Gallatin Canyon

BETA PHOTO: The east side of Gallatin Canyon from the top of G...

Description 

I first spied the crags of Gallatin Canyon in spring of '02. I was driving up from Jackson, WY with my dad, planning on touring Montana State. After passing through the stretch with the climbing, I didn't even need to see the school- my decision was made! Not really, but I was pretty psyched.
Gallatin Canyon has two distinct areas. Driving S. from Bozeman, you'll first spot the limestone buttresses. There's great sport here (including a south facing winter area called Scorched Earth), as well as some mixed routes.
A couple more miles to the south, you'll spot the main, high-quality gneiss area. On your right, somewhat hidden, sits the Gallatin Tower, with tons of classic routes. The left side is where the majority of the climbing is. This area, with few exceptions, is trad. While you may have to wait in line for a classic route on a weekend in peak season, 9 times out of 10, you won't. High quality lines are everywhere.

Getting There 

From Bozeman, head west for a few minutes to reach US 191. Head south on 191 for 20 or so minutes and you're there. For the Gallatin Tower and the Cube, park in the prominent pullout on the right. For all other areas, continue for another minute or two and cross a bridge. Immediately afterwards, park in a large dirt area next to the river.

Featured Route For Gallatin Canyon

Dogleg Arete 5.12-  Montana : Gallatin Canyon : Canine Cliffs

This route is a series of difficult moves interspersed by decent stances. With the crux coming at the 5th bolt, involving a friction move. ...[more]

Add Photo Photos of Gallatin Canyon

Tick season in Gallatin Canyon- Ben Elias on Spare...	The Throwback, high in the Gallatins...	Ashes of Stone