City of Rocks National Reserve

Stripe Rock in the park.

Window Arch.

A climber ascends one of the park's many unique formations.

It's rock climbing central at the City of Rocks National Reserve, which rivals Yosemite National Park as the technical climbing destination of the West.

Bisected by the scenic California Trail, this 14,407-acre reserve contains massive granite spires and sculptured rock formations that yield about 500 climbing routes. Rabbit Rock, Bread Loaves and Morning Glory Spire provide climbs of varying difficulty.

The area was a favorite encampment for pioneers traveling in covered wagon trains. Many wrote their names in axle grease on the rock faces and many of their signatures are visible today.

Many opportunities for hiking abound around the rock formations or in the canyons. There are about 20 miles of developed hiking trails; mountain biking and horsebacking riding are permitted on some sections. Additional hiking opportunities exist in the adjacent Sawtooth National Forest.

Camping is permitted in 64 primitive sites scattered along the reserve's main roads. Free permits are required for wilderness camping.