The popular Salmon River Slab is a steep slice of exposed rock bluff located at a small roadside pullout just a few short miles south of the tiny community of Zigzag. The rock climbs here provide a comprehensive cluster of well-bolted sport routes on a smooth flaky rock.
The rock bluff faces west and is shaded during the morning hours. Hot weather days during the summer are a good time to climb here. Afterward you can take advantage of the great Salmon River swimming hole just a few steps across the road from the rock climbing site. You will likely have time to visit another nearby climbing site so hustle on over to French’s Dome for an hour or two of climbing, as well.
There is one book source with directions and beta to this climbing site:
1. Northwest Oregon Rock
Services: The nearest gas station is in Welches, Oregon.
Amenities: Welches has a grocery store, several outdoor sports shops (skiing oriented), golf course, and a resort. Rhododendron has a grocery store, and a fast-food eatery (DQ). If you drive to Sandy, Oregon you can find several higher-end exotic restaurants.
Camping or Lodging: McNeil Campground is a popular fee camping site located on NF1825 (toilet, firepit). Some free car camping spots exist on side roads like NF18, and NF1825 a few miles south of French's Dome. Various lodging facilities exist in Welches (resort), in Sandy, and in Government Camp. Bed & Breakfast arrangements do exist in various locales along the U.S. 26 highway corridor (check the internet).
Administrative Agency: This forest division is managed by Zigzag Ranger District, 70220 E. Hwy 26, Zigzag, OR 97049.
Seasonal Factors: The site is at the 2,100' elevation, and is accessible from May through October (minus heavy rainy days in early or late season). The pinnacle is well secluded deep in a forested canopy that holds humidity well on cold damp days, lengthening the 'drying out' time factor early in the season.
Climbing Precautions: The Northwest Forest parking pass is required when parking your vehicle in this area.
Road access conditions: Paved road, and open most of the year.