The Tailbone | 8b+ Sport route at Smith Rock

United States / Oregon / Deschutes County
8a.nu

Quick Info

Grade 8b+
Type Sport route
Crag Smith Rock
Country United States 🇺🇸
Rock type Volcanic Tuff
History
First ascent Kyle Higby (26th May 2025)
Bolted by Alan Watts (1989)
Recorded repeats 0

Quick Info

Grade 8b+
Type Sport route
Crag Smith Rock
Country United States 🇺🇸
Rock type Volcanic Tuff
History
First ascent Kyle Higby (26th May 2025)
Bolted by Alan Watts (1989)
Recorded repeats 0
Bolted by Alan Watts in 1989. See also The Backbone.
Contributors
22 contributions since 12th January 2026.

Pics + Vids

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Ascents

1 successful ascent recorded.

Climber Style Ascent Date Suggested Grade
First ascent.

A forgotten jewel hiding in plain sight at Smith's premiere crag. This arete will serve to be a true test piece in the style, with quality among the other classics in the park. I'm quite happy and proud to complete Alan's original vision of the backbone start from nearly 40 years ago. It was a truly last day last go effort, which is fitting because this beast is not easily tamed. Get after it! [1]

References

[1] https://www.8a.nu/crags/sportclimbing/united-states/smith-rocks-lvvok/sectors/monkey-face-p1f4g/routes/the-tailbone

[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gxlxhwyNdZQ