Fun Rock and Prospector are two sport climbing areas that are located off of Highway 20 on the east side of Washington Pass in the North Cascades. Fun Rock is an especially good area for beginners. Climbs can either be set up by lead climbing or by hiking up to the top of the rock where anchors can be set. Routes range from 5.5-5.12, though it is agreed by many advanced climbers that the ratings at Fun Rock are too high and that the climbs are actually easier than what they are rated at. Prospector is a more advanced climbing area, though it still has a wide range of routes. There are some multi-pitch climbs and many more in the area between and around Fun Rock and Prospector.
How to get there:
Both Fun Rock and Prospector are located on Lost River Road, past the Mazama store. Mazama can be reached either by coming from the Seattle area on Highway 20, or by coming from the direction of Omak. There will be a small sign pointing towards Mazama. Mazama is a one store town. After turning off of Highway 20, go about a fourth of a mile to a "T" intersection. At this intersection, turn left onto Lost River Road. Pass the Mazama Store on the right, follow Lost River Road for about 2 and 1/2 miles. There will be a sign on the right side of the road saying "climbing area." Park in the parking lot and walk a hundred yards or so along a dirt trail towards the right. This will take you to Fun Rock.
To get to Prospector, continue down Lost River Road until the road ends and it turns into a dirt road. Stay straight and keep going on this dirt road for about 3-4 miles. Start looking for a small tarn and a trail to your right. Park on the side of the road and take the small trail up the hillside for about 1/4-1/2 mile. The Prospector climbing area looks out over the Methow Valley and up towards the North Cascades. The view is spectacular.
What to Bring:
Bring a harness, climbing shoes, chalk, a rope, quick draws, runners, a belay device, and a runner or daisy chain and a locking carabiner for cleaning anchors. A rack is not necessary at Fun Rock but there are places at Prospector without bolts.
Both of these climbing areas are a lot of fun and offer a variety of climbs. Visit them during the summer months, when the snow has melted: between May and October. Send hard and good luck!
