E. Five Ten Wall - Steady Climbing at Wild Iris, Wyoming

Lander, Wyoming
sport climbing
5.10 climbs
single pitch
well-bolted
Wyoming climbing
high elevation
Length: 60-80 ft
Type: Sport
Stars
Pitches
single pitch
Protected Place
Wild Iris climbing area
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"E. Five Ten Wall offers climbers a consistent challenge at Wild Iris near Lander, Wyoming, with most routes in the 5.10 range. This approachable wall balances moderate difficulty with solid rock and straightforward access, making it a destination for climbers looking to refine technique while enjoying the expansive mountain setting."

E. Five Ten Wall - Steady Climbing at Wild Iris, Wyoming

E. Five Ten Wall sits comfortably within the rugged Wild Iris crag complex near Lander, Wyoming, an area known for its clean lines and reliable climbing. This wall attracts climbers seeking consistent challenges—most of its routes hover around the 5.10 difficulty range, making it an ideal destination for climbers looking to sharpen their technique without stepping too far outside the comfort zone. While nearly everything leans toward 5.10, there are a few exceptions including approachable 5.6 climbs and some tougher 5.11 options to test your limits.

Approaching E. Five Ten Wall is straightforward but rewarding. From the nearby Cowboy Poetry area, a cliffside trail follows the crag band, gently rising to meet the wall. Alternatively, you can choose the less-traveled access trail branched off the main path, clearly marked with signage. The setting sits at just over 8,800 feet in elevation, offering cool mountain air and a chance to climb surrounded by the broad Wyoming sky. The approach is manageable, allowing focus to be placed squarely on climbing rather than scrambling or bushwhacking.

The wall itself is sandwiched between the challenging faces of Rode Hard and Hot Tamale, making this spot a balanced option for those who want a consistent 5.10 experience but remain close to more demanding routes for a next-level pick. Rock quality is solid and typical of Wild Iris’s volcanic origin, providing firm holds and friction that withstand Wyoming’s variable conditions.

Classic routes here offer a satisfying blend of features and intervals to rest. Ryobi Jr., Ryobi Ranger, and Indian Country each stand out as 5.10a routes with solid star ratings, offering climbs that feel rewarding and well-protected. For something a little steeper, try Latex Cowboy at 5.10b or Wild Horses Keep Dragging Me Away, a 5.10c variation for those ready to push harder. If your eye is on 5.11 territory, Ryobi Wrangler and Pistol Pete bring more technical moves into view, while Big Country, rated 5.11, carries the highest praise among them all — a standout climb known for its quality and flow.

Wild Iris’s high desert climate means weather can shift quickly, but summer and early fall offer the best windows for climbing. Morning and afternoon shade vary by wall aspect, and E. Five Ten Wall’s orientation ensures comfortable climbing in warmer months without baking in the sun all day. Pack layers for sudden shifts and prepare for crisp evening air.

Descent from the wall is simple and straightforward, typically a walk or scramble down established paths back to the trailhead. There are no complex rappels needed here, making it beginner-friendly in terms of approach and exit.

Gear wise, climbers can expect mostly sport routes with well-maintained bolts, so a standard sport rack with quickdraws will serve you well. Traditional gear isn’t necessary here, but bringing along a rack for nearby walls—if you're exploring Wild Iris more broadly—is advisable. Good climbing shoes and a chalk bag are essentials. Helmets are recommended since rockfall can occasionally be a concern on sunny, thawing days.

E. Five Ten Wall offers a focused experience for climbers who appreciate solid, challenging climbs without a wide spread of grades. Its proximity to harder terrain means climbers can mix and match their adventure, balancing steady progress on familiar climbs with the option to step up when ready. Whether it’s your first Wild Iris visit or part of a larger climbing excursion, this wall provides a dependable platform for both honing skills and enjoying Wyoming’s dramatic outdoor playground.

Classic climbs like Ryobi Jr., Ryobi Ranger, Indian Country, and Big Country serve as benchmarks, lending texture and variety within a consistent grade range. This isn’t a wall for extremes, but rather one for dedicated enthusiasts who value technique, flow, and moderate challenge paired with the stark beauty of Wyoming’s high country.

Approach, moderate elevation gain, and a reliable route selection make E. Five Ten Wall an inviting stop that fits neatly into any Wild Iris climbing itinerary.

Climber Safety

Though generally well-protected and straightforward to navigate, keep an eye out for loose rock and occasional rockfall, especially during thaw cycles. Always wear a helmet and respect changing weather at elevation.

Area Details

TypeSport
Pitchessingle pitch
Length60-80 feet

Local Tips

Access the wall via a clearly marked side trail off the main Wild Iris footpath for a shorter approach.

Morning or late afternoon offers the best climbing conditions to avoid sun exposure on the wall.

Bring layered clothing — temperatures can change rapidly at 8,850 ft elevation.

The descent is a straightforward walk off the trail; no technical rappel equipment needed.

Area Rating

Quality
Consensus:E. Five Ten Wall holds a reputation for steady, approachable climbing predominantly in the 5.10 range, with a few routes reaching into the 5.11 grade. The climbs here tend to feel fairly true to grade — neither unusually soft nor harsh — making it a dependable training ground for intermediate climbers. Compared to other Wild Iris walls that range widely in difficulty, E. Five Ten Wall offers a narrowly focused challenge that emphasizes technical movement and consistent protection.

Gear Requirements

Routes on E. Five Ten Wall are primarily sport with well-maintained bolts. A standard sport rack with quickdraws covers your gear needs here. Helmets are advised due to occasional rockfall, and climbing shoes and chalk are essential. No traditional gear required for these climbs but useful if exploring adjacent walls.

Share Your Ascent

Upload your photos of and earn up to 3000 $ADVCOIN tokens.

Tags

sport climbing
5.10 climbs
single pitch
well-bolted
Wyoming climbing
high elevation