There’s a certain quiet anticipation that takes hold as you leave the hum of Vedauwoo’s more traveled paths and strike out toward Land of the Rising Moon. Sitting quietly on the back side of Turtle Rock in central Vedauwoo, this climbing enclave greets persistent explorers with seclusion and panoramic views — the distant formations of Jurassic Park, Valley Massif, and the Blair areas stretch beyond the slabby approach. What awaits is an immaculately west- and northwest-facing granite wall, lined exclusively with cracks and marked by the sharp edges of Wyoming wilderness.

The 20-minute approach is an adventure in itself, priming you for the type of day that draws climbers back to Vedauwoo season after season. Park at the Box Canyon trailhead and stride north along the paved path, quickly transitioning onto maintained trails that wind up through wooden staircases and broad boulder fields. Glen Dome soon fills your sightline, with the recognizable cap of Turtle Rock just beyond. The final move requires a break from the main trail — a beeline to the right saddle, up slabs and shifting boulders, until the land unfurls the stark, lichen-free face known as Land of the Rising Moon.

Here, all climbs yield to the art of trad. Bolts are absent, so every move is stitched together with the measured trust that accompanies solid gear. This is not a place for sport climbers seeking clipped protection — it’s pure crack climbing, offering lines that channel the storied difficulty and personality of Vedauwoo granite. The sense of isolation is complete; even on a busy weekend, the land seems to absorb sound, giving each party plenty of room to focus.

Among the area classics, "Straight and Narrow" (5.8) is often your first encounter — its obvious crack draws you straight to the base, perfect for those sharpening their jamming technique or just starting to appreciate Vedauwoo’s style. Just uphill lies "Moontide" and its popular variation, "Moonrise Variation" (5.10d), both delivering steep challenges for those ready to push their limits. Climbing here, it’s clear why these routes are so revered: the rock demands precision while offering all the reward of clean, natural lines.

The showstopper, "Blade Runner" (5.11b), defines this wall for the seasoned trad climber. This thin dihedral stands out for its aesthetic beauty and technical diversity, reminiscent of Eldorado Canyon’s iconic pitches rather than typical Vedauwoo. Two distinct cruxes test your composure — equal doses of problem-solving and tenacity, all while the wind cuts across the Wyoming high country. Other classics — like "Master of Sport" (5.12) — wait quietly for those seeking the sharp end on harder terrain.

In 2007, anchors were upgraded to sturdy Fixe rappel stations atop Blade Runner, Moontide, and Straight and Narrow/Master of Sport. All descents are thoughtfully arranged — with a single 50-meter rope, rappels are straightforward and safe, though watch for shifting conditions on the ledges. The climbs are generally single-pitch, each one feeling like a self-contained adventure, though the exposure and demands of the setting can make even moderate lines feel consequential.

The afternoon sun drapes golden light across the face, bestowing long climbing windows in spring, summer, and fall. The wall’s west and northwest aspect provides welcome shade in the morning and direct sun later in the day — ideal for managing conditions or escaping the wind. With elevations typical of central Vedauwoo, the area is comfortably cool on even the warmest days, though weather can change abruptly, so layer up and bring the essentials.

What sets Land of the Rising Moon apart is its atmosphere. The silence, broken only by the shuffle of gear and the call of a distant raven, gives you time to measure each move. Climbs here are physically demanding and mentally engaging — protection opportunities are excellent, but only for those well-versed in crack gear. This is classic Wyoming granite, with solid placements and a purity of style that rewards confidence and thorough preparation.

At day’s end, it’s easy to linger, catching the last rays over Jurassic Park. Whether you’re ticking off a long-sought classic or discovering a crack line for the first time, Land of the Rising Moon stands as a reminder that adventure is often waiting just beyond the obvious path. Bring your cams, your patience, and your sense of awe — this is Vedauwoo tradition at its finest.