"The name is phallic in origin,[2] specifically, the column's [Rooster Rock] original name was 'Cock Rock'. The Chinook Jargon word for the rock was iwash, referring to penis.[3]"

While this doesn't necessarily discredit the story below, it does seem that Manske left out a few details in how the name progressed from its native origins to Chanticleer and Rooster today.

Ken Manske, A Traveler's Guide to the Historic Columbia River Highway

Chanticleer point was named by Mr. & Mrs. A.R. Morgan who purchased the property in 1912. They built an inn on the point with one of the most magnificent views in the world and named it "Chanticleer" after the rooster in the story "Reynard the Fox." The area took on the name of the inn and is still known as Chanticleer Point.

...

The tall, pointed monolith located far below [Chanticleer Point] at water level is known as Rooster Rock after being called "Chanticleer Rock" for several years.

Carl A. Neuburger, A Climbers Guide to the Columbia Gorge

Originally called Woutoulaat ... the crediting of the first ascent of the rock is rather a difficult one. About 1910, a sailor from a Swedish ship undertook the climbing of the rock when challenged by other members of the crew. When nearing the summit he lost his nerve and would neither go further nor back down.

However, he was finally persuaded by companions from below to go onto the summit. He was too frightened by the experience to descend and it was necessary to shoot a line to him before he could be brought down.

"...walk around the south side of the small boat moorage lagoon to access the rock pinnacle which is located on the west side of the lagoon. From the freeway walk north along a nice dirt path that soon angles directly over to the start of the popular South Face [climbing] route. Just before you reach the base of the cliff another steep dirt path wanders directly up to the seldom climbed East Face area."

Please do not attempt to climb the rock unless you are very experienced, have the proper equipment, and know what you are doing.

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