Rock climbing is one of my favorite outdoor activities, and as a beginner climber, I understand how important it is to choose the right destination. I’ve had the chance to climb at a variety of locations across the USA, and in this blog post, I’m going to share my favorite destinations for beginner climbers. Here we go:
- Joshua Tree National Park, California Joshua Tree National Park is one of my favorite places to climb. The unique granite rock formations and varied climbing routes make it an ideal spot for novice climbers. Bouldering and top-rope climbing are the most popular types of climbing at Joshua Tree, and the park has a number of guide services and climbing schools that can help you get started. I highly recommend taking a lesson or two if you’re new to climbing.
- Smith Rock State Park, Oregon Smith Rock State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in climbing. The towering cliffs and breathtaking scenery make it an unforgettable experience. For beginners, there are plenty of routes to choose from, and the park has a number of guide services and climbing schools to help you get started. I took a guided lesson at Smith Rock, and it was one of the best decisions I made as a beginner climber and in my personal opinion Smith Rock State Park is the most beautiful compared to other climbing destinations I’ve ever found in states.
- Red River Gorge, Kentucky Red River Gorge is a popular destination for climbers of all levels, but it’s particularly well-suited for beginners. The sandstone cliffs and unique rock formations provide a range of options for sport climbing and traditional climbing. There are plenty of guide services and climbing schools in the area to help you get started.
- Garden of the Gods, Colorado Garden of the Gods is a stunning location for climbing. The sandstone formations provide excellent opportunities for top-rope climbing, and there are plenty of routes suitable for beginners. The area has a number of guide services and climbing schools to help you get started, but if you’re feeling adventurous, it’s also possible to rent gear and climb on your own.
- New River Gorge, West Virginia New River Gorge is one of the premier climbing destinations in the eastern United States, and it’s a great spot for beginners. The area offers a range of climbing options, including sport climbing and traditional climbing. Like the other destinations on this list, there are plenty of guide services and climbing schools to help you get started.
- City of Rocks, Idaho City of Rocks is a hidden gem in southern Idaho. The granite rock formations provide excellent opportunities for top-rope climbing, and there are plenty of routes suitable for beginners. The area has a number of guide services and climbing schools to help you get started, but it’s also a great spot to rent gear and climb on your own.
- Seneca Rocks, West Virginia Seneca Rocks is another premier climbing destination in the eastern United States, and it’s a great spot for beginner climbers. The area offers a range of climbing options, including traditional climbing and top-rope climbing. There are plenty of guide services and climbing schools in the area to help you get started, and I highly recommend taking a lesson or two if you’re new to climbing.
In conclusion, there are plenty of great rock climbing destinations in the USA for beginner climbers. These seven locations are some of my personal favorites, and I hope they inspire you to get out there and start climbing! Remember to always climb with a partner and take the necessary safety precautions. And most importantly, have fun! Climbing is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding activity that can help you develop strength, confidence, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. Remember the view at the top is the most amazing and sensational, so see you at the top!