White Domes-- West Peak

The west peak as seen from the parking area. The east peak, which is higher, is also visible, and the popular White Domes Loop Trail cuts between the two peaks as it descends to Kaolin Wash. The distinctive pinnacle is not the highpoint, which is a good thing; because the White Domes are in a section of the park that is not open to technical rock climbing, and because almost no one in his/her right mind would try climbing this pinnacle without being roped up, the pinnacle is pretty much unclimbable. This picture shows the sandstone ramps that offer the easiest way (Class 2) to reach the upper sections of the peak, where things get a little narrower and more exposed and where some fun Class 3 and 4 opportunities exist. Another picture shows an alternative, and more challenging, start to the climb. The east peak is the higher of the two White Domes, but the west peak has more exposure and overall is more fun to climb, in my opinion. Better viewed in "Orig." Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada-- April 2009