The U.S. is home to some of the most iconic and diverse climbing spots in the world. Whether you're into sport climbing, bouldering, or trad climbing, there's something for everyone. If you're looking to plan your next climbing adventure, here are the best climbing spots you absolutely need to check out this year.
1. Yosemite National Park, California
A mecca for climbers, Yosemite is known for its towering granite walls, including the legendary El Capitan. Whether you're an expert trad climber or just looking to experience world-class routes, this is the place to go. Popular spots include The Nose and Half Dome.
2. Red River Gorge, Kentucky
Famous for its overhung sport climbs and incredible sandstone cliffs, Red River Gorge offers routes for all levels. Its steep and pocketed walls make it a must-visit for sport climbers looking for a challenge.
3. Joshua Tree, California
Joshua Tree's unique rock formations and crack systems offer hundreds of routes, both for bouldering and trad climbing. With year-round climbing conditions, it's a fantastic spot to test your skills in a stunning desert setting.
4. Smith Rock, Oregon
Smith Rock is widely regarded as the birthplace of sport climbing in the U.S. Known for its challenging routes, it offers everything from beginner-friendly climbs to tough multi-pitch routes, with stunning scenery to match.
5. Hueco Tanks, Texas
For bouldering enthusiasts, Hueco Tanks is a bucket-list destination. Famous for its unique rock formations and challenging boulder problems, climbers flock here for its mix of history, culture, and world-class climbs.
6. The New River Gorge, West Virginia
With over 1,400 routes, New River Gorge is a prime destination for sport and trad climbers alike. This area is known for its sandstone cliffs, providing plenty of varied climbing opportunities in an absolutely gorgeous setting.
7. Indian Creek, Utah
For those who love crack climbing, Indian Creek is a paradise. Known for its splitter cracks, this is the ultimate destination for traditional climbers seeking to master technical and challenging cracks.
8. Bishop, California
Bishop is one of the most renowned bouldering areas in the U.S. With famous boulders like the Buttermilks and the Happy Boulders, it’s a must-visit for climbers who love testing their strength and problem-solving skills on beautiful highballs.
9. The Adirondacks, New York
If you're looking for an East Coast adventure, the Adirondacks offer both sport and trad climbing in a picturesque, alpine environment. With over 3,000 routes, you'll find everything from slabs to overhangs, with varying levels of difficulty.
10. Moab, Utah
Moab's desert landscape offers incredible opportunities for crack and multi-pitch climbing. Whether you're scaling the famous sandstone towers like Castleton Tower or exploring the vast cliffs, Moab is a destination that every climber should experience.
These climbing spots are some of the best in the U.S., offering everything from world-famous routes to hidden gems. Wherever you go this year, you're bound to find exciting challenges, stunning landscapes, and memories that will last a lifetime.