The Top 10 National Parks for Climbing Fanatics
Climbing boulders is more than a sport. It’s about physical endurance, mental strategy, and adrenaline-fueled parkour. Whether you’re the type of person who likes dangling off cliffs or climbing over rugged terrain, the U.S. has some of the most jaw-dropping climbing destinations in the world. National parks all over the country have different landscapes that will challenge beginners and seasoned climbers.
These parks include every kind of climb from sunlit sandstone cliffs to glacier-carved peaks and volcanic crags. Chalk up those hands, tighten your harness, and let’s explore some of the most iconic climbing areas that offer all-out vertical adventures.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite climbing is almost a rite of passage. The park is legendary in the climbing community for its granite giants: El Capitan and Half Dome. From simple bouldering to big-wall technical climbs, there is something for everyone. Climbers come year-round because Yosemite Valley is just so beautiful.
Zion National Park
In Zion, sandstone cliffs meet the sky. Utah’s red and cream rock walls that reach hundreds of feet high are a gem and climbers can scale routes that appear to be pulled from an artist’s imagination. From multi-pitch climbs on challenging terrain to beginner routes, Zion has it all. Don’t forget to look out for desert wildlife as you climb!
Joshua Tree National Park
Known for its weird landscape and iconic trees, Joshua Tree is a paradise for climbers e with bouldering and trad. The park is a climber’s paradise with thousands of climbing routes across its granite formations. The dry, sunny weather makes it a great winter destination, but watch for desert winds… they can sneak up on you!
Rocky Mountain National Park
Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park is the cherry on the proverbial cake. Daunting peaks and mighty alpine walls will challenge climbers while offering an exhilarating climbing experience. While bouldering in Chaos Canyon offers variety, the Diamond on Longs Peak tests strength and stamina. The weather changes quickly so expect that, and bring lots of layers.
Grand Teton National Park
A playground for climbers, the jagged peaks come off of Wyoming and border Grand Teton. Some of them are beginner-friendly, and others are more technical ascents. Jackson Hole and the Snake River below are worth every effort. You’ll want to check out some gorgeous trails while you’re there.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Just outside Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon is like another world. There are trad, sport, and bouldering opportunities for all levels of climbers on a mix of sandstone cliffs. Ranging from short crags to long multi-pitch routes, climbs here are varied. On top of all that, it’s close to Vegas, so you can get a great post-climb meal without any hassle.
Acadia National Park
Maine may not be the first place that comes to mind for climbing, but Acadia will surprise the adventurist with its seaside cliffs and granite walls. Otter Cliffs feature great ocean views with rugged beauty and crisp air. A must-visit for climbers.
Arches National Park
Utah’s Arches is a visually stunning masterpiece of towering sandstone spires and natural arches that climbers fantasize about. You’ll often find yourself climbing through narrow canyons and around wind-sculpted formations. Some areas are restricted due to the preservation of fragile elements but there are many available areas for climbing.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Colorado’s Black Canyon is for climbers and adventurers. The steep walls of this canyon offer some of the most challenging and remote climbing routes in the U.S. You get the reward of climbing in near solitude amidst dramatic, sheer cliffs, but experience and preparation matter.
Mount Rainier National Park
Alpine climbers made Mount Rainier famous for its rugged landscape and glaciated peaks. It’s a bucket list climb for many, but climbing takes technical skill and endurance. Although summiting may not be on your to-do list, the park has many smaller routes and bouldering areas to explore.
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