Climbing and Caving
The Cascade Mountains are often referred as the “American Alps” by professional climbers for their massive, glaciated spires that span across the range. Because of its rugged approaches, exceptional alpine terrain, and unrivaled scenery, it is a premiere training ground for climbers.
The Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest offers various levels of difficulty across different regions. Some popular climbing areas include Goat Wall area in the Methow, the Icicle River Gorge area outside Leavenworth, and the Rimrock area in Naches.
Search for Climbing and Caving Opportunities
Ballard Campground
This forested campground is located along the West Fork Methow River gives access to nearby hiking trails: Robinson Creek Trail #478 and Monument Creek Trail #484 entering the Pasayten Wilderness…
Blue Lake Trailhead
This trailhead gives access to Blue Lake Trail #314. The parking area is paved with about 20 designated parking spots, including one accessible parking spot. The parking is often full. If you choose…
Boulder Cave Day Use Area
This Day Use Area requires reservations and provides access to Boulder Barrier Free Trail and Boulder Cave Trail. A camp host will ensure access. There is a picnic shelter that allows visitors to…
Bridge Creek Campground
Site Closed
Located near the confluence of Bridge Creek and Icicle Creek, this campground is 9 miles from Leavenworth. There are 6 single sites that are not reservable, and 1 group site that can be reserved.…
Castle Rock Trailhead
The Castle Rock Trailhead is located directly off of US Highway 2, on the east side of the highway. It provides access to a large diorite feature with up to 600 feet of multi-pitch climbing. No…
Easy Pass Trailhead
Provides access to Easy Pass and Fisher Creek Trail in the North Cascade National Park on the south side of the pass.
Eightmile Campground
Site Closed
A popular campground located along Icicle Creek, just 8 miles from Leavenworth.
Eightmile Trailhead
This popular trailhead enters the Alpine Lakes Wilderness via the Eightmile Lake Trail #1552 which follows the Eightmile Creek drainage until Eightmile Lake. At Little Eightmile Lake, the trail…
Esmeralda Trailhead
Also known as the Lake Ingalls Trailhead, this trailhead provides access to Esmeralda Basin Trail #1394 and Ingalls Way Trail #1390 which enters the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Trailhead also…
Fun Rock Climbing Area
Fun (Phun) Rock is a beloved hometown crag that has plenty of family friendly moderates and a handful of enjoyable tougher routes as well. Largely sport, bolted routes. Note that the parking lot for…