Things to Consider

• Setting: is the climb at altitude? What aspect does the wall face (full sun, entirely shaded)? What type of rock is it?

• Time of year: What season is it? Will it be hot, humid or cold with snow possible? Shorter daylight hours? Are there any additional seasonal closures.

• Difficulty Level: Is the climbing a style that I am familiar with? Every area is nuanced in their exact grade difficulty level. Is my climbing partner familiar with the terrain, fit, and we have established a clear line of communication?

• Duration: How long or involved is the approach and descent of the climb? How many pitches and what length is the average pitch?

• Regulations you might encounter: check our Legislation and Policies and NPS Climbing Management pages. You can connect directly to specific parks that list climbing as an activity via our Where to Climb page.
• Check individual park compendium's: a compilation of special designations, closures, public use limits, permit requirements, and other restrictions imposed under the discretionary authority of the superintendent.

Have a backup plan. Look outside National Parks for other climbing opportunities that may avoid crowding. Sometimes, even when you have planned every detail and taken every precaution, things happen out of your control to change your trip plans. Be it crowded climbs, health issues, weather concerns, or environmental hazards. Do not push through with your original plans if they are no longer a safe course of action. You can always reschedule or plan an alternative activity at the park if these types of situations come up.

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  Types of Climbing

  Because of the variety of natural formations around the world, climbing has been separated into several different sub disciplines.

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  Volunteer Opportunities

  Are you interested in helping to protect America’s natural and cultural resources? Try volunteering!

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  History of Climbing

  A timeline of climbing history within our National Parks.