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The Thumb Rock Climbing

Climbing Area Map

Routes in The Thumb

L › R R › L A › Z

In Memoriam of a Town T 5.8 5b 16 VI- 15 HVS 4c

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Elevation:	4,352 ft
GPS:	32.355, -110.912 Google Map · Climbing Area Map
Page Views:	904 total · 54/month
Shared By:	Dj telle on Sep 7, 2019
Admins:	Greg Opland, Luke Bertelsen, JJ Schlick, Brian Boyd Page Updates (admin only)

Access Issue: Fire Closure Details

The Forest Service as closed all areas in Mount Lemmon until November 1, 2020 because of recent forest fire activity. Climbing is not permitted at this time.

Description

Rectangular formation seen from almost anywhere in the city of Tucson. It resembles an ancient desert tower but without the sandstone. The summit is free standing making it an adventurous ascent from either side. The most popular route is called “ In Memoriam of a town” and also the only one listed in the Backcountry Book by Bob Kerry.
It seems not many people climb around these areas, but there are those who seek these far away summits in the Catalinas. To put this more in perspective, Steve Grossman ( local old skool hardman) was up there running it out on old gear / homemade bolts and pitons during the 1970’s.

Getting There

Park at finger rock canyon parking lot. Hike the finger rock trail for .5 miles and start contouring the slopes to gain the main drainage for The Thumb. You may have to cross one or two smaller canyons which will deposit you near the Campbell cliffs area. When you’re in the main canyon, hike and bushwhack to the base.
Approach can take anywhere from 2.5/4 hours