| Nestled amidst the mountain peaks of the Albion
Mountain Range lies City of Rocks National Reserve. Embracing a
sagebrush steppe valley, spectacular granite rock formations, pinyon/juniper
tree stands and alpine-like meadows, the reserve presents an inspirational
landscape. Recreational activities include hiking, wildlife viewing,
picnicking, rock climbing, backpacking, Nordic skiing, photography
and horseback riding. The City of Rocks Visitor Center is located
in Almo. An all-weather route through Almo is open year-round. The
road via Oakley is closed during winter months.
Geology
Some of the granitic rock formations here are 2.5 billion years
old. They are some of the oldest formations found in the continental
United States. The fantastic rocks are shaped by weathering. Many
people see animals, faces, or buildings in the rocks. What you see
is limited only by your imagination.
Climbing
City of Rocks is one of the finest granite-crag rock-climbing sites
anywhere. About 700 routes have been described to date. One hundred-to
300-foot spires provide most of the climbing opportunities, although
there are 600-foot spires which provide all-day adventures. Privately
published climbing guides, available for sale at Reserve headquarters,
are the best source of information for the serious climber. Check
at headquarters for climbing restrictions. The City of Rocks area
was an important landmark on the California Trail. Pioneer diaries
from 1840 on describe the rocks in vivid detail as “a city
of tall spires,” “steeple rocks” and a display of
“all manner of fantastic shapes.”
Camping
Camping is available at designated primitive sites. Camping fees
are applicable.
For More Information:
(Source: The Idaho Department of Parks and
Recreation)
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