City of Rocks: Trip Planner
TRAVEL
The City of Rocks is located in South Central Idaho, and while the roads are dirt, they can be negotiated by low clearance vehicles. It is about 5 hours from Jackson to the City, and about 3 hours from Salt Lake. From Jackson, Idaho Falls, Pocatello, and points east, take interstates 86 and 84 to the Declo exit, and head south to route 77. Proceed through Albion and Elba to Almo. From Salt Lake City, take I-15 north to Tremonton, west on I-84, to Sublette exit 245, and west towards Malta, Elba, and Almo.
ACCOMMODATIONS
There are options for renting a cabin or staying at a B&B in Almo. Please contact our office for more information.
The car camping is very pleasant and convenient; one can walk to many climbs from any given campsite. The campsites are dispersed throughout the Reserve, and there are picnic tables and vault toilets. There is only one potable water source in the Reserve; better bring at least a 5 gallon water capacity. It is prudent to reserve campsites 48 hours in advance, especially on weekends. Make reservations weekdays 8:30-5:00 at 866-634-3246, or online: Idaho Parks and Recreation. The camping fees in 2008 are $12.00/one vehicle/night; $5.00/2nd vehicle; plus a $10.00 reservation fee.
AMENITIESThere is a small general store in Almo just down the road; large grocery stores can be found in Burley (an hour away). It is recommended that you do your food shopping in advance. Guidebooks, maps, and information are available at the visitor center in Almo. Cell phones may not work at the climbing area.
WEATHER & CLIMATE
The City of Rocks is a high desert area, with climbs between 6000 -7000 feet in elevation. Thus, spring storms can bring wind, snow or rain, while summer temperatures can be in the 100 degrees F range during hot spells. When packing, please do not omit layers, as weather may change suddenly. The climbs are on a variety of aspects, so one can find or avoid sun as necessary. Summer heat makes hydration a critical issue.
EQUIPMENT FOR THE DAY
Personal Clothing: An assortment of layers is recommended. These should include a warm jacket, a wind/rain coat, long underwear top and bottoms, and a warm hat and gloves. Loose fitting climbing pants to allow for movement, t-shirt, shorts, and a sun hat along with sunscreen and lip balm should be packed as well. A lightweight parka is handy in the spring and fall.
Shoes: Approach shoes or sneakers are necessary for hiking to climbs. Sandals are for camp only; there is cactus around!
Climbing gear/Accessories: If you have a harness, helmet, and shoes please bring them; otherwise we can provide them, along with other necessary equipment such as locking carabiner and belay device. Please bring a day pack, and a small first aid kit. A chalk bag is optional, but is a nice addition especially in hot weather. Please let the office know what you need.
Water/Food: We recommend a 3 liter water capacity for day; if it is summer an additional liter may be needed. Drink mix, such as Gatorade is a good addition and helps with electrolyte balance. Try to prehydrate in camp in the morning. Make sure to bring snack and lunch items to last the whole day, such as energy bars, sandwiches, fruit, nuts, and other snacks. It’s remarkable how hungry one can get from climbing!
CAMPING EQUIPMENT
If you are camping with us, you need to bring the following items: cup, bowl, spoon. sleeping bag & pad, and a headlamp. Anything else of reasonable size that you may like to bring, you can. . .that’s the benefit of car camping! A lawn chair is optional. We will provide the group gear, which is to say the tents, stove & fuel, pots & pans, utensils, food for dinner and breakfast, and five gallon water containers for camp.