Granite columns, some reaching 60 stories tall, loom high above Circle Creek Basin and are popular with climbers. Many of the granitic rock formations that are the outstanding features of the Reserve are over 2.5 billion years old, some of the oldest found in North America. Established in 1988 as a national reserve, City of Rocks encompasses 14,407 acres of land (about one quarter is privately owned) renowned for its scenic, geologic and historic significance. Take a walk to see inscriptions on the spires written in axle grease by pioneers traveling through on the California Trail. There is a visitor center at Almo.
The Park Today
The summer season is upon us. The weather is in the mid 80’s, the park is lush and wildflowers are abundant. Road conditions are good, trails are clear from winter debris, and all campsites are open. Water is available at Bath Rock and Emery Canyon Picnic Area.
Since Memorial Weekend all campsites have been reserved for the weekends. The park highly recommends making a reservation to make sure you have a campsite when you arrive at the park.
Watch for Interpretive schedule of walks, talks, guided tours and Junior Ranger programs posted at Kiosks and Visitor Center. For additional information about programs or events please call the park. City of Rocks and park staff welcomes you to the park.
Nestled amidst the mountain peaks of the Albion Mountain Range lies City of Rocks National Reserve. Embracing a sagebrush steppe valley, spectacular granite rock formations, pinon/juniper tree stands and alpine-like meadows, the reserve presents an inspirational landscape. Recreational activities include hiking, wildlife viewing, picnicking, rock climbing, backpacking, Nordic skiing, photography and horseback riding. The City of Rocks Visitor Center is located in Almo. An all-weather route through Almo is open year-round. The City of Rocks Backcountry Byway through the reserve may become impassable in winter. Check with the park for the most current road conditions.
Geology
Some of the granitic rock formations here are 2.5 billion years old. They are among the oldest formations found in the United States. The fantastic rocks are shaped by weathering. Many people see animals, faces, or buildings in the rocks. What you see is limited only by your imagination.
The image below provides a 360 degree view of the park. Left click to move within the image. Pressing the shift key will allow you to zoom in. Ctrl allows you to zoom out.
Climbing
City of Rocks is one of the finest granite-face-climbing sites anywhere. About 700 routes have been developed to date. One hundred to 300-foot spires provide most of the climbing opportunities, although there are 600-foot spires which provide extended adventures. Privately published climbing guides, available for sale at Reserve headquarters, are the best source of information for the serious climber. Check at headquarters for climbing restrictions. The City of Rocks area was an important landmark on the California Trail. Pioneer diaries from 1843 on describe the rocks in vivid detail as “a city of tall spires,” “steeple rocks” and a display of “all manner of fantastic shapes.”
Camping
Camping is at designated primitive sites.
Additional information about City of Rocks National Reserve, see the National Parks Service website.