Rock Climbing

Reach For the Sky

If you enjoy rock climbing, and you own the proper equipment, there's a few things that you should know first about climbing in Yellowstone. Since most rock in the park was volcanically formed, it tends to crumble & break loose easily - therefore making it dangerous for rock climbing. In addition to this, many cliffs in the park are nesting sites for eagles, hawks and falcons, and rock climbing in these areas during the nesting season would disrupt these animals. If you wish to rock climb in the park, do not attempt to do so without an experienced guide to show you where and when climbing is safe. Unlike Grand Teton N.P. or Yosemite N.P., the National Park Service does not facilitate rock climbing in Yellowstone.

Beginner Rock Climbing Classes are offered by the Recreation Program every summer. We have all of the equipment and a skilled staff to teach you "the ropes!" The classes are conducted in the field - you'll start climbing real rock right away! These classes begin in late July. Talk to your location Recreation Staff if you are interested.

Visit our Rock Climbing Photo Gallery to see some photos taken at our rock climbing courses.

If you want to know where to climb, how to get there, and technical information about routes, there are a number of sources of information. This information is constantly being updated. Ask your rec staff where to find this information, and they'll point you in the right direction.