On the banks of the Icicle Creek, where smooth-flowing currents mirror the movement and challenge of bouldering itself, sits an inviting and untamed piece of granite: the Jessica Campbell Memorial Boulder. This spot isn’t just another stop on your Leavenworth climbing circuit—it’s an experience, where a handful of moderate and approachable problems are matched by an uncompromising landing and a riverside setting that instantly clears your mind.

Reaching the boulder is half the adventure. From the well-known pullout used for Eightmile Rock, you’ll wind your way around the craggy buttress, letting forest scents and river breeze guide you to a broad dirt road. From here, all that’s left is a brief walk—a minute or so—until the river reappears at your side. The boulder stands out immediately, flanked by two dead trees forming a definitive V and a solitary log pointing the way. There’s no established trail, and a faint cairn marks your crossing point—this area invites a bit of exploration, a sense of discovering something genuinely off the beaten path.

There are only about five main lines here, but each climb asks for your attention—not from sheer height or complexity, but because the landings are studded with uneven rocks, making pad placement an essential part of your session. Even the easy and moderate climbs require focus when topping out. Most days, the boulder’s base is accessible, though seasonal snowmelt can leave water pooled around the bottom in early spring, adding an extra layer of planning and commitment. Bring extra pads if you want to push the relaxed atmosphere toward genuine comfort.

Dirt and moss sometimes coat the holds; it’s what comes with riverside climbing in the Cascades. The more climbers visit, the cleaner and better these problems become—but on any visit, a quick brush-off is worth your time. This isn’t a highly trafficked gym replica. Instead, it’s a place where you’ll often have the whole boulder to yourself with the river as your soundtrack—ideal for relaxed hangs, midday dip breaks, or just decompressing between efforts.

The setting shines, with big sky views through the trees and water never far off. It’s hard to overstate how much the surrounding wildness adds to the session: each move framed by the sound of rapids and a landscape that feels private, even a little wild.

Of the handful of lines, one classic stands above the rest: Unknown V3. This problem blends moderate difficulty with thoughtful movement, and, like the others, the stony landing keeps things exciting. The stars come from those who appreciate a blend of risk, creativity, and setting—it’s not the biggest or most varied boulder in Icicle Creek, but every problem here packs a unique mental edge.

Icicle Creek can present access challenges: be aware of seasonal closures, especially due to raptor nesting. The US Forest Service monitors regularly, with climbing near Bridge Creek Wall closed from January through summer. While Jessica Campbell Memorial Boulder is unaffected, staying aware of shifting guidelines is essential, both for climber’s safety and local wildlife preservation.

At just shy of 2,000 feet elevation, you can expect moderate temps, though mornings in the early season are chilly, and you may be competing with snowmelt for dry shoes and pads. Summer delivers longer, drier days—the prime time to visit. Pads, a sense of adventure, and a careful eye on conditions are the essential kits here.

Ultimately, Jessica Campbell Memorial Boulder is more than the sum of its lines. It’s an escape—a close-to-town yet off-the-radar spot where the climbing, the river, and the wild converge. Pack your gear, grab an extra pad or two, and seek out the V-shaped trees near the water. There’s climbing to be had and a riverside solitude to claim. This is the Leavenworth experience, on your own terms.