Five Star Crux

Gothic Rock is a cluster of 350' high towers located in the foothills of Central Oregon (north of Sisters). The tuffaceous complex of rock spires are very infrequently climbed due primarily to the notable chossy friable nature of the rock formation. It may be rated easy, but there ain't nothing pretty about it.

These select photos provide a visual idea of the size and scope of Gothic Rock, just in case you get a wild hair in your nostril and suddenly find yourself driving out that way to climb it.

Directions:

From US Hwy 20 at Indian Ford, drive north around Black Butte, then northeast past Summit Spring and Thorn Spring along Fly Creek on Squaw Back Ridge Road. This road will gradually ascend up into Adler Spring Creek valley passing Adler Springs. Just prior to roads end you will park and walk west 1/2 mile (or drive an AWD vehicle out to the very end of the road) to the crest of Green Ridge and park at a scenic turn-around. Expect about 32 miles total from US Highway 20. The rock spire is visible from roads end. From the parking spot you can hike downhill northwest to the East Face saddle in about 10-minutes.

Note: Full route beta details are available in the NW Oregon Rock guidebook in the Central Oregon chapter.

Scroll down to browse through the Photo Tour of Gothic Rock.

Need to see more photos of it? Gothic Rock - Karl's venture