The U.S. offers a wide variety of climbing spots that cater to all skill levels, from complete beginners to seasoned pros. Whether you’re looking for sport routes, bouldering, or traditional climbing, these destinations provide something for everyone. Here are the top 10 rock climbing destinations in the U.S., perfect for climbers at any level.
1. Smith Rock, Oregon
Considered the birthplace of American sport climbing, Smith Rock is ideal for both beginners and experts. Beginners can enjoy easier routes like 5 Gallon Buckets, while more advanced climbers can challenge themselves on routes like Monkey Face.
2. Red Rock Canyon, Nevada
Just outside of Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon has climbs for all levels. The area is known for its diverse routes, offering sport climbs, trad routes, and even multi-pitch climbs. Start with beginner-friendly climbs like Panty Wall, and work your way up to the tougher routes like Epinephrine.
3. The New River Gorge, West Virginia
Known for its excellent sport and trad climbing, New River Gorge is a top destination for climbers of all skill levels. With over 1,400 routes, there's something for everyone, from easy crack climbs to steep overhangs. Start with the classic Endless Wall, which offers a variety of grades.
4. Joshua Tree National Park, California
Joshua Tree is famous for its bouldering and traditional climbing routes. While it offers some challenging climbs, it's also a great place for beginners to learn trad skills. Popular routes like Double Cross and Walk on the Wild Side provide options for various skill levels.
5. Indian Creek, Utah
For crack climbing enthusiasts, Indian Creek is a must-visit. Beginners can start on the more moderate cracks like Supercrack or 3AM Crack, while advanced climbers can tackle more difficult lines like Scarface. The stunning desert scenery is an added bonus.
6. Red River Gorge, Kentucky
Known for its steep, pocketed sandstone cliffs, Red River Gorge is home to some of the best sport climbing in the country. While advanced climbers come for the hard overhangs, there are plenty of beginner-friendly routes like Tweakend to enjoy.
7. Bishop, California
Bishop’s high desert setting offers world-class bouldering for all skill levels. The Buttermilks area is famous for its highball problems, but beginners can still find easy boulders and enjoyable problems throughout the field.
8. Devil’s Lake, Wisconsin
This Midwestern gem offers a variety of trad climbing routes, perfect for climbers at all levels. With over 1,600 routes, Devil’s Lake is great for beginners and intermediates alike, with easy access to top-roping and shorter, more approachable routes.
9. Rumney, New Hampshire
If sport climbing is your focus, Rumney is the go-to spot in the Northeast. The area features bolted routes for beginners, like Clip-a-dee-doo-dah, and plenty of harder lines for advanced climbers looking for a challenge.
10. The Gunks, New York
The Shawangunk Ridge, commonly known as "The Gunks," is one of the premier trad climbing areas in the U.S. It’s perfect for climbers of all skill levels, with beginner-friendly multi-pitch routes like Classic and more difficult climbs like Shockley’s Ceiling.
These climbing destinations offer diverse routes for everyone, no matter your skill level. Whether you’re bouldering in Bishop or tackling multi-pitch trad climbs in The Gunks, there’s a destination here for every climber. Pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!