Rock climbing is one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities out there. From the moment you step foot on a rock, it’s clear that this sport requires strength, endurance and courage.
But did you know that rock climbing is also an excellent way to celebrate the holidays? Whether you’re looking for an adventure with friends or want to show your family some love by taking them along for the ride, it’s easy to find ways to make your holiday season even more festive.
Here are a few ways you can incorporate rock climbing into your Christmas bucket list this year:
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Tips and techniques for ice climbing |
| Underrated ice climbing spots in the US |
| Best ice climbing spots for beginners |
| Rock climbing spots to explore during Christmas |
| Unique rock climbing activities for Christmas celebrations |
| Further reading for rock climbing enthusiasts |
| FAQs for rock climbing basics and safety |
Sun Valley
Sun Valley is a ski resort town in the state of Idaho. It’s home to the Sun Valley Resort and one of America’s most popular destinations for rock climbers.
The area has over 300 days of sun annually, making it ideal for spending Christmas outdoors.
Building your skills in ice climbing requires practice and learning from the experts. Check out our ultimate guide to ice climbing in the USA for tips, techniques, and must-visit spots.
Vail, Colorado
It’s the perfect time of year to take a trip to Vail, Colorado. Vail is one of the most popular ski resorts in the United States and has some great options for both beginner and advanced skiers.
They have over 200 miles of groomed trails, giving you plenty of space to explore. If you’re feeling adventurous but aren’t quite ready for an all-day excursion yet, try snowshoeing instead!
You’ll be able to see different parts of town that would be inaccessible during other seasons and make some new friends along the way (if you want them).
Popular Ski Resorts in Vail, Colorado
| Ski Resort Name | Skill Level | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Vail Ski Resort | Beginner to Advanced | 5289 acres of skiable terrain, 31 lifts, and seven bowls |
| Beaver Creek Resort | Intermediate to Advanced | 2700 acres of skiable terrain, 24 lifts, and includes World Cup downhill |
| Breckenridge Ski Resort | Beginner to Advanced | 2908 acres of skiable terrain, 34 lifts, and a lively town |
| Keystone Resort | Beginner to Intermediate | 3148 acres of skiable terrain, 20 lifts, and night skiing |
| Copper Mountain Resort | Intermediate to Advanced | 2465 acres of skiable terrain, 22 lifts, and free snowcat skiing |
This table provides information on popular ski resorts in Vail, Colorado based on skill level and features. Skiers of all levels can find a resort that caters to their abilities and interests.
Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire
Franconia Notch State Park is one of the most popular rock climbing destinations on the East Coast.
While it’s not a place that you would think to go climbing during winter, it is actually a great place to climb in colder months. There are many classic climbs, including Cannon Cliff and Little Haystack Mountain.
The park is located near the White Mountains, which makes it easy for climbers to hop over from New Hampshire into alpine terrain for even more challenging routes.
Exploring unique and less popular ice climbing spots can lead to unforgettable experiences. Discover our list of most underrated ice climbing spots in the US that you might have overlooked.
Ouray Ice Park, Colorado
The Ouray Ice Park is a popular destination for ice climbers and ice enthusiasts in the United States.
While it’s certainly not the closest climbing location to Denver, the drive is reasonable and allows you to explore some beautiful parts of Colorado along the way.
You can expect over 100 routes at an average grade of 5a-7b (5b = 5th grade, 7c = 7th grade). The routes vary from short beginner routes to long advanced ones. Most are about 30-50 meters long and require lots of stamina if you’re going for all 100.
The best time of year is between December 1st through April 15th when there is plenty of snowfall but not too much avalanche risk due to snowpack depth being low enough that you’re visible on steep slopes with little chance of getting buried by avalanche debris as you climb up them!
Ice Climbing Spots in Ouray, Colorado
| Ice Climbing Spot | Skill Level | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Ouray Ice Park | Beginner to Advanced | Over 200 ice and mixed climbs, with 14 kilometers of vertical terrain |
| Camp Bird Road | Intermediate to Advanced | Natural ice climbing on several frozen waterfalls |
| Eureka Canyon | Advanced | Challenging ice, mixed, and alpine climbing with multi-pitch routes |
| Dexter Creek | Intermediate to Advanced | Durable ice and mixed climbing with scenic views |
| Ames Ice Hose | Beginner to Advanced | Short, accessible ice climbs for all skill levels |
This table provides information on the different ice climbing spots in Ouray, Colorado, including skill level and notable features. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn or an experienced climber seeking a challenge, Ouray offers a variety of options for ice climbing enthusiasts.
Smith Rock State Park, Oregon
Smith Rock State Park is a popular destination for rock climbers, and it’s easy to see why. Located in central Oregon, Smith Rock has hundreds of climbing routes that are suitable for beginners as well as experts.
It even has plenty of options for those who want to take their time getting started the park’s website offers classes on everything from belaying (the act of securing someone else while they climb) to rappelling (the act of descending from a height using ropes).
The biggest draw at this park is its sheer number of available routes: more than 500 different climbs await adventurers here!
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, there are plenty of challenging ascents that take you right up next to the canyon rim; if you’re looking for something more sedate but no less beautiful, there are also trails leading through fields full of wildflowers and forested hillsides dotted with waterfalls.
If you visit during springtime (March through May), bring along your camera you’ll definitely want some photos of all those blooms!
If you’re new to ice climbing, it’s important to start with beginner-friendly spots that cater to your level. Learn more about the best ice climbing spots for beginners to kick start your adventure on the ice.
Devils Tower National Monument, Wyoming
Devils Tower National Monument is a monadnock, which means it’s a plug of igneous rock that juts out from a flat area.
It’s also sacred to Native Americans and the first national monument in the United States. Devils Tower was formed about 50 million years ago during volcanic activity.
It’s been the site of many climbing accidents over its 120-year history and is considered by some to be one of America’s most dangerous places for climbers because of its steep edges and sheer drops.
Yosemite National Park, California
Yosemite National Park is located in California, USA and is famous for its waterfalls, granite cliffs, and giant sequoia groves.
Yosemite Valley is the main attraction of the park with hiking trails leading up to rock climbing areas like El Capitan.
This park has everything you could want from an outdoor adventure including a scenic drive through giant sequoia groves as well as hiking trails leading up to rock climbing areas like El Capitan.
Make your Christmas vacation even more exciting by exploring the best rock climbing spots in the US. Check out our list of best rock climbing spots to visit during Christmas and plan a trip that will give you an adrenaline boost.
Washington Pass, Washington
Although this isn’t a popular destination for rock climbers, Washington Pass is a great place to go if you want to spend the holidays with the sport you love.
Located in North Cascades National Park, Washington Pass offers many routes that are perfect for beginners and experts alike.
One of the most famous climbs around Washington Pass is called “The Bowl”—it features an easy walk-up approach (less than five minutes), making it an ideal spot for families with young children.
Experienced climbers will also appreciate how this route offers plenty of challenges throughout its short length (about 60 feet).
Washington Pass is one of America’s most popular destinations for rock climbing but don’t let its popularity stop you from experiencing it!
With so many different types of routes available at different skill levels and lengths, there’s sure to be something here everyone can enjoy during Christmas break!
Rock Climbing Routes at Washington Pass, Washington
| Climbing Route | Skill Level | Length | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Early Winters Spire | Beginner to Advanced | 5.6 – 5.11a | Single-pitch and multi-pitch routes, scenic views |
| Liberty Bell Mountain | Intermediate to Advanced | 5.7 – 5.12c | Multi-pitch routes, granite rock, exposed traverses |
| Silver Star Mountain | Intermediate to Advanced | 5.8 – 5.11c | Multi-pitch routes, alpine ambiance, diverse climbing |
| Cutthroat Wall | Advanced | 5.10a – 5.12a | Single-pitch and multi-pitch routes, challenging routes |
| The Wine Spires | Beginner to Advanced | 5.3 – 5.12a | Single-pitch and multi-pitch routes, moderate to difficult climbing |
This table provides information on the rock climbing routes available at Washington Pass, Washington. From beginner-friendly routes to more challenging climbs, Washington Pass offers a variety of options that cater to different skill levels. Additionally, climbers can enjoy the scenic views and diverse climbing features that make this location unique.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Nevada
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a great place to visit in the winter. It’s located about an hour and a half outside of Las Vegas and is best-known for its hiking trails, which can be accessed by vehicle or on foot.
The area has tons of wildlife, including coyotes, bobcats and rattlesnakes—and if you’re lucky enough to catch it while there’s snow on the ground (like we did!), you’ll witness some beautiful scenes:
Although it’s open year-round, we recommend visiting during the winter months because it not only offers cold weather fun but also unique photographic opportunities with all that white snow!
Take your Christmas celebrations to new heights with our ultimate rock climbing Christmas bucket list. From decorating the Christmas tree on a cliff to climbing with Santa, our list includes unique activities that will make your holiday one to remember.
Joshua Tree National Park, California
Joshua Tree National Park is a great place for rock climbing and has a lot of routes at all levels. It’s also a good place to go for beginners if you are looking for somewhere to start or if you want some easier climbs.
There are many campsites and hotels in the area, so it’s perfect if you want to spend more than one night out there.
If you’re planning on going between December and February, then Joshua Tree is also an ideal winter destination as well!
Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park is located in southwestern Utah and is one of the most visited parks in America.
Zion Canyon, which runs through much of the park, features a variety of trails that are accessible to hikers as well as rock climbers.
There are also several areas where you can camp out in the backcountry if you’re up for an overnight adventure.
Bishop, California
Bishop, California is a small city in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It’s known for its skiing and rock climbing, which are popular activities in the nearby Eastern Sierras and Yosemite National Park. The most famous rock climbs in Bishop include:
- The Nose of El Capitan (5.13a)
- Zodiac (5.10c)
Famous Rock Climbs in Bishop, California
| Climbing Route | Skill Level | Length | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Happy Boulders | Beginner to Advanced | V0 – V14 | Bouldering, granite rock, high friction |
| Tablelands | Intermediate to Advanced | 5.10a – 5.13c | Sport climbing, volcanic rock, steep climbs |
| The Buttermilks | Intermediate to Advanced | V0 – V13 | Bouldering, scenic views, granite boulders |
| Owens River Gorge | Intermediate to Advanced | 5.7 – 5.14c | Sport climbing, volcanic rock, steep walls |
| Wheeler Crest | Advanced | 5.8 – 5.12c | Trad climbing, granite rock, scenic views |
This table provides information on the famous rock climbs in Bishop, California, including skill level, length, and notable features. From bouldering to sport and trad climbing, Bishop offers a range of options for rock climbers of different skill levels. Additionally, climbers can enjoy the scenery and unique rock formations that make this location a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Conclusion
We hope this list of the best places to rock climb in the winter has helped you get started on your own bucket list.
Remember, just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean you can’t go climbing! In fact, it might be even more fun than summertime because there are fewer people around and less traffic on the trails. So pack up those supplies and get ready for an adventure like no other!
Further Reading
If you’re looking for more information about rock climbing, check out these articles:
Gifts for Rock Climbers: This article features unique and practical gift ideas for climbers of all levels.
20 Best Gifts for Climbers: This article offers a list of functional and cool gift ideas for climbers.
Best Gifts for Rock Climbers: This article provides a list of rock climbing gear, accessories, and gadgets that can make the perfect gifts for climbers.
FAQs
What are the basic gear requirements for rock climbing?
The basic gear required for rock climbing includes a harness, rope, carabiners, climbing shoes, and a helmet. Additional gear may be necessary depending on the type of climbing you intend to do, such as trad, sport, or bouldering.
What are the different types of rock climbing?
The three main types of rock climbing are traditional (trad), sport, and bouldering. In trad climbing, climbers place gear to protect themselves as they ascend; in sport climbing, the route is pre-bolted with fixed protection; in bouldering, climbers climb without ropes or harnesses on large boulders or short cliffs.
How do I find climbing partners?
You can find climbing partners through local climbing gyms, online forums, social media groups, and climbing clubs. Joining a climbing organization or group is also a great way to connect with fellow climbers.
How do I learn to be a better climber?
Improving your climbing skills requires practice, training, and guidance from experienced climbers. You can take climbing courses, hire a coach, or find a mentor to help you develop certain skills and techniques.
What safety measures should I follow while rock climbing?
Rock climbing can be dangerous, and it is crucial to follow safety measures to minimize the risks. Always wear a helmet, use proper gear, check your equipment before climbing, communicate with your partner, and follow safety procedures when belaying or climbing. It’s also essential to be aware of the weather, rock conditions, and other potential hazards.
Welcome to my blog! I’m Hellen James, and I’m incredibly passionate about rock climbing, bouldering, ice climbing, and mountaineering. Join me as I embark on thrilling adventures, conquer vertical challenges, and share my experiences and insights with fellow outdoor enthusiasts.