Cape Disappointment Climbing

A popular campground, this area was formed by the sea. Situated at the mouth of the Columbia River, it is where Lewis and Clark reached the Pacific Ocean. It has a multitude of rock formations, most of which are easily accessible. Some are even in the middle of the camps. The rock formations are mostly sea stacks, cliffs eroded into pillars by crashing waves and wind. However, sediment buildup from the Columbia over the last few hundred years has caused these rocks to now be hundreds of feet inland.

The rock is basalt, and while it is often mossy, there are still several faces clean enough to climb. Lots of highball bouldering can be found here, along with some promising, longer face climbs.

I have rated most of the climbs here with the V rating system, but take all grades with a grain of salt. Many stretch the definition of what can be called a boulder problem. Many are highballs, wander all over, or are easier than the grade (although I tried to be accurate).