Rock Climbing in Moab: Your Guide to World-Class Routes!
Moab is a paradise for rock climbers, offering everything from beginner-friendly routes to world-famous, challenging climbs on red sandstone and desert towers.
Popular Rock Climbing Areas in Moab
- Castle Valley
Home to iconic towers like Castleton Tower, the Rectory, and the Priest, Castle Valley is a dream location for climbers seeking stunning desert views. Castleton Tower is one of the most famous multi-pitch routes, with an unforgettable 400-foot ascent. The routes here are generally challenging, so they’re best suited for experienced climbers or those with guides.
- Fisher Towers
The Fisher Towers offer dramatic and unique sandstone formations, including the famous Titan Tower. Known for its steep and challenging routes, this area is recommended for advanced climbers. The climbs are long and demanding, but they offer one-of-a-kind views of the Colorado River and red desert landscapes. - Wall Street
Just off Potash Road, Wall Street is a popular and accessible roadside crag. This area has routes for every skill level, from beginner-friendly routes to more challenging climbs. Wall Street’s easy access and variety make it an ideal spot for new climbers or those looking for a quick afternoon climb. - Indian Creek
Renowned for its world-class crack climbing, Indian Creek is located about an hour from Moab but is worth the trip for serious climbers. The area offers a wide range of cracks, with climbs ranging from moderate to extremely difficult. It’s also a great place to learn crack climbing techniques with a guide or experienced friend. - Kane Springs Canyon (Ice Cream Parlor)
This area offers a good mix of moderate and beginner routes, making it ideal for climbers looking to practice or gain experience. Ice Cream Parlor is a favorite for its shorter approaches and wide variety of routes, which are well-bolted and safe for climbers of all skill levels.
Rock Climbing Guide Service
For those new to climbing or looking to experience Moab’s best routes with local expertise, several guide services offer tailored climbing experiences:
Moab Cliffs and Canyons
Moab Cliffs and Canyons provides a wide variety of guided climbs, from half-day trips to full-day excursions on towers, cracks, and slabs. They cater to all experience levels and are known for their knowledgeable guides and emphasis on safety.
Moab Desert Adventures
This guide service offers climbs on all the iconic routes in Moab, including Castleton Tower, Wall Street, and Indian Creek. Moab Desert Adventures has personalized trips to fit all skill levels, including specialized climbs for advanced climbers.
Red River Adventures
Known for their expertise in both climbing and river guiding, Red River Adventures offers guided climbs for beginners and seasoned climbers alike. They focus on safety, skill-building, and local insight, making them a great option for those new to Moab’s climbing scene.
Peregrine Expeditions
Peregrine Expeditions offers rock climbing and multi-sport adventures for individuals, families, and groups. With guides who are experts in both instruction and local geology, they provide a unique climbing experience with added educational value.
Moab Desert Adventures
This guide service offers climbs on all the iconic routes in Moab, including Castleton Tower, Wall Street, and Indian Creek. Moab Desert Adventures has personalized trips to fit all skill levels, including specialized climbs for advanced climbers.
Red River Adventures
Known for their expertise in both climbing and river guiding, Red River Adventures offers guided climbs for beginners and seasoned climbers alike. They focus on safety, skill-building, and local insight, making them a great option for those new to Moab’s climbing scene.
Peregrine Expeditions
Peregrine Expeditions offers rock climbing and multi-sport adventures for individuals, families, and groups. With guides who are experts in both instruction and local geology, they provide a unique climbing experience with added educational value.
Where to Rent Rock Climbing Equipment in Moab
If you’re not traveling with gear, Moab has several rental shops where you can find top-quality climbing equipment:
- GearHeads Outdoor Store
Located on Main Street, GearHeads offers a full range of climbing gear for rent or purchase, including harnesses, helmets, ropes, and shoes. Known for their knowledgeable staff, they can help with recommendations on the best routes and equipment for your skill level. - Moab Gear Trader
Another great spot on Main Street, Moab Gear Trader offers rental and consignment options, allowing climbers to find both new and used gear at reasonable prices. They stock everything from shoes to helmets and can offer guidance on nearby climbs. - Pagosa Outdoors
While primarily focused on other outdoor sports, Pagosa Outdoors also offers some climbing essentials, including gloves, ropes, and harnesses, along with a friendly staff who can help with questions about local trails and safety.