Rock Climbing

Overview

Zion National Park climbing is often the subject of rumors about sandstone, clean at times, shaky and unstable at others, high winds, burning heat and fantastic climbing: all necessary components of a great story. Truly, climbing Zion is an opportunity not to be missed.

Where to go Climbing / Mountaineering

When you're on the canyon floor, look up at the sandstone walls, if you haven't already. Everywhere you look, Zion climbing opportunities are found. Take your pick from the many choices, or follow a guide up one of the established routes. Either way, it's a win-win situation.

Cerebrus Gendarme
Cragging doesn't get much better than this area, with multiple climbs from 5.7 to 5.12. One of the routes, the 5.7 Cave Route, was used as a filming location for climbing classic The Eiger Sanction. Located at the Temple of Sinawava.

Moonlight Buttress
Part of the Cerebrus Gendarme, this route couldn't be more of a classic. Follow a clean, 600 feet sandstone crack from the Virgin River all the way to the canyon rim. About 1,000 feet in total length, the route has a 5.9 C1 rating.

Touchstone Wall
With easy access and an approachable 5.9 C1 rating for beginning aid climbers, this route sees significant traffic because it's a great 8-pitch ascent with a clean descent, all in the sun for perfect spring or fall climbing.

Bunny Hop and Drilled Pocket Boulders
These two bouldering areas are easily accessible from the main road, each having a number of fun routes to warm up on, or challenge you for an entire day.

Snow Canyon
Only a few miles north of St. George, Snow Canyon holds over 100 sandstone routes, including bouldering, sport, and trad. Difficulty ranges from 5.9 to 5.12, which means that there's something for everyone who's looking to get out on some rock.

Guided Tours & Rentals

Explore the guiding companies below to find the right one to lead you and your group safely up the wall and, more importantly, back down to the ground.

• Routes often exceed 1,000 feet, climbing multiple pitches from floor to canyon rim.
• Zion rock climbing has both scenic and challenging big wall canyon climbs.
• There are a few bouldering areas, but most routes cater to trad and aid climbing.
• Snow Canyon, north of St. George, is another fun area to check out.