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Rooster Rock Rock Climbing

Climbing Area Map

Routes in Rooster Rock

L › R R › L A › Z

	Classic Route T 5.4 4a 12 IV 10 VD 3c
	Unknown [Just Shy Of The Tip] S 5.6 4c 14 V 12 S 4b

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Elevation:	154 ft	47 m
GPS:	45.54367, -122.25076 Google Map · Climbing Area Map
Page Views:	20,792 total · 163/month
Shared By:	Mike Zasadzien on May 20, 2014
Admins:	Roberta Zouain, Kristin Tippey, Micah Klesick, Nate Ball Page Updates (admin only)

See Weather Forecast

Access Issue: Seasonal Raptor Closure :: March 15 - August 15 Details

There is an osprey that began making its seasonal nest on top in 2019. It returned in 2020. Please avoid this pinnacle from March 15th to August 15th. These dates will likely fluctuate as we get a better understanding for the birds' breeding habits. See this timeline for a rough idea of dates from a different nest site:
allaboutbirds.org/cams/hell…

Description

Rooster Rock[previously known as "Cock Rock" for its phallic-like formation] is a basalt obelisk that sticks out right next to I-84 in the Columbia River Gorge.

Seen as good light trad practice or introduction for beginners to alpine-style climbing; Rooster Rock offers a 4th class scramble with a low 5th class finish that makes this one a favorite for a unique view in the gorge. A couple other variations and routes do exist however, but the rock itself can get easily crowded if there's even more than a single climbing team out there. So, beware on nice sunny weekends...

Can be climbed year round, but more typically late spring once the rains slow down, and into late fall; as the rock can be extremely slippery once wet.

Also to note that this column is made out of Oregon's finest loose rock, so be very mindful of hand placements as well as protection; some rocks have kindly been marked with chalked X's, but do proceed with caution. Be mindful and wear a helmet!

Getting There

Rooster Rock is located within the aptly named Rooster Rock State Park. From Portland, take I-84 east until you see signs for the state park[exit 25]; follow the directions, cross the bridge, and pay the $5 parking fee. Be aware that the park closes at dusk, and that cars have been trapped behind the metal gates before...
Here is a link to a GPX track from the West parking area to Rooster Rock that you can look at and download if you want. GPX Track Link

Try to get to the westernmost part of the lot near the bathrooms, and on foot cross the state park just east of the lagoon with a b-line directly to the interstate. There you'll find a fence that ramps upwards and westwards, and you'll get to walk on the other side of the barrier of the shoulder of the interstate. Walk on down just past the "Portland 22" mile marker sign, and keep your eyes peeled to the right for a trail that goes upwards into the bushes.

Follow the trail as it curves over to the west and brings you to dead end next to a massive tree.