Twin Falls and the Snake River Canyon Climbing

Climbing in the Twin Falls area is mainly concentrated in the nearby Snake River Canyon, a scenic and famous gorge initially carved by the Snake River and then substantially deepened and widened by the catastrophic Bonneville Flood about 17,000 years ago. The upper part of the canyon is composed of stacked basalt lava flows and forms the bulk of the area's climbing venues. The lower half of the canyon is made of older rhyolite, a different volcanic rock and one generally not as conducive to good climbing. The few roads descending the canyon from the south side provide access to many of the climbing areas like Dierkes Lake, The Midway, Gawker Wall, Picnic Crag, and Auger Falls. Approaches to crags on the north rim range from dirt road drive-ups to Class 3/4 downclimbs to dedicated rappels.

Rock quality in the Twin Falls region varies but is generally quite good. Routes tend to be vertical (or nearly so) to somewhat overhanging to super steep. Each crag has its own flavor based on the basalt theme but cracks, edges, and pockets are common. Sport climbing and bouldering are the dominant themes but there are a handful of trad lines and some sport lines can be led on trad gear. 

The greatest concentration of crags lies around Dierkes Lake and Shoshone Falls but other area crags are worth visiting and super fun. For those looking for good beginner and family crags, try Auger Falls or The Midway. Those interested in setting up topropes should try Auger Falls, left side of the Alcove at Dierkes Lake, or Canyon View crag (not on MP but in Idaho Underground guidebook). All other areas involve lead climbing.

The Southern Idaho Climbing Coalition (SICC) is the local LCO and does great work on route maintenance, ensuring access, and building our community. Please consider supporting our local climbing businesses, Magic Valley Gear Exchange and Gemstone Climbing Center located downtown. 

For any questions or concerns about existing routes and hardware conditions, or establishing new routes, please reach out to Southern Idaho Climbing Coalition at info@climbsicc.com.