Continental Ranch is a privately owned property located along the rugged banks of the Pecos River in West Texas. The limestone found here is of significantly higher quality than anywhere else in the region, making it a standout destination for climbers.
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As Rock and Ice Magazine notes, the rock “has been compared to the fabled French cliffs at Céüse.” While all established routes are single-pitch, the cliffs are unusually tall for Texas; with some bluffs reaching up to 300 feet. There is an excess of 200 established rock climbing routes with ratings range from 5.7-5.13. Several routes are long, so bring a 60 or 70-meter rope and always tie knots in the ends. Sport anchors are rare; climbers should be prepared to build their own anchors, then clean and rappel or be lowered.
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The terrain at the ranch is remote, rugged, and largely untouched, creating a truly adventurous climbing experience. This is adventure climbing at its finest. In a state where most land is privately owned, access like this is a rare and valuable opportunity for Texas climbers.
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We are deeply grateful to the landowners for opening the gates of Continental Ranch to the climbing community!​
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​For information on purchasing climbing leases, please contact Heather and Miles Gibbs, Continental Ranch Pecos River Expeditions, LLC at 830-734-2444 or hgibbs2@hotmail.com.​
​Rock Climbing on the Pecos River
Come sample the world-class sport climbing at Continental Ranch, a four-generation privately owned property located along the banks of the Pecos River, 15 miles northwest of Comstock, Texas.
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For nearly 15 years, climbing access at Continental Ranch was closed. The late owners, Marilyn and Howard Hunt, were first approached by a group of geologists and climbers kayaking down the Pecos River who were mapping the region’s limestone cliffs. Prior to that, the rock quality and striations in this area had never been studied. In those early days, climbers including Jamie McNally and Scott Melcer left small fees in a designated box on the property, gaining informal access to the land. This arrangement continued for five to six years, until legal counsel advised the ranch to suspend access due to liability concerns.
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Today, with new-generation ownership and a renewed vision, climbing has returned to the ranch under the formal business entity Continental Ranch Pecos River Expeditions, LLC. With insurance and the ability to partner with other insured outdoor organizations, the ranch is now able to responsibly support a range of recreational activities.
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Climbing at Continental Ranch remains remote and adventurous. It requires careful planning and a high level of self-sufficiency. There is no running water or electricity, and all visitors must follow strict “pack in, pack out” practices. Respecting the land and the landowners' guidelines is essential for a safe and sustainable experience.
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A special thanks goes to Jamie McNally, whose long-standing relationship with the Continental Ranch family was instrumental in reopening access. As one of the first climbers to explore these cliffs, Jamie remained in contact for many years and continually advocated for the incredible opportunity this land represents.
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In addition to climbing, Continental Ranch is also home to Lewis Canyon Petroglyphs, one of the largest known petroglyph sites in North America. The area has been studied by archaeologists and the Rock Art Foundation, and the ranch is currently considering offering guided tours two to four times a year based on interest.
For more information on climbing at the Continental Ranch, check out Rock and Ice Magazine issues #132 and #142 and this short article written by the ranch owners.​
The Access Fund is the national advocacy organization that protects America's climbing and conserves the climbing environment. Founded in 1991, Access Fund is the largest climbing advocacy organization in the U.S. with over 20,000 members, 130 affiliate climbing organizations, and 8 regional offices. Access Fund is an accredited land trust that provides climbing management expertise, stewardship, project-specific funding, land acquisition support, and risk management solutions for landowners.
In Texas, Access Fund works with private landowners to expand climbing opportunities in some of the most unique areas of the state. Access Fund also works with local and state policymakers to protect climbing at some of the most critical areas like the Barton Creek Greenbelt and Hueco Tanks State Park. In 2019, Access Fund successfully lobbied for a bill that provides a liability shield to landowners who allow rock climbing on their property.
​​ACCESS FUND
MISSION:
To support our shared passion for climbing and respect for the places we climb.
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VISION:
A united community of competent climbers and healthy climbing landscapes.
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AUDIENCE:
Everyone who loves climbing.
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CORE VALUES:
Authoritative climbing information, knowledge and resources benefit and inspire us and future generations.
Advocacy and leadership advance our climbing interests and promote conservation. Community and competency strengthen and embolden us to push our limits.
​​​​​AMERICAN ALPINE CLUB
Outpost Wilderness Adventure trips, camps and expeditions are designed to provide high quality, in-depth instruction in a range of outdoor adventure activities, great opportunities for personal growth and lots of fun. We specialize in rock and alpine climbing, mountain biking, backpacking and backcountry travel. OWA is noted as a leader in serious adventure instruction and education for motivated beginners as well as experienced adventurers. We are THE place for focusing on actual skill development while we have a great time, build lasting friendships and help each person grow as an individual.
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Many programs do not require previous experience, but participants should be prepared for an active experience in a relatively remote setting.
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OWA leads the way in Texas climbing adventures and other outdoor education activities, we run a variety of programs for all skill levels in the Lonestar state. From our home base in Dripping Spring, the gateway to hill country adventure!
​​​​​​​​​OUTPOST WILDERNESS ADVENTURE
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