Summit rock contains some really beautiful views of the San Jose area from the tops of the climbs. It's too bad that the bottoms of the climbs and often the interemediate ledges are filled with trash and broken glass from picnicers and partyers above. So, beware sticking your hands places you haven't seen if you're climbing a route for the first time, especially if it looks like the route hasn't been climbed in a while.
Made of sandstone, the slopey vertical and slab climbs that made up the summit rock are nearly all enjoyable. Some of the rock will crumble, and this isn't an area that should be climbed after a recent rain storm.
Nearly all routes are sport, though there are also few trad routes available.
Summit rock does see some sun in the afternoon, though the lower belay areas are often in the shade.
Getting There
From the main Castle rock gate:Travel north in your car on Skyline Boulevard about a half mile. After passing the Los Altos gun club on the left (the have a large banner-like sign) you will see a large driveway on the right approximately a 1/4 mile later. There is a parking area 100 yards in.
From Skyline Boulevard and Big Basin:Travel south 1.5 miles until you see a large driveway on the left side. Pull in, and park 100 yards later. If you pass the Los Altos gun club on the right, you've gone too far.
From the Summit rock parking lot: Approach time: 10 - 15 minutesFollow the trail out of the end of the parking lot which will wind it's way gently uphill. At the fork, take the left fork (read the sign if you're not sure) and follow it uphill to the rock. From the top of the rock, follow the fence around to the right and downhill. Work your way around the rock following the dirt path.
This route begins below a large rock in the middle of the lower tier of climbing. A fun route that has an overhung section, some neato caves, and also a tough slab section at the top. Falling prior to the first clip is really not a great idea, as the bounce into the glassy sand deck wouldn't be fun. The section after the 2nd bolt is runout, but simple and fun. The crux is getting to the last bolt on a balancy slab. ...[more]
Summit Rock - Castle Rock
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