Explore Utah

Rock climbing in Utah

With its incredible landscapes and diverse climbing opportunities, Utah is a climber’s paradise. If you are an expert or a novice, want to set out on your own, or want to hire a guide to help you safely explore the state’s best rock climbing locations, Utah is one of the most impressive destinations in the US and the World. So get outside and explore!

Best rock climbing areas in Utah

Utah is a premier destination for rock climbing enthusiasts, offering everything from world-class sandstone walls to challenging alpine routes. Whether you’re a seasoned climber looking for advanced routes or a beginner seeking easier climbs, Utah’s diverse landscapes provide abundant rock climbing opportunities. Here’s a guide to Utah’s best rock climbing areas and links to maps and guides to help you plan your adventure.

Moab

Moab is one of the most famous climbing destinations in the world. It is known for its towering sandstone cliffs, iconic desert spires, and endless crack-climbing opportunities. The rock here is perfect for climbers who love traditional (trad) climbing.

Maple Canyon

Maple Canyon is a sport climber’s paradise with steep walls and abundant routes bolted for lead climbing. The cobblestone conglomerate rock creates a one-of-a-kind climbing experience, with holds embedded in the rock for solid grips.

Little Cottonwood Canyon

Located just minutes from Salt Lake City, Little Cottonwood Canyon offers some of the best granite climbing in the state. It’s famous for its challenging trad routes and boulder problems, with spectacular views of the Wasatch Mountains.

Big Cottonwood Canyon

Big Cottonwood Canyon is another gem on the Wasatch Front. It offers excellent quartzite routes with trad, sport, and multi-pitch options. It’s also a wonderful place for beginners and intermediates to improve their climbing skills.

Joe’s Valley

Joe’s Valley is a bouldering paradise, attracting climbers worldwide with its sandstone boulders scattered throughout the valley. This spot challenges climbers of all skill levels with hundreds of problems ranging from V0 to V14.

American Fork Canyon

American Fork Canyon is famous for its steep limestone sport routes. Many climbs here are well-bolted, and some are overhanging, making it an excellent destination for climbers looking for a challenge.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a bucket-list destination for climbers, especially those who enjoy big wall climbing. The massive sandstone cliffs provide routes that are as challenging as they are rewarding, with stunning views of the canyon below.

Logan Canyon

Logan Canyon is an excellent destination for sport climbers, offering over 400 routes on limestone cliffs. The area is known for its various routes, from beginner-friendly climbs to challenging overhangs, catering to different skill levels.

Provo Canyon

Provo Canyon is famous for ice climbing in the winter months but also offers fantastic sports and trad routes in the warmer seasons. During the winter, frozen waterfalls like Bridal Veil Falls become popular for ice climbers.

Best rock climbing guiding services in Utah

Utah is renowned for its stunning rock climbing destinations, and what better way to explore these breathtaking locations than with the help of experienced guides? Whether a beginner or an experienced climber, numerous guiding services throughout the state can enhance your climbing experience. Here’s a list of Utah’s best rock climbing guiding services, complete with links for more information.

Climb Utah

Climb Utah offers guided climbing trips in many locations throughout Utah, including Moab, Zion’s National Park, and the Wasatch Mountains. They cater to all skill levels and provide custom experiences.

  • Services: Rock climbing, bouldering, and climbing classes.
  • Website: Climb Utah

Moab Adventure Center

This company provides guided climbing trips in the Moab area, including Arches National Park and Castle Valley routes. They offer both beginner and advanced courses, focusing on safety and fun.

Red Desert Adventure

Red Desert Adventure offers guided climbs in Zions National Park, including full-day, half-day, multi-pitch, and family climbing trips.

Wasatch Mountain Guides

This guiding service in Salt Lake City offers instruction for rock climbing, ice climbing, and mountaineering. They specialize in multi-pitch climbs and offer trips suitable for different skill levels.

Adventure Out

Adventure Out provides customized guided climbing experiences in Park City and surrounding areas. Their experienced guides offer instruction tailored to your skill level and preferences.

  • Services: Rock climbing, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities.
  • Website: Adventure Out

Mountain Skills Academy & Adventures

This service in Salt Lake City focuses on climbing education and guided trips throughout Utah’s premier climbing locations. It offers sport, trad, and multi-pitch climbing experiences.

Zion Rock & Mountain Guides

Specializing in climbs within Zion National Park, Zion Rock & Mountain Guides provides guided rock climbing and canyoneering adventures, perfect for those who want to experience Utah’s stunning landscapes.

Black Diamond Equipment

While primarily known for its climbing gear, Black Diamond offers clinics and guided experiences in Salt Lake led by experienced climbers and instructors.

Utah Mountain Adventures

Utah Mountain Adventures provides guided rock climbing experiences in the Wasatch Range and surrounding areas, catering to beginners and experienced climbers.