The Overlook
The Overlook is a firmly established traditional crag perched high above Pumphouse Wash and the head of Oak Creek Canyon, just south of Flagstaff. Long broken basalt columns line the rim of this area, and the result is a plethora of moderate trad climbs. Folks began exploring these cliffs in the late 1960’s but it wasn't until the middle 70’s that it started to resemble the crag we know today. Moving into the early 80’s the list of first ascentionists reads like a roster of this generation’s best talent. Guys like Scott Baxter, Paul Davidson, Tim and Larry Coats, Lee Dexter, Karl Karlstrom, Steve Grossman, Jim Haisley, Ross Hardwick, Dugald Bremner, John Gault, Mark Force, and John Flemming all opened up classic routes at this crag.
Here are three popular climbing spots in the state:
The Overlook: Located in the Sedona area, The Overlook is a popular spot for trad climbing. The approach route to the climbing area is a short hike from the parking area, and offers stunning views of the surrounding red rock formations. The climbing routes at The Overlook range in difficulty from 5.7 to 5.12, and are mostly trad routes. The coordinates for The Overlook are 34.868897, -111.763064.
The Pit: Located in the Flagstaff area, The Pit is a popular spot for sport climbing. The approach route to the climbing area is a short hike from the parking area, and offers beautiful views of the surrounding forest. The climbing routes at The Pit range in difficulty from 5.6 to 5.12, and are a mix of trad and bolted routes. The coordinates for The Pit are 35.188889, -111.651944.
Priest Draw: Located in the Prescott area, Priest Draw is a popular spot for boulder climbing. The approach route to the climbing area is a moderate hike from the parking area, and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The coordinates for Priest Draw are 34.608333, -112.452222.
The weather in Arizona can vary depending on the location and season. In the summer, temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making it important for climbers to bring plenty of water and sunscreen. In the winter, temperatures can drop below freezing, so it is important to be prepared for cold weather.
The geology of Arizona is diverse and varies depending on the location. The state is home to a variety of rock types, including sandstone, granite, and basalt. The rock formations at The Overlook, The Pit, and Priest Draw are mostly sandstone, which is known for its steep and challenging climbing routes.
In conclusion, The Overlook, The Pit, and Priest Draw are popular rock climbing spots in Arizona. Each location offers a variety of climbing routes, stunning views, and unique geology. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced climber, these locations have something for everyone.
The Pit
Fancifully called Le Petit Verdon, but known fondly to climbers as The Pit, these limestone canyon outcrops are basically Flagstaff's outdoor climbing gym. In a highly concentrated area, there are routes of all difficulties from 5.9 to 5.13, all well-bolted on solid rock. The approach is short and easy to follow--just a quick jaunt across a field, down a few switchbacks, then across the canyon floor and up to the base of the climbs. The best part is that The Pit is only a few minutes' drive from town, so you can get a quick session here almost as easily as you could at the climbing gym, but with all the perks of real sport climbing.
