We’ve all grown a bit stir-crazy in the last 12 months, which is why Americans are heading outdoors in record numbers. Thanks largely to COVID-19, everything from RV’ing and camping to hiking and birdwatching has grown in popularity. But, if none of these are disco enough for you, perhaps it’s time to try your hands at something a bit more … exhilarating.
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If you’re adventurous, reasonably fit, and your life insurance policy is up to date, rock climbing could well be for you. Along with the right skills and gear, the only thing left is deciding where to go. Here, we present the best climbing spots in the United States.
The Northeast: The Shawangunks (New York)
Climbing in New York’s ‘Gunks has a long history that dates back to at least the 1930s. The trad climbing under 5.10, in particular, ranks among the best in the United States and, arguably, the world. The road leading up is often clogged and the most popular areas (like the High Exposure buttress) are too. But, trust us, the views of the Catskills make it more than worth the wait and the crowds.
The East: Red River Gorge (Kentucky)
Outside magazine describes it as “clearly created by a benevolent being with a giant ice cream scoop.” It’s a beautiful area in its own right, climbing aside. But for climbers, there’s a dizzying array of sport climbs, trad climbing opportunities, and protected routes to boot. Nearly every inch of the gorge’s sheer rock faces is peppered with iron rails, slopers, pockets, cracks, crevices, jugs, and more — all providing limitless rock climbing opportunities.
The Southwest: Indian Creek (Utah)
The sandstone at Utah’s Indian Creek can be a nightmare for a long list of reasons we won’t go into here. Regardless, there is literally nowhere else on the planet like it for climbers. The topography and geology make it an ideal spot for learning to crack climb. Sure, it’s tough as hell here, but it’s also loads of fun too. Plus, the desert landscape is absolutely stunning because … Utah.
The West: Joshua Tree (California)
Rocks on rocks on rocks on rocks. The sheer size, scale, surfacing, and variety of stacked rocks at “J Tree” is staggering. Climbers certainly aren’t starved for choice here. The climbing — trad, sport, and otherwise — dates back to at least the early 20th century. There’s literally something for every climber of every niche, fitness, and skill level. Did we mention it’s jaw-droppingly beautiful to boot?
The Northwest: Index (Washington)
This is a contentious choice, for sure. But Washington State’s Index offers some of — if not — the best climbing in the country. Climbers will argue over this because some get it, most don’t. The variety here is staggering. It’s perfect for sport, aid, and trad climbers with its long list of faces and cracks, pockets and knobs, edges and jugs, single and multipitch … the list goes on and on. What truly sets it apart, however, is how few people take it seriously. It’s garnered an almost mythical air over the years and many folks stay away because all the reviews seem so hyperbolic. Which is why it remains one of the best-kept not-so-secret rock climbing spots in the United States.