Zion Park & Southwest Utah Rock Climbing

While Zion National Park is definitely known for its technical slot canyons, it should definitely not be overlooked as a climbing destination. Splitter and off width cracks and challenging routes up the long, exposed walls of Navajo sandstone abound, and the two easily accessible bouldering locations, Bunny Hop Boulder and Drilled Pocket Boulder, have numerous shorter problems. Whether you're jamming through a splitter face crack, pulling over a roof or pushing through a tough bouldering problem, Zion's a beautiful place to enjoy a day or a week of climbing.

Zion is an ideal location for experienced climbers who are searching for either difficult big wall adventures or two or three challenging sandstone pitches. The tall cliffs of Navajo sandstone have many classic trad routes that are both fun and challenging. Due to the unpredictable, and sometimes soft and loose, nature of sandstone, climbers without a good deal of experience are suggested to look elsewhere. Top rope routes are few, sport climbing is limitied, and easy routes definitely do not abound (check out Moonlight Buttress, Snow Canyon and Touchstone Wall if cragging is what you're looking for). Be aware – rescue is often difficult or impossible, and wet weather drastically weakens the rock.

Permits and Camping
Zion does charge for park access, and a permits is required for all big wall climbs that require an overnight bivy. Camping is available at Watchman Campground, and free camping can be found outside Rockville. For those looking for something a little classier, the Zion Lodge has rooms available.