Dragon's Back Rock Climbing
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Elevation: | 5,521 ft |
GPS: |
45.9127, -112.32828 Google Map · Climbing Area Map |
Page Views: | 17,003 total · 105/month |
Shared By: | Ian Cavanaugh on Jan 16, 2011 · Updates |
Admins: | GRK, Zach Wahrer |
Description
This is large piece of granite near the summit of Homestake Pass. The Dragon's Back is located in a canyon on the north side of the highway and can be seen from the road. This area contains many classic routes including several multi-pitch routes. Also near the Dragon's Back is the Scarecase Cliff and Wheat Thin Area and Little Fire Canyon.
Getting There
The Dragons back should only be reached from the west bound lane of the interstate. the best way to reach it is to park before the big corner on the westbound lane in the large dirt pullout close to where the Dragon's back is visible near mile marker 238. From here head west till pass a talus field into some tree. From here a trail down should be visible. This will lead down and to the base of the West face. From the creek, Little Fire canyon is to you left up stream. Scarecase Cliffs will be down stream to you right. The Wheat Thins area is also visible from the interstate and also to you right on the opposite side of the Scarecase cliffs. It can also be reached easily by walking east from the car until another large talus field is visible. Head straight down, past a creek with a small waterfall and you'll walk straight to the cliffs.
As there are now lots of "No parking signs" near the old dirt pullout, and the parking at that location in question, one can also park at the large paved pullout almost directly south of the Dragons Back. This pullout is the first large paved pullout heading west/uphill. You'll not see the formation first, so stay aware, as missing your stop leads to a long turnaround drive. Head downhill to the north and then west, cross the creek, and follow the creek until almost directly under the toe of the formation. Many ways to cross the creek.
As there are now lots of "No parking signs" near the old dirt pullout, and the parking at that location in question, one can also park at the large paved pullout almost directly south of the Dragons Back. This pullout is the first large paved pullout heading west/uphill. You'll not see the formation first, so stay aware, as missing your stop leads to a long turnaround drive. Head downhill to the north and then west, cross the creek, and follow the creek until almost directly under the toe of the formation. Many ways to cross the creek.
Classic Climbing Routes at Dragon's Back
Mountain Project's determination of the classic, most popular, highest rated climbing routes in this area.
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