Climbing Ashland OR

Emigrant Lake

Penned in between the Cascade and Siskiyou ranges in the south end of the Rogue Valley, the sandstone cliffs at Emigrant Lake offer top roping, sport and traditional rock climbing just fifteen minutes from downtown Ashland. The crag is small and tucked away, with routes ranging 30 to 80 feet high. Top access is easy making it a great beginner area and stomping ground for many local climbers. The crag is southwest facing and it receives direct sunlight much of the day making it the best winter climbing destination in the valley.

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Directions: From downtown Ashland, head southeast on Siskiyou Blvd. Take a left onto Ashland Street and follow it past the freeway entrances and curve to the right (Ashland St. becomes OR-66/Greensprings Hwy). Turn left onto Emigrant Lake Road. Jackson County Parks and Recreation manage the climbing area and there is currently a $4 charge per vehicle. Continue past the pay station to the end of the road where the RV campground is. Park at the trailhead and hike for approximately a half mile to the crag.

Greensprings Butte

Up the historic Highway 66, Greensprings Butte offers fun rock climbing on basalt columns in a beautiful forest setting. Greensprings has routes to 90 feet and routes range from 5.6 through 5.12. Top access is easy though climbers should exercise caution due to loose scree at the top and some anchors require experience to set up.

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Directions: From downtown Ashland, head southeast on Siskiyou Blvd. Take a left onto Ashland Street and follow it past the freeway entrances and curve to the right. Ashland St. then becomes OR-66/Greensprings Hwy. Once you pass the I-5 overpass, follow Highway 66/Greensprings Hwy for about 14 miles to Tyler Creek Road. At this point you will be able to see the columns to your right. Take a right on Tyler Creek Road and follow it for about a quarter mile down a steep hill. You will come to a large pullout with enough room for several cars on your right. The trail is directly across from the pullout and is a steep grade up the hill for about ten minutes to the columns. Generally, the easiest routes are to the left.

Note: Climbing can be dangerous and takes skill and know-how. If you are not an experienced climber, please be sure to climb with an experienced friend or guide.

Outdoor Recreation Safety Note: Please be sure to read our safety note on our Outdoor Recreation home page.