Climbing Near Blackfoot, Idaho

East Idaho includes the climbing areas of Massacre Rocks and Pocatello's Ross Park and many more. This is the Eastern Region of the state including the cities of American Falls, Pocatello, Idaho Falls, and Driggs.

Just east of the playground there are several bolted routes that were established in 2012. I never publically posted this on Mountain Project due to the chossy nature of the wall. However, being the word is out, here's a rundown of the area. The intent of this wall was to establish some easier routes for the new leader. The wall is very heavily featured making the grades somewhat subjective. There are several variations to each route. The grade tied to each route is a starting point. Things may be harder or easier than listed. This makes repeating the routes quite fun as you can make mix things up. There are 2 or 3 moderate routes that are quite good. It's a nice addition to the area and differs a little from the standard routes the playground is known for. Climb at your own risk- The wall is likely in need of blocks being removed. Bolts may need to be moved as things start to clean up. This is chossy basalt, and while it's packed full of features, there are holds that occasionally loosen up and eventually dislodge. Climb cautiously, communicate with your belayer and stay safe.  Use the same approach as for the playground (trail approach not the rappel) and just before the pump station you will find a short south facing basalt cliff about 100 yards or so west (down river) of the playground.

Downstream from Crank Cave is the Playground, a vertical wall with some great moderates on blocky, broken basalt. The place bakes during the summer but is quite nice early or late in the season. The area guidebook is Sweet Spots, by Jerry Painter and Matt TeNgaio, available at Idaho Mountain Trading and Sticks and Stones. Pick up a copy! East from Firth about 10 miles on Wolverine canyon road. If you pass the Rattlesnake transfer sign, you've gone about a half mile too far. (you're at Crank Cave) Either take the descent trail to the west (near the large pipeline) or rappel from bolt anchors at the top of the wall.