10/10/2022
The Best Climbing Locations in the World You've Never Heard Of
Climbing has become an increasingly popular sport in recent years, and with good reason; it’s fun, challenging, and rewarding. The options for places to climb are numerous, ranging from your local climbing gym to the world’s greatest climbing locations. We’ve rounded up some of the best climbing locations you’ve probably never heard of and can be found outside the United States so that you can have an adventure this summer!
Rocky Mountain National Park
While you may have heard of Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park for its world-class skiing and beautiful wilderness, did you know it’s also one of America’s premier rock climbing destinations? With over 2,000 climbing routes and a unique mix of limestone and sandstone cliffs, climbers will find a plethora of rock to explore and challenges to tackle. The park is also home to Longs Peak, which at 14,259 feet is considered by many to be one of North America’s most difficult climbs.
Red Rock Canyon
Just outside of Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon is considered by many to be among America’s top climbing destinations. With its high concentration of sandstone walls and abundance of bouldering options, it’s no wonder why—the area offers a lot for climbers with all levels of experience.
Mount Shasta, California
Mount Shasta is one of America's best kept secrets. Located near W**d, California, Mount Shasta boasts ample hiking and climbing opportunities for all experience levels. The peak of Mount Shasta reaches over 14,000 feet, although many choose to begin their journey at around 10,000 feet on Castle Crag. There are also a number of trails that lead you through breathtaking forests as you wind your way up to higher elevations.
Smith Rock, Oregon
Smith Rock State Park is located about 45 minutes outside of Bend, Oregon and is a popular destination for rock climbers. The region has a large selection of climbing routes that range from 5.5 to 5.13 on American’s rating scale (with 5.0 being beginner). They even have free bouldering spots where you can climb with no harness or ropes if you choose.
Joshua Tree National Park
The rock formations in Joshua Tree National Park, Southern California, are stunning to behold. Stretching over 800 square miles of desert landscape is a series of giant granite boulders which jut from sandy ground and comprise some of most interesting climbing routes around. But you don’t need an experienced climber to enjoy them – Joshua Tree has a huge variety of trails for hikers, beginners and experts alike.
Tiger Leaping Gorge, China
The Tiger Leaping Gorge is so dangerous that mountain rescue teams refuse to scale it. The gorge’s most famous resident is a giant granite rock jutting out of a sheer face; it’s called Tiger Leaping Stone, and how you climb it will tell your friends whether you’re a serious climber or not.
El Potrero Chico, Mexico
Famed for its granite cliff formations and sparse plant life, El Potrero Chico is a mecca for climbers. The majority of these ascents happen during fall and winter months. Like Yosemite’s El Capitan, El Potrero Chico is an area where long free-climbing routes are possible (if you have at least five days to spend on them). If you’re short on time, there are plenty of bolted sport climbs that can be conquered in a day or two.
Grampians National Park
Climbers who are searching for amazing climbing, beautiful views, and unique cliff-face challenges will love Grampians National Park. This incredible area is home to some of Australia’s most famous bouldering routes, rock-climbing routes, and indoor climbing walls. One of Grampians’ most popular attractions is its Hall of Mosses—this place is a must for any hiker or climber looking for something off-the-beaten-path.