Indian Ridge

Seasonal raptor closure at Monument Area MORE INFO >>> Rock climbing is not allowed 1/4 mile either side of the Monument due to a nesting pair of Golden Eagles. The birds are using Staender Ridge as a perch therefore it is also within the closure area. The trail which is on the backside of the Monument is open to through traffic, but hiking is not allowed around the cliff faces. Keeping climbing areas open and conserving the climbing environment

Description 

Indian Ridge is the distant skyline visible to the North from various summits in the main Smith Rock area. The Ridge is home to the iconic "Squaw Rock". It has been said that you cannot call your self a true Smith hardman until you have ascended this remote spire.

The routes here are full-on adventure climbs. All routes feature little to no gear (which is good news for the approach hike), an hour-plus walk, and complete solitude.

Getting There 

The quickest, most legal approach seems to be to head over Asterix Pass from the main area, follow the river trail past the Monkey, then up on to the plateau above the rimrock after passing the Kiss of the Lepers cliffs. From here, head NE to the exit of the Canal tunnel, then follow the canal to the next tunnel (under Gunsight rock). Start scrambling up Indian Ridge at this point, aiming for the lowest pinnacle on the ridge, Gunsight rock. Squaw Rock is further on up the ridge. Various lesser spires dot the hill slopes on either side of the ridge. Most of these smaller spires are forgettable, but some offer excellent climbing.

It seems that the entire Indian Ridge area is located on public property, unlike Mendenhall Ridge, so there should not be access issues. However, this is the wild west, so its probably best to keep a low profile just in case.

The Classics