Tumwater Canyon

Sarah Top Roping the Stash

Description 

Tumwater Canyon is the northern companion to Icicle Creek. Similar in character and rock type (quartz diorite) to Icicle Creek, the biggest difference between the canyons is the presence of Highway 2, the major route connecting Leavenworth to western Washington, and a source of pesky road noise at some crags. There are fewer crags in Tumwater than Icicle, but some great ones-- Castle Rock and Midnight Rock offer longer trad climbing, while Clem's Holler and surrounding crags offer numerous sport climbs.

There is camping in the canyon at Tumwater Campground, and several campgrounds in Icicle Creek Canyon, a short drive away.

Getting There 

Drive west from Leavenworth on Highway 2. Mileages are typically reported from the intersection of Highway 2 and the intersection with Icicle Creek Road on the west side of town.

The Classics

Featured Route For Tumwater Canyon

Dyno 101 V3  WA : Leavenworth : ... : The Beach

I hesitate to give a 1-move boulder problem a "classic" rating, but this truly is one of the best dynos around. It's a perfect introduction to large outdoor dynos, and features a great starting hold and a perfect lip to throw to.Try it with your left hand, your right hand, both hands at once, barefoot, with a crashpad on your back, or any other way you can think of. I did it almost 10 times in a row just for the fun of it.It'll feel easier than...[more]   Browse More Classics in WA