Strawberry Roan stands as the most upstream cliff along the Little Popo Agie River in Wyoming, offering a rugged and remote climbing experience carved by nature’s raw hand. The wall earns its distinctive name from the notable arête, bolted by the renowned Todd Skinner in the early nineties, a feature that embodies the area's pioneer climbing spirit. This south-east facing cliff provides afternoon shade, a welcome relief against the summer sun, and often benefits from afternoon winds that sweep through the exposed rock - an ideal setting to cool off after engaging climbs.

Approaching Strawberry Roan demands respect and preparation. Begin along Limestone Mountain Road to the confluence of Pass Creek with the Little Popo Agie. From there, a necessary ford of Pass Creek or a cautious foot crossing offers access; vehicles often can’t safely cross, especially in spring or early summer when water levels surge. The trail from parking follows a fence line to a large boulder, then ascends through a series of switchbacks for about 20 minutes before arriving at the base of the Roan. The climb base drops away sharply, demanding careful attention during route lowering – routes require a 70 meter rope to reach the ground, as rappel anchors send you roughly 20 feet below starting points.

At an elevation of nearly 7,800 feet, the climbing here blends the air of high desert with pine-scented breezes. The rock faces are steep and bold, with winds often cutting through the cliffside to keep the air fresh and the temperature manageable. Climbers will find the style predominantly sport routes with a handful of classic test pieces, including standouts like All The Pretty Horses (5.13d), Blood Meridian (5.13c), Gunfighter Ballads (5.12c), Hellbound (5.14a), and the namesake Strawberry Roan (5.13c). While route variety may be limited, the quality and steepness of these lines highlight the raw, technical cruxes Wyoming climbing is known for.

Weather can swing swiftly in this part of the Wind River Range corridor, so planning for variable conditions is crucial. Summer afternoons bring both sun and refreshing winds, but spring floods turn the river crossing into a hazardous gamble. The remoteness adds to the sense of adventure and calls for thorough preparation – reliable gear, a plan for the water crossing, and good physical conditioning will help you savor every pitch safely.

The descents demand extra care as well, requiring rappels with longer ropes to make it back to the base. The rock’s angle and the bluff’s undercut sections make single-rope use the standard, so carrying a 70 meter rope is non-negotiable. Beyond the physical challenge, the setting offers scenic solitude and a quiet river rushing below, a perfect balance of exertion and serenity.

In all, Strawberry Roan offers a focused but rewarding climbing experience for those eager to connect with Wyoming’s wild climbing corridors. The technical and high-grade routes attract climbers ready for serious challenges amid a setting that prizes solitude and raw nature over polished crowds. It is an ideal destination for experienced sport climbers looking to test themselves in a place that demands respect and rewards precision. Whether you’re here to try Hellbound’s steep locks or feel the flow on Blood Meridian, the Roan promises a day of engaging moves, crisp mountain air, and a true sense of place in one of Wyoming’s less trodden climbing arenas.