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Acker Rock
Acker Rock is located on the Tiller Ranger District of the Umpqua National Forest. There are 20 established routes on Acker that range in difficulty of 5.5 PG to 5.10d. Some of the most popular of these are the Peregrine Traverse (Oregon’s longest II to III 5.6 climb, 9 pitches) and Eagle’s Dare (III 5.9, 8 pitches). In addition, Oregon’s longest multiple rappel from the ridge of Acker Rock Lookout to the base of Eagle’s Dare is close to 550 feet in length. This is some of Southwest Oregon adventure climbing at its best.
While climbing, take some time to look for the local peregrine falcons and Erigonum villosissimum (Acker Rock Buckwheat). The peregrine falcons can be seen flying around Acker throughout the year, and the area is closed from January 1st to July 31st to let the falcons nest. Acker Rock Buckwheat is endemic to Acker Rock and was discovered in 2009. Additionally, there is a fire lookout at the top of Acker that can be rented from August 1st to November 15th. Please respect any renters that may be sharing the area.
Gear
- A 60-meter rope is recommended for all routes in this area.
- A minimum of 2 ropes per party is encouraged, as pitches will generally average 150 to 200 feet in length.
- All routes are protected with fixed anchors; however you may find it desirable to carry a light rack of cams to supplement the occasional run-out.
- Most routes, except the Peregrine Traverse, will not have chains at belay anchors, so carry extra webbing.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | Open for climbing. |
|---|---|
| Rentals & Guides: |
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| Open Season: | August 1 - December 31 |
| Best Season: | Summer and Fall |
| Restrictions: | Climbing is prohibited from January 1 through July 31. Seasonal restrictions are applied to specific areas on the Umpqua National Forest for natural resource protection, including wildlife protection. These restrictions are utilized to protect certain wildlife species during their breeding cycle. Some species are very susceptible to human disturbance, and even minimal contact or entry into areas utilized for breeding can negatively impact their reproductive effort. For this reason, a seasonal restriction is applied and access into the area is prohibited. The seasonal restriction applied to an area may be lifted if the results of monitoring indicate that keeping the restriction in place is no longer necessary. Rock climbing is one of many activities with the potential to affect local natural resources. A seasonal restriction has been applied in this area to protect wildlife. |
| Closest Towns: |
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| Water: | Not available. Surface water should be treated. |
| Restroom: | No |
General Information
Directions:From Canyonville, Or take West 1st Street and turn onto SE 3rd St/OR-227. Continue to follow OR-227 approximately 23 miles until you reach Tiller.
From Tiller, turn on on Douglas County Road #46 which becomes Fores Service (FS) Raod #28 for 18.5 miles to Buckeye Creek FS Road #29. Follow FS Road #29 for 7 miles to the junction with FS Road #2838. Turn left (north) onto FS Road #2338 for 1.5 miles to the FS Road #2838-950. Follow the FS #2838-950 for 1.5 miles to the trailhead.
The Acker Rock Trail #1585 is a .4 mile, and requires a moderate to steep hike to reach the lookout. The FS #2828-950 road is closed with a locked gate. Please check with the Ranger Station to ensure the lookout is open. This site is closed to recreation use from January 1-June 30.
General Notes:
- Note that climbing in August can be very warm on Acker, bring lots of water.
- Eriogonum villosissimum, a rare buckwheat flower found only on Acker Rock. It is present on just about every route on Acker Rock but is easily recognized and avoided.
Activities
Rock Climbing
- A popular rock climbing destination, Acker Rock offers rock climbing opportunities from the easy to difficult range.