San Francisco Bay Area

Most climbs in the area are sandstone. This is a problem after a rainstorm, since the rock is extremely fragile for several days after it gets wet. Given that these areas have high usage, please be considerate of the environment so that all may continue to enjoy these areas. Sadly, garbage is a common sight (left mostly by non-climbers)--if you climb in these areas, be proactive and visible about cleaning up whatever garbage you see, even if it looks like a "losing battle".

Castle Rock	Castle Rock State Park, located on Skyline Boulevard, is a popular climbing area with many short routes on sandstone. A 50m rope is fine for TR'ing most routes. Leading is rare but possible given the easy approach and descent from most climbs. Watch out for poison oak. Jan 1999: Goat Rock is a sunny haven from winter rains. Farewell to Arms: A local classic spits out gym climbers.
Summit Rock	Summit Rock, about a mile north of Castle Rock, is another popular sandstone cliff. It is also a teen drinking hangout at night, so watch out for broken glass all over the base of the climbs. Better yet, take a garbage bag and pack out some trash. April 1999: warm weather thaws out chilled climbers. June 1999: summer crowds and lazy days.
Handley Rock	Mike Arechiga reports... "To find Handley rock. Take 280 to the Edgewood Rd. east. Turn right on Cordilleras. Turn right on Lakeview. Turn right on Sylvan. Turn left on Handley Trail Rd. From there you will see the rock. Happy Climbing" January 2000: Mike takes a day off to go climbing.