Top 3 Climbing Destinations

The sport of rock climbing dates back as early as 200 B.C. It’s a pastime that has grown rapidly throughout the world and has even developed into a cultured lifestyle for some. North America is home to some of the best climbing spots our planet has to offer. From Yosemite to Red River Gorge, there are great options for rock climbing all over the country and we are thrilled to familiarize you with our 3 favorite places to get your climb on.

Moab, Utah

Moab is often considered the ultimate desert climbing experience. It has a great assortment of hikes and ascents on the sandstone towers of the Colorado Plateau and has a vast range for beginners, moderate climbers, and committed mountaineers. You can climb roadside or do real adventure climbing. It’s elevation of 4025 ft. make spring and fall the most pleasant times for climbers.  Whether you want a fun and exciting day of rock climbing or are looking to take photos of the stunning red rock landscapes, Moab has what you are looking for.

Red River Gorge, Kentucky

Red River Gorge is one of the highest concentrated areas for superior sport climbing in America. While most climbers visit Red River to test their skills on harder and steeper climbs, there are plenty of exceptional climbs for beginning climbers. In addition to having an amazing climbing experience, one can expect stunning scenery and astonishing camping at Red River Gorge. Neighboring the Red River Gorge is Kentucky's Natural Bridge State Park, which is home to one of the largest natural bridges in the Red River Gorge. This 29,000-acre area is located inside the Daniel Boone National Forest whose prime climbing seasons is spring and fall.

Yosemite National Park, CA

Yosemite is widely seen by many to be the birthplace of modern-day sport climbing in the U.S. The park has over 800 distinguished climbs and features multiple insanely steep walls projecting from the valley’s surface. Don’t be fooled by the legend and history of Yosemite though, there is something for everyone who visits this park. Whether that is climbing for beginners, beautiful camping and hiking, or a swim in the Merced River, you won’t be disappointed with your visit to Yosemite. The park covers an area of 747,956 acres and is almost 95% designated to its wilderness. The park has an elevation range from 2,127 to 13,114 feet and the best times to hike are early spring and fall. 

These are only a few amazing places to go climbing in North America. If you are considering planning a climbing trip, don’t forget to pack your Garmin handheld GPS device or your Garmin fēnix 3 smart watch so you can locate your position quickly and precisely to maintain your location even in heavy cover or in deep canyons. Whether you’re hiking in the deep woods or traversing a steep mountain, you can count on your Garmin GPS to help you find your way when you need it the most. Remember to share your climbing stories and photos with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram by using hashtag #HaveNoLimits.

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