Between the expansive Vedauwoo climbing areas, the Holdout stands as a uniquely shaped jewel — nearly rectangular and distinctly different from its neighbors, the Main Area and the Nautilus. Despite offering fewer routes, its lineup of classic climbs earns it a firm spot on any Vedauwoo itinerary. If your crag days lean toward traditional climbing, with occasional high-grade sport or mixed challenges, this formation delivers a perfect balance of adventure and quality.

The Holdout features strong granite formations sitting at an elevation of 8,258 feet, offering climbers the crisp, dry air of Wyoming’s high country. Whether you’re seeking the midday sun on the southeast faces or the gentle warmth of late afternoon on the northwest, the Holdout allows you to pick your moment. Iconic climbs like Arch Stanton (rated 5.11d), Oslund’s Delight (5.8), and Beefeater (5.10b) offer a spectrum of challenges that are as authentic as they are rewarding. These trad lines celebrate the essence of Vedauwoo’s crack systems and textured walls without overwhelming the climber with sheer volume.

Arriving at the Holdout is straightforward but demands some planning. The easiest approach is via the Vedauwoo campground — park near the main area and walk through, following well-marked trails that weave between campgrounds and forested paths. From the southern edge of the Holdout, you can navigate either down and left to reach the northwest face or head up and right toward the southeast. This variety of approach routes allows you to adapt based on the time of day and preferred terrain.

Weather in this part of southern Wyoming can swing dramatically, but most climbs here enjoy abundant sun, especially on the southeastern slopes. Summer offers prime climbing conditions with mild highs and cool evenings. Spring and fall can also be excellent, though storms roll through fast, so packing a waterproof layer and scouting the forecast helps keep your day on track.

Classics within the Holdout include Oslund’s Delight at a friendly 5.8 rating, perfect for warming up or honing your crack technique. Currey’s Diagonal (5.10b) and Eleven Cent Moon (5.11d) ramp up the difficulty while maintaining quality granite pitches that reward precise footwork and steady gear placements. The northwest side hosts the legendary Beefeater (5.10b), one of those late-day sun climbs where the granite glows warmly and the rhythm of movement carries you upward in smooth flow.

For climbers chasing something steeper, routes like Pipeline (5.12a) and Rejecter Ejector, also known as Arch Stanton, test strength and technique without excessive runouts. The balance of traditional and occasional sport bolts provides a thrilling mix rarely found in one compact area. The rock itself is solid, with clean cracks and pockets—ideal for placing cams and nuts, although careful attention to gear placement is always key.

The Holdout’s vibe feels grounded and respectful — a place where climbers celebrate quiet focus and quality over quantity. Unlike busier crags, here you can savor the natural setting with broad views over the Wyoming pine forests and the distinctive Vedauwoo hoodoos rising in the distance. This is climbing that invites a slower pace: approach with patience, respect the natural anchors, and look up to the timeless granite lines carved by rock and time.

As you plan your visit, remember that the Holdout’s accessibility through the campground trail system means it’s perfect for a half-day or full-day outing. Parking is convenient but can fill up during peak season, so starting early is advisable. Keep a good rack of traditional gear handy, including a range of cams and nuts, plus a helmet and basic trad protection essentials. Although many climbs run single pitch, the varied faces offer plenty of opportunities to link climbs or explore adjacent lines.

Climbers must respect access regulations, staying informed through local ranger updates and Mountain Project’s community alerts. Rock quality is excellent, but as with any outdoor area, be mindful of seasonal weather patterns and potential for loose rock near trails. Descents usually involve straightforward downclimbing or short walk-offs, but keeping an eye on approach trails after rain is prudent.

Ultimately, the Holdout strikes a thoughtful balance between adventure and approachability — a compact granite playground that commands attention not with hype but with substance. Whether you’re unlocking classic cracks or chasing that perfect high-grade sport challenge, this corner of Vedauwoo delivers moments of climbing magic under Wyoming’s big sky.