The Gallstone 5.7-5.12b

Elephant Rock at sunset - The Gallstone is to the left and behind.

City of Rocks is one of the best granite climbing destinations in the US. It is a climber's paradise featuring both sport and traditional routes. There is climbing for everyone: from a beginner to an advanced climber, and there is even 4th class scramble on Bath Rock formation - rebar route for non-climbers. 

City of Rocks is located in south central Idaho nearly on the border with Utah. As the name suggests the climbs are located on numerous granite domes and towers surrounded by high desert landscape. The surrounding area is very rural and reminds us of US from older times. 

Best available guidebook is: City of Rocks: A Climber's Guide by Dave Bingham (7th edition)

The Gallstone is located approximately 100 meters south of Elephant Rock. The crag is located on private property and was just recently opened to public for climbing. There is a nice established approach trail to it. Park at the Elephant Rock parking area, walk past the Elephant Rock climbing and follow a well established trail to the Gallstone formation, which is seen on your approach. 

The Gallstone is a nice escape from the crowds at Elephant Rock.

Directions from the south: Take I-15 north to I-84, Snowville. At Snowville, take exit 5 and go west on SR 30 for 15 miles, cross into Idaho and take 3600 south - it is marked for Almo and City of Rocks. Go west on this road for about 20 miles and follow signs (and visible City of Rocks) on this good dirt road. 

You can also stay on paved road and exit 245 (Sublette), turn left and go west to Malta. From Malta take Hwy 77 to Conner Creek, and Almo. The paved road is longer, but time wise the driving is about the same.

Directions from the north: take I-84 east, exit 216 (Declo), go south of Hwy 77 to Conner Creek Junction, turn right (west) on Hwy 77 Spur to Almo. 

The Gallstone has a few moderate routes on its east face and steep advanced routes on the north. (There is a small corral on its south side). 

Rock Lobster 5.7 * Same start as Conceptual Reality, but as the crack forks follow the right crack past 2 small trees. Gain an easy slab and higher up a wide crack.