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Rock
Climbing at Riverside
There are some special places to challenge yourself
with rock climbing at Riverside State Park.
Dozens of routes await the
experienced climber in the Deep Creek area. Check out the April 1998 issue of Rock and
Ice for detailed descriptions of the Deep Creek routes. Be aware that this area is considered a challenge to advanced climbers, both traditional and sport, with difficulty of 5.12 and UP.
Deep Creek lies one mile south
of the Carlson Trailhead along the Centennial Trail, or about a one-half mile walk north
of the State Park Road access near the ORV area. Both access points require a short walk;
direct vehicle access is not available, but the approach is a breeze.
Deep Creek is a very special
place. A deep and narrow canyon is surrounded by basalt walls and pillows. In addition, a
seasonal creek echoes through the canyon even in the heat of summer, as it surfaces, falls
over rocks, and again disappears throughout the canyon. A network of hiking and mountain bike trails explore the area, with a fantastic view from "the benches" atop the coulee walls, and a series of awesome hoodoos (some great for bouldering) filling the canyon as it approaches the river. |