Castleton Tower, Rock climbing landmark in Castle Valley, United States
Castleton Tower is a sandstone formation in Grand County that rises approximately 400 feet above a cone-shaped base and is visible from many miles away. The tower offers numerous climbing routes of varying difficulty that can be reached from the surrounding valley floor.
The tower was first climbed in 1961 by Layton Kor and Huntley Ingalls, who established the Kor-Ingalls route that remains popular today. This ascent marked the beginning of the formation's reputation as a serious climbing destination in the region.
The tower holds a central place in Utah's climbing world and attracts climbers from across the globe. Many return repeatedly to experience the varied routes and test their abilities on this iconic formation.
The approach to the tower starts from a primitive campground south of the formation and follows a hiking trail that typically takes about one hour. The best climbing conditions occur in spring and fall when temperatures are moderate and direct sun exposure on the rock face is reduced.
During the 1960s and 1970s, two Chevrolet commercials featured a car being transported by helicopter to the summit. These unusual film shoots showcased the vehicle's extreme capabilities in an extraordinary setting.
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