Climbing
Owl Rock Tower
Arches
Overview
THE tower to do in Arches National Park, Owl Rock likely sees more traffic than most of the other routes in the park combined. On some weekends, I've seen several groups lined up at the base waiting their turn.
Why the appeal? The climbing is fun, and the views spectacular. Though the route climbs a crack, the climbing is more reminiscent of jug-like big hold gym climbing that traditional hand and foot crack climbing. For the rating, it is surprisingly steep, but also surprisingly positive climbing.
This is a route I've done a few times, and never tire of. I know it has been many peoples first desert tower and makes a good one.
Getting There
From the Arches National Park entrance and visitor center, follow the main park road about 9.2 mile to a signed junction to The Windows Section. Go right here, toward The Windows Section, for 1.1 miles to a pullout on the left. This is the Owl Rock pullout, and the trailhead.
Route Description
Rope: A 60 m ( 197 ft. ) rope will get you down in one rappel.
The route climbs the obvious west crack that faces the parking lot. Once at the top, down climb 10' to the anchor just below the summit for the rappel. A single 60 m ( 197 ft. ) rope will get you all the way down from this anchor.
Photos
Videos
Owl Rock 5.8
Maps
12S 626023E 4284153N
38°41'49"N 109°33'03"W
12S 626145E 4284170N
38°41'50"N 109°32'58"W
12S 626249E 4283961N
38°41'43"N 109°32'54"W