabiners (6 or more)
  • Non-locking carabiner (1 or more)
  • Personal protection leash or nylon runner (2)
  • Snacks and a small water bottle
  • Small pack
  • Sunscreen
  • 10 essentials
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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