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Elevation: -11,456 ft
GPS: 45.41896, -111.23205
Google Map · Climbing Area Map
Page Views: 15,739 total · 77/month
Shared By: Sarge on May 15, 2007 · Updates
Admins: GRK, Zach Wahrer

Description Suggest change

This is one of the larger formations in the Gallatin Canyon. The rock quality is ok, mixed with some excellent rock. It's Montana so crowds are relative.

The main formation is split by a massive chimney dubbed the "Elevator Shaft." To the right of the shaft is the popular climb The Joker and the to left of the shaft is the popular climb Mother's Day This formation is a 2-tiered formation located north of Pineapple Buttress. This formation is the furthest north formation in the canyon. In general, it is possible to walk off either side of this formation but expect keen route finding skills for this choice.

Getting There Suggest change

To get there walk the Riverside Trail north from the parking lot. Hike like you are going to Pineapple buttress then veer left at the fork in the trail. You'll then see the lower part of the Watchtower. Hike across the scree field.

8 Total Climbs

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Location: The Watchtower - Lower Change
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Classic Climbing Routes at The Watchtower - Lower

Mountain Project's determination of the classic, most popular, highest rated climbing routes in this area.
5.8 5b 16 VI- 15 HVS 4c
 77
Watchtower Standard Route
Trad 3 pitches
5.8+ 5b 16 VI- 15 HVS 4c
 43
Mothers Day
Trad 3 pitches
5.9+ 5c 17 VI 17 E1 5a PG13
 21
The Joker
Trad 3 pitches
5.10b 6a+ 19 VII- 19 E2 5b
 13
The Canary
Trad 3 pitches
5.11+ 7a 24 VIII 24 E4 6a PG13
 6
Shelob's Lair
Trad
Route Name Location Star Rating Difficulty Date
Watchtower Standard Route
 77
5.8 5b 16 VI- 15 HVS 4c Trad 3 pitches
Mothers Day
 43
5.8+ 5b 16 VI- 15 HVS 4c Trad 3 pitches
The Joker
 21
5.9+ 5c 17 VI 17 E1 5a PG13 Trad 3 pitches
The Canary
 13
5.10b 6a+ 19 VII- 19 E2 5b Trad 3 pitches
Shelob's Lair
 6
5.11+ 7a 24 VIII 24 E4 6a PG13 Trad
More Classic Climbs in The Watchtower - Lower »

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