Two Aussies planning a NA Road Trip

I second the Devils Tower, you're already close in Ten Sleep.

Ryan Nevius wrote:Honestly, at this time of year, I'd drive into Tuolumne Meadows and climb the classics. Smoke from the fire may be a turnoff though.

Probably not the best advice right now. Given what is going on now with the fire, and the terrible air quality you'd encounter, I would stay well away from anything near Yosemite until things calm down a bit.

Maple is unique climbing and would be great weather right now, plus there is cheap camping to be had ($3 / night in Sites A, B, C, D and E at the bottom end of the campground). The number of cheap sites is limited, so you'd probably have an easier time snagging one if you show up on a weekday. Totally worth a visit now or for the first part of September.

If you pushed of Moab until later in September, the heat should be managable, especially by going to the handful of shady crags in Indian Creek.

Other possibilities:

In Idaho, you could also check out the Fins (vert-tech limestone sport on pockets). Under the radar, but supposedly excellent. No guidebook.

On your way back to Vancouver, you could go to some crags in Washington, including Leavenworth (everything from bouldering to big alpine routes), Washington pass (roadside alpine), Index (like a mini-Squamish), Little Si (sport). Climbing in Washington is great, and unlike Yosemite it isn't on fire. September is usually a good month there.

A stop in Smith Rock in late September could be good, albeit still a bit warm.

Did you all end up buying a car?

I'd hit the Bugaboos.

Hey JCM,

Really appreciate your advice. I was unaware of the fires in the Yosemite area. Is Lake Tahoe area far enough away from the fires?

I was thinking this plan:

Leave city rocks on Tuesday, head to maple canyon for a bit, then drive west through Nevada to Lake Tahoe Area, then head to Yosemite, quick stop in Vegas (maybe climb) then up to Utah (moab/Indian ck) before heading back to Vancouver and maybe stopping at some of your other suggestions.

What do you think of this plan, it's not as efficient distance wise but I think it will work better for temperature. If we do maple canyon then moab, it will prob be too hot?

Wankel - yes bought a car in BC, ford windstar $1500, been perfect.

Cheers

Jason