The rocky crag of Bulo Point is a fascinating group of steep bluffs with quality rock climbing opportunities for leading and top-roping from mid-May to late October. Located roughly ten air miles east of Mt. Hood and a few miles south of FS44 this site offers enjoyable climbing from 5.6 to 5.11+. The site is one of the better backcountry climbing crags nestled in a ponderosa pine forest on the upper eastside of the Cascade mountain range.
Although many of the rock climbs are sport routes, a fair selection of routes are traditional natural gear routes. Bring an adequate selection of cams and stoppers if you plan to lead any of the traditional climbs. Most of the climbing routes have fixed belay anchors which can be accessed from above for top-rope purposes.
Some of the high quality rock climbs range from Jet Stream, Cattleguard, Nook & Cranny, Jet Wind, Scene of the Crime, DaKind, Plumbers Crack, etc.
Moderate routes from 5.6 to 5.10 are plentiful, but the cracks tend to be shallow and flared, which can be challenging while placing protection on lead. The Point is a good place suitable for moderate to expert climbers.
Services: Nearest gas station to refill your vehicle is in Dufur, Oregon, or continue to The Dalles to fill 'er up.
Amenities: Dufur has limited options, so its better to drive to The Dalles for groceries, where you will also find a variety of restaurants or fast-food facilities, and pubs.
Camping: Free roadside camping exists throughout the region, so its best to avoid camping on the bluff at the site. Fifteenmile CG is located a few miles south on NF4420. The Pebbleford CG, and Eight Mile Crossing CG both offer low tech campground (pit toilet and firepit) options. Both are located just off NF44 road.
Administrative Agency: This region is managed by the Barlow Ranger District, PO Box 67, Dufur, OR 97021, 503-467-2291. There are no specific permits needed.
Seasonal Factors: The site is located at the 4700' elevation, so best time to climb here is May through October, after the snowpack melts back. The crag is east-facing and nestled nicely in a pine forested setting, yet it can get a bit muggy during the day in mid-summer.
Road access conditions: The last mile of road is non-maintained gravel road with substantial waterbars (and some large stones), which can make travel a bit tricky for low clearance vehicles (but not impossible).
Additional Notes: As with a fair number of climbing sites, bringing pets to this crag is discouraged (see Eastside Climbing chapter Intro).