UPDATE 08.27.11: In a recent discussion with the Palisades District Ranger, it was agreed upon that with the removal of 2 routes of concern, the rest of the routes at Palisades would be allowed to stay for now. This decision from the ranger himself is not an official Forest Service announcement. It’s more along the lines of a “good faith agreement”. The 2 routes were taken down as they were very close to the trail and there were repeated requests that climbing not be allowed on that small section of rock due to the possibility of rockfall injuring passerbys. Being able to remedy this at a personal level versus a legal one is very much in climbers favor because the Forest Service could easily throw the book at this and close down every inch of rock to climbing. So, please be aware of the sensitivity of the area and be respectful of others. Don’t do stupid shit.

Location

Make your way to the Palisades Creek trailhead near Swan Valley, ID. The Weeping Cave sector is about 2 mi. from the trailhead on the left and somewhat visible from the trail. The Pines sector is located about 200 yards before reaching the Weeping Cave and on the left too. Just after the dry creek channel with the rock retaining wall held together with chicken wire, when the trail enters the trees, you can follow a faint path up the hillside to the mouth of the Pines Cave.

There are fixed draws on a few routes that have been donated by various individuals and are meant to be permanent fixtures for all to use. Please be respective of these and leave them in place. Plus, a stick clip for the first bolt on a few of the routes is required/recommended.

Also, if you bring dogs of the wandering type, be aware that the trail gets used A LOT by horseback riders so please keep your dogs leashed. Seriously.

Dean Lords on The Basilisk

Must Do’s:

Weeping Cave:

1. Hoss, Moss & Chaos – .13a/b Leftward traversing route in the cave.

2. Sasquatch – .10a/b

3. Qt. of Blood Technique – .12c

 

The Pines

1. Ages of You – .13a

2. Toys in the Attic – .12c