Rock Climbing
It’s not surprising that Wyoming, a state known for otherworldly rock formations like Devils Tower and Vedauwoo, draws rock climbers from near and far. So take advantage of the geological wonders at the Wyoming climbing sites listed below, just a few of many located throughout the rock-strewn state.
Never scaled a boulder before? Don’t fret, Wyoming’s climbing guides will provide you with the proper instruction and equipment to get you comfortably off the ground in no time. Find rock climbing guides in Wyoming.
Devils Tower National Monument
Nearest city: Hulett
Average difficulty of routes: Class 5.6 to 5.13
Wyoming’s first national monument is a must for lovers of classic crack climbing. Hundreds of parallel cracks divide Devils Tower into hexagonal columns, and cracks can be up to 400 feet long and vary considerably in width. There is pretty much a crack every 5–10 feet, and they usually run perfectly up and down, which can help reduce rope drag.
Insider tip: All climbers must register for free with park authorities and check in after their climb. The tower closes during the June out of respect for American Indian traditional cultural activities that occur during the month.
Vedauwoo
Nearest city: Laramie or Cheyenne
Average difficulty of routes: Class 5.6 to 5.13
Known to the Arapaho Indians as “Land of the Earthborn Spirit,” these rock formations between Cheyenne and Laramie are rumored to boast more than 700 climbs. While the site is popular with dexterous crack (traditional or “trad”) climbers, less audacious visitors can choose from a mix of bouldering and sport climbing.
Insider tip: Vedauwoo’s climbing season stretches from mid-April to mid-October. You can also camp in the Vedauwoo Campground surrounding the rock formation’s boulders, slabs and cliffs.
Sinks Canyon
Nearest city: Lander
Average difficulty of routes: Class 5.6 to 5.14
Sinks Canyon is located near the super climber-friendly town of Lander, which hosts an annual International Climbers’ Festival in July. Sinks Canyon’s holey sandstone and granite walls are ideal for sports climbing. Mountaineers have reported more than 300 climbs in the area for varying abilities. Wind River Climbing Guides are available for guided sport climbing lessons.
Insider tip: For scenic sports climbing, head to Wild Iris at Limestone Mountain, Located just 24-miles southwest of Lander, climbers dig Wild Iris’ white limestone pockets.
Ten Sleep Canyon
Nearest city: Ten Sleep
Average difficulty of routes: Class 5.6 to 5.14
Just 6 miles east of the tiny ranching town of Ten Sleep, this canyon’s more than 800 sport-climbing routes help support its title as one of the nation’s top summer climbing destinations. Climbers love the closely spaced bolts on the canyon’s extra-playfully named routes (check out “Slightly Toasted Cracker” or “Burl Ives is Dead”) and the area’s mild summer weather.
Insider tip: The climate in Ten Sleep Canyon is often cooler than the recorded temperature in the town of Ten Sleep. The summer’s longer days offer plenty of sunlight in the canyon for full days of climbing. Also, bring your angling gear. Nearby Ten Sleep Creek and Meadowlark Lake supply fantastic fishing opportunities.
Grand Teton National Park
Nearest City: Jackson
Average difficulty of routes: 5.6 to 5.12
Grand Teton National Park has it all: sport climbing, bouldering and alpine mountaineering. The area you choose to climb depends on your mood and skill. Cascade Canyon is a popular area for traditional and alpine climbers, while Blacktail Butte is known for its sport climbs. Grand Teton, which bears everything from moderate scrambles to mixed day climbs, is on the bucket list for many climbers.
Insider tip: Hook up with Grand Teton Climbers’ Ranch, a facility providing affordable lodging for climbers visiting the national park. Enjoy a hot shower, read up on mountaineering in the ranch’s library and bond with other climbers in the dormitory-style rooms.
