The lower Tieton crags (Royal Columns and the Bend) are closed for raptor nesting beginning February 1 each year. Depending on nest location and success, the closure can be lifted as early as April or as late as July.
BETA PHOTO: Rainbow Rocks from the approach hike.
Description
Rainbow Rocks is the smallest and least-visited of the main Tieton crags. Nevertheless, there's more than enough to keep you busy for a day and a few routes are worth repeat visits. Routes range from 35 to 60 feet on columns that range from steep slabs to gently overhanging. The rock is generally quite good and peppered with horizontal edges. The sport routes get most of the attention, but there are some worthwhile cracks, too.
The crag faces west and is shaded in the morning. Once the summer sun hits it, it becomes a nuclear furnace.
Getting There
Take Highway 12 east or west to "Rimrock Retreat," a small collection of cabins and businesses. The crag is on the hillside to the north above the community.
Park just east of the Trout Lodge Motel and an old gas station on a broad shoulder off the highway, above the river. Cross the highway and intercept an old roadbed. Follow this heading east to a dry wash and a huge chossy boulder. Hike up the wash a bit, then jet left and up the steep open hillside heading toward the crag. A rough trail sometimes appears, only to disappear again. The hike up takes anywhere from 20-40 minutes, depending on the route you take, your shape, and how heavy your pack is.
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