Climbing guide City of Rocks

Guide to City of Rocks and Castle Rocks is your essential companion for amazing granite climbing in the Southern Idaho desert, one of the most popular summer climbing areas in the West Rocky Mountain.

Other landmarks have been dubbed the "City of Rocks", but for rock climbers, it's The City . It's called America's premiere granite sport climbing area—and is just as often praised for its unique traditional climbing. With over 1,000 routes to choose from, you can climb overhangs, pitches or 5.8 pitches or climb a dramatic tower - all within walking distance of your campsite.

Nearby you'll find historical signs, hikes, mountain biking and the western town of Almo to keep you supplied and entertained on your days off. Also included for the first time is climbing at nearby Castle Rocks State Park. With a different, quieter vibe than the City crags, Castle Rocks is a worthy destination in its own right, with more than 300 routes up to three pitches, with many lighter climbs with a more "modern" belay style that is suitable for beginners.

Dave Bingham has been chronicling climbing in the City of Rocks since the 1980s, but this is a ground-breaking edition with color photographs of the walls and excellent maps, ending the days of wandering in search of the desired crag. Action photography alone allows you to immediately plan your trip.