Reynolds Hill - Quiet Cracking Adventures in Wyoming’s Vedauwoo

Laramie, Wyoming
crack climbing
traditional climbing
aspen trees
quiet area
single pitch
moderate approach
Wyoming
Vedauwoo
Length: 50-80 ft
Type: Trad
Stars
Pitches
single pitch
Protected Place
Medicine Bow National Forest
Aspect
South Facing

Overview

"Reynolds Hill offers a quieter climbing experience a few miles from Central Vedauwoo with peaceful meadows and a strong focus on crack climbing. Classic routes like Moor's Crossing and Climb and Punishment provide diverse challenges amid serene aspen stands."

Reynolds Hill - Quiet Cracking Adventures in Wyoming’s Vedauwoo

Reynolds Hill, perched at 8,028 feet just a short drive from the more trafficked Central Vedauwoo, invites climbers into a quieter, more intimate experience with the raw character of Wyoming’s rocky offerings. Unlike its bustling neighbor, this area enjoys tranquil surroundings, framed by serene aspen groves and peaceful meadows that let you breathe deep before and after climbing. The natural setting here removes the distraction of highway noise, making it an ideal spot to unwind and focus on the climb ahead.

Climbing at Reynolds Hill revolves predominantly around crack systems, a hallmark of Vedauwoo’s granite formations. While cracks dominate the walls, intermittent sections of face climbing add variety to the routes, inviting a broad spectrum of climbers to find challenges suited to different skill levels. Here, traditional protection and solid hands-on skills mesh well with the friendly feel of the terrain. Classic routes such as Moor's Crossing (5.7) rely on straightforward crack techniques, perfect for honing fundamental crack climbing skills in a relaxed setting. Meanwhile, climbs like Climb and Punishment (5.9), found tucked in a scenic alcove, showcase the area’s technical edge and provide a highly rated crack experience.

Access is straightforward but requires a bit of navigation and preparation. From the main Vedauwoo turnoff, continue approximately 2.5 miles to Road 700D, then turn left and park near a locked gate. This alteration from older guidebooks means some planning is necessary to avoid surprises. The pleasant 30-minute hike to the cliffs follows an old road and crosses a stream, presenting a pleasant approach through open terrain and shaded patches among the trees. It’s a walk that sets the tone – unhurried and refreshing – allowing climbers to arrive grounded and ready.

Reynolds Hill’s routes span from moderate 5.6 climbs to more physically demanding 5.13 challenges, making it accessible for new climbers with ambitions to grow and for veterans seeking rewarding technical sequences. The rock is typical Vedauwoo granite with solid texture and reliable friction but always demands respect for placement and technique. Because many routes involve crack climbing, climbers should be equipped with a trusted rack of cams and nuts; knowledge of traditional protection is essential here.

Weather in this part of Wyoming shifts through seasonal rhythms where spring and fall offer some of the best climbing windows. Summertime days may heat up, but shaded spots at the base provide refuge to rest and plan your next push. Winters are cold and snowy, so the main season runs from late spring into early fall.

For those who enjoy a day blending climbing with moments of solitude, Reynolds Hill offers a special draw. Unlike many Vedauwoo crags that attract crowds, this area holds a quieter pulse, making it a perfect destination when you want to escape the buzz and dive deep into quality crack lines surrounded by open meadows and stands of aspen. Top routes to consider include Maiden (5.6) for a comfortable introduction, the groove of Labyrinth (5.9), and more challenging stretches like Penis Dimension (5.10c) or The Forever War (5.12), each presenting different strengths and styles of crack climbing.

In terms of descent, approaching from the trail means the climb concludes with a straightforward walk off back to the parking area, avoiding the need for rappels. This ease of exit allows climbers to focus purely on the ascent experience, knowing that their return on foot will be relaxed and clear.

Whether you're after a day of friendly crack routes or ready to push yourself on some of the tougher classics, Reynolds Hill delivers a blend of nature, challenge, and calm. Its peaceful meadows, quiet tree stands, and varied stone provide a welcome counterpoint to the busier trails nearby. Pack your traditional rack, plan for a moderate hike in, and get ready to explore one of Vedauwoo’s more understated yet thoroughly rewarding climbing gems.

Climber Safety

Watch for limited fixed anchors and prepare for traditional protection placement. The descent is straightforward by trail, but always double-check for loose rock in crack features and secure your gear carefully.

Area Details

TypeTrad
Pitchessingle pitch
Length50-80 feet

Local Tips

Park near the locked gate on Road 700D and plan for a 30-minute pleasant hike to the crag.

Check for recent USFS access updates as locked gates may affect approach routes.

Bring a rack emphasizing cams for finger to off-width cracks common here.

Early morning and late afternoon provide shade and cooler temperatures on the mostly east-facing walls.

Area Rating

Quality
Consensus:The grading at Reynolds Hill ranges widely, from relaxed 5.6s to punchy 5.13s. Generally, the ratings feel fairly true to ability level, with many of the crack routes requiring solid technique and patience rather than brute power, making it approachable yet rewarding. Compared to central Vedauwoo, some finds here feel less crowded, adding to the relaxed but focused climb experience.

Gear Requirements

Routes at Reynolds Hill demand a solid rack of traditional gear focused on crack protection. Bring a full set of cams and nuts, as most lines are crack climbs. Fixed gear is rare, so self-protection skills are essential.

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Tags

crack climbing
traditional climbing
aspen trees
quiet area
single pitch
moderate approach
Wyoming
Vedauwoo