The Maze, also known as Amaze-ing, waits on the outer edges of the legendary Vedauwoo landscape, promising climbers both adventure and intrigue. Tucked away from the central bustle, this outlying crag offers an immersive experience for those willing to make the journey, rewarding explorers with an intricate network of chimneys and corridors that more than live up to its name.

Approaching the Maze is the beginning of the adventure. Given the closure of Road 700B to vehicles—thanks to evolving Forest Service regulations—visitors park near the gate and transition to a rolling hike across windswept terrain. Expect about 20 to 25 minutes of foot travel, where the Vedauwoo high plains gradually unfold, dotted by granite boulders that hint at the climbing challenges ahead. The route is plainly defined—even those new to this patchwork of foothills and open meadows will quickly spot the old roads and trails. One option climbs gently northward before a westward bend near a fence; another winds west across granite-blocked meadows aiming toward the imposing shape of the Maze. Whichever path you choose, anticipation builds with each step, especially as the unique formation rears up from the valley, flanked by Crow Creek and crowned at nearly 7,900 feet.

The climbing itself is character-driven: Most of the routes are single pitch, blending elements of exploration and physicality. True to its nickname, the Maze’s network of stone corridors and hidden chimneys beckon those who appreciate movement through tight, twisty granite passages. This is terrain where methodical technique can pay off as much as muscle. Amidst the jumble of granite lies a collection of standouts, like Short Stuff (5.6) and Mirror Images (5.6) for those seeking approachable challenges, as well as Sweet Nothings (5.7) and Stepford Wives (5.8) for climbers ready to turn up the intensity. For those pursuing the higher grades, The Convict (5.9), Conjugal Visit (5.10a), and Befuddled (5.10b) promise elevated exposure and memorable sequences.

Despite a solid collection of moderate classics, what truly elevates Amaze-ing is its setting. With the Vedauwoo wilderness providing solitude and expansive views, climbers find themselves away from the main crowds—breathing the brisk air, hearing only the crunch of gravel or distant wind. The feeling is one of discovery; there’s a practical joy in moving between sunlit slabs and shaded corridors, in picking out lines whose starts are often concealed within the jumble of granite. The altitude keeps temperatures pleasant in the prime climbing months of late spring through fall—and shifting light across the bouldery landscape gives every session its own atmosphere.

Approach conditions reflect the ruggedness of the site. Trails can be faint in stretches; a keen eye for cairns and terrain features is essential. Occasional downed trees, cattle fences, and curious arrangements of boulders punctuate the walk in. Once at the Maze, look for corridors and hidden chimneys starting deeper within the rock, truly earning the area's reputation for secretive passageways. While there is no shortage of terrain to challenge experienced trad climbers, the variety means newer outdoor leaders can find solid lines to practice essential skills in a high-plains environment distinct from the main Vedauwoo domes.

While anchors and descent are generally straightforward with walk-offs and standard raps, always evaluate fixed hardware for age and integrity; this is an evolving area where attentive risk management matters. The dynamic nature of the Maze—routes sneaking through cracks, transitions between sunny exposures and cool, shaded pockets—means climbers should pack for fast-changing mountain weather and carry all necessary water, as amenities are nonexistent on site.

The Maze is more than just a collection of single pitches—it's an invitation to explore. Whether you’re drawn by the promise of unusual routes, solitude away from the trailhead crowds, or the playful navigation demanded by this labyrinth of stone, Amaze-ing rewards with a rare blend of character, challenge, and Wyoming high-country beauty.