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Vagmarken Hill Rock Climbing
| Elevation: | 4,173 ft | 1,272 m |
| GPS: |
34.0514, -116.20334 Google Map · Climbing Area Map |
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| Page Views: | 42,024 total · 160/month | |
| Shared By: | C Miller on Feb 6, 2005 | |
| Admins: | Greg Opland, C Miller, Gunkswest, Mike Morley, Adam Stackhouse, Justin Johnsen, Vicki Schwantes, Salamanizer Ski |
Access Issue: Climbing Regulations/Seasonal Raptor Closures Details
Details
1. Vegetation is not allowed to be used as an anchor.
2. Only neutral or rock-colored bolt hangers are allowed. A permit is required to replace or add new bolts: nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/…
Seasonal Closures:
The presence of a nesting owl in very close proximity to a variety of climbing routes, "Right On," "Orange Flake," "Kid Caligula," requires closure until the nest has been abandoned to ensure the protection of the species for the duration of the nesting activities. This closure will be in effect from February 17, 2026 until June 7, 2026; or until the nest has been abandoned.
The presence of a prairie falcon nesting in very close proximity to a variety of climbing routes requires closure of "Fat Freddie’s Cat,” “Freak Brothers Dome,” “The Weenie,” “Pea Brain,” and “The Red Obelisk." This closure will be in effect from February 17, 2026 until June 7, 2026; or until the nest has been abandoned
For a complete list of climbing rules and closures visit: nps.gov/jotr/planyourvisit/…
Description
Vagmarken Hill is the large rocky hillside on the east side of the road between The Negropolis and Quail Springs Picnic Area (Trashcan Rock). Routes are scattered all over the hillside, with most involving quick and easy approaches that get one up above the desert floor and provide a bird's eye view of the surrounding desert.
Most of the routes are located on the Vagmarken Hill - West Face but there are some more obscure routes on the Vagmarken Hill - North Face.
The mostly west-facing aspect of the hillside makes this a good place to find shade in the morning and some sun in the afternoon, although it is fully exposed to the occasional winds. Whether heading in or out of the Park, the short approach times make this an area to check out and enjoy.
Getting There
This is the large rocky hillside 4.9 miles from the Park entrance on the left (east) side of the road. Alternately, it lies 4.0 miles from Hidden Valley Campground if coming from that direction. Several pullouts exist along the road - find the one closest to the portion of the hillside you'll be visiting to cut down on the approach time.
Trails lead across the desert to the base of the hillside, but once on the hillside proper you'll be travelling over rough terrain with the possibility of some scrambling. Approach times vary from 5 to 15 minutes typically.
Classic Climbing Routes at Vagmarken Hill
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