CLIMBING IN SNOHOMISH COUNTYOPEN UP to Adventure

snohomish.org

EXPERIENCE THE ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME WITHOUT TAKING ONE TO GET HERE.

Snohomish County is in a geographically blessed location in Western Washington, with the Puget Sound on one side of the county, and the Cascade Mountains on the other. Having the Cascade Mountains in your backyard certainly has its advantages, and rock climbing is just one of them! While there are many climbs in the area to challenge the expert climber, there are two climbs that will provide an excellent introduction to the area for those who are less experienced.

For more information on the rock climbing options and conditions in Snohomish County, call the Darrington Ranger Station at 360-436-1155. www.snohomish.org/explore/outdoor-activities/climbing-zip-lines

Climb the Pinnacle at REI Alderwood A freestanding indoor climbing wall. Please call ahead for climbing hours and availability. REI Alderwood has been providing outdoor enthusiasts in the Lynnwood, Washington area with top-brand gear and clothing for camping, climbing, and other pursuits. Classes available each month. Hours M-F 10am-9pm, Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 11am-7pm. Alderwood Mall (425) 640-6200. www.snohomish.org/explore/detail/climb-the-pinnacle-at-rei-alderwood

Vertical World – America’s First Climbing Gym® is a unique training facility with specialized programs for youth and adults. Vertical World opened the very first rock climbing gym in America in 1987 on Elliott Avenue in Seattle. The gym was no more than rocks glued to painted plywood panels. Today, with more advanced facilities in Everett, Washington, Vertical World accommodates a variety of custom group climbing needs, including: birthday parties, school and church groups, corporate events, private parties, and youth camps. They also have a variety of classes for both children and adults of all skill levels. (425) 258-3431.www.snohomish.org/explore/detail/vertical-world

Index Cli� The community of Index, a tiny town on Highway 2, sits at the base of the Index Town Wall, a 500-foot vertical cliff that has become one of the Northwest’s hottest climbing spots and features some of the most technical rock climbing anywhere in Washington State. From Hwy 2 at milepost 35.5, turn north. Drive 1.5 miles to town of Index. Turn left. Drive 0.1 mile. Turn left (south) onto Index Ave/2nd St and drive 0.3 mile. Turn right (south) onto Ave A. Drive 0.5 mile. Turn right into Index climbers' parking lot. www.snohomish.org/explore/detail/index-cliff

Exfoliation Dome About 3-miles south of Darrington on the Mountain Loop Highway (at Clear Creek Road No. 2060), you’ll encounter Exfoliation Dome. Exfoliation Dome is not just a crag, but a mountain peak with no simple route up or down. The main faces on the dome are called Blueberry Hill (facing west) and Witch Doctor Wall (facing east). Witch Doctor Wall is a near vertical cliff, with a 1,100-foot face and an angle of 75 degrees, and has been called “the most difficult 4,000 foot peak in the State of Washington”. However, the West face, Blueberry Hill, is less steep, less vegetated and features several high quality crack and slab/face climbs. www.snohomish.org/explore/detail/exfoliation-dome

VERTICAL WORLD

EXFOLIATION DOME

CLIMB PINNACLE AT REI ALDERWOOD