The Williamson River Cliffs present a unique climbing destination east of US Highway 97, tucked between Diamond Lake Junction and Klamath Falls, Idaho. Dominated by vertical columns of dark basalt rising between 30 and 60 feet, this south-facing crag serves as a quiet roadside sanctuary for climbers who appreciate traditional climbing with an emphasis on clean, well-protected leads and accessible top-rope options. Here, the climbs echo decades of history stretching back to the early 1970s, with some routes likely older, inviting careful respect for the legacy of the first ascensionists. Bolting is scarce and fixed anchors are limited, reinforcing a commitment to traditional ethics and a raw climbing experience where skillful gear placements are rewarded.

Approaching these cliffs, you’ll find yourself tracing the route along FS-9730, a forest service road branching north of the Collier State Park Rest Area. The journey progresses past the serene Williamson River Campgrounds, with the cliffs coming into clear view as the road nears a gravel turnout roughly 2.5 miles in. This established parking area serves as the gateway, and from here a brief but engaging quarter-mile trail climbs steadily through open brush and forest patches to the amphitheater-like base of the 1st Wall—home of popular climbs like “Boner.” Follow ribbons and painted arrows on boulders to stay oriented through the sometimes dense scrub.

The rock itself offers varied climbing, mostly on classic traditional routes with a sprinkling of sport climbs and top-roping spots. The columnar basalt creates sharp features and cracks that demand precise footwork and confident gear placement, rewarding climbers ranging from beginners to seasoned veterans. While technical grades range up to about 5.10a, many routes hover around the moderate 5.6 to 5.9 range, striking an inviting balance for those building trad skills. Some standout classics include “Schoolhouse” (5.4), the fun and accessible “Ajax” (5.6), and more challenging lines like “Cam’s Jams” (5.8) and “Huggy Bear” (5.10a). Each has drawn repeated praise for the quality of movement and solid protection.

Beyond the rock, the setting amplifies the allure. From the summits of the 1st Wall and the Elephant Wall, climbers are treated to panoramic views over the Klamath Basin’s distinct landscape and the pristine ribbon of the Williamson River below. Distant towering peaks such as Mt. Shasta and Mt. McLoughlin punctuate the skyline, a constant reminder of the wild and varied terrain that surrounds this tucked-away spot. However, parts of the cliffs, especially the "2nd Wall," are off-limits to protect significant Native American cultural sites. Visitors must respect these protected zones by avoiding top-roping or topping out on those routes.

Climbing here calls for a mindset grounded in low-impact ethics. With an emphasis on traditional climbing, gear to carry includes a well-rounded rack suited for placing cams and nuts in basalt cracks. Fixed gear exists but is limited; new bolts are discouraged to maintain the area’s traditional character and respect for first ascensionists’ work. Always assess anchors and protection carefully, as rock can show signs of weathering or loose blocks. Collaboration with local climbing groups is recommended to stay informed about rock stability and access updates.

The area rewards those who plan well. Access trails are reasonably short though brush can be thick in places, so wear good approach shoes and take care to stay on marked paths to help preserve sensitive areas. Parking near the lower turnout is abundant and preferred to protect restricted lots and nearby cultural sites. The south-facing cliffs soak up the sun, making spring through early fall the best climbing season, while summer heat can be intense mid-day. Weather forecasts for nearby Spring Creek Recreation Site and Klamath Falls should be reviewed before setting out to avoid surprises.

Descents from the routes are typically a short walk down or carefully downclimbed, with no technical rappels generally required. Be mindful to leave no trace—pack out all waste and respect this rugged pocket of Idaho that offers an authentic, moderate trad climbing experience shaped by history, nature, and local stewardship. Williamson River Cliffs are a solid destination for climbers eager to blend straightforward access with thoughtful adventure and a glimpse of Oregon’s overlooked climbing heritage just east of the Cascades.