Technical rock climbers travel substantial distances to test their skills on the series of weird rock pinnacles that dominates Menagerie Wilderness. Each is named after a different animal—Roosters Tall, Chicken Rock, Hen Rock, Turkey Monster, and North and South Rabbit Ears are a few examples. Most popular is Rooster Rock, which you can ascend with 5.4 climbing skills (the routes on these stony towers rate to at least 5.9).
This area is used year-round by day-trippers. Elevations range from 1,600 feet to 3,900 feet, with a thick forest of Douglas fir, western hemlock, and western red cedar. Not far north lies Middle Santiam Wilderness.
Two main routes—the Rooster Rock Trail (2.1 miles) and the Trout Creek Trail (3.3 miles)—lead eventually to Rooster Rock. To see the rest of the"menagerie," you'll have to hike cross-country over rugged terrain.
Menagerie Essentials
Size: 4,725 acres.
Year Designated: 1984.
Location: Western Oregon.
Easiest Access: From Sweet Home, take U.S. 20 east approximately 22 miles to Trout Creek Campground and the Trout Creek Trailhead.
Season: Year-round, with spring and fall being most pleasant.
Wilderness Fees/Permits: None.
Maps: A wilderness map that includes Middle Santiam Wilderness is available from the district ranger.
from Away.com
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