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Chimney Rocks Climbing

Climbing Area Map

Routes in Chimney Rocks

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Yellow Peril: Free standing pillar T 5.8 5b 16 VI- 15 HVS 4c R

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Use onX Backcountry to explore the terrain in 3D, view recent satellite imagery, and more. Now available in onX Backcountry Mobile apps! For more information see this post.

Elevation:	1,138 ft	347 m
GPS:	43.4305, -91.9346 Google Map · Climbing Area Map
Page Views:	4,505 total · 23/month
Shared By:	Tim Olsen on Feb 11, 2010
Admins:	Raud Page Updates (admin only)

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Access Issue: Private property, though in conservation easement. Details

Ask for permission if at all possible. Take care to minimize all impacts in this Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation (INHF) area. See map; inhf.org/destinations/upper…

inhf.org/upper-iowa-river-i…

Description

The Chimney Rocks are treasured, distinctive landmarks perched in ecologically sensitive habitats, on steeply wooded bluffs above a looping bend of the Upper Iowa River. Though frequently viewed from canoes, kayaks and tubes as people float down a river that verges on crowded during warm summer days, they are seldom visited and rarely climbed.

The quality of rock varies in character from delicately dolomitic to friable and frightening. If you can't climb without doing damage, stick to imaginary climbing and reserve the best spots for the raptors.

Getting There

Paddling down the Upper Iowa River from Kendalville would be the most esthetic approach. Or more simply drive to Bluffton, IA and head north about 2 miles on County Hwy W20, aka Bluffton Rd to the intersection with Pine Creek Rd and park. Walk west 100 yards or thereabouts to the bluffs.

You can also preview the Chimney Rocks location by driving back south less than a mile to take the Chimney Rocks Road to the west. After the bridge over the river look up along the bluffs. Return here later for a scenic stroll and cooling dip in the river.