Basics
- Location
- Southeastern Utah
- Season:
- Early spring to late fall
- Rock Type:
- Varying sandstone
- Routes:
- Lifetime
Description
Moab is one of the great climbing destinations of the west, completely different from Yosemite and Joshua Tree but just as unique and challenging. There is so much climbing in Moab that it would be literally impossible to climb all the routes available here. As an added bonus, the climbing season is quite long; even though it gets cold and can snow, about two thirds of the year is open season for climbing.
There are upwards of 30 different major climbing destinations and areas within the general vicinity of Moab. Whether climbing a giant sandstone butte ("beaute" not "but") or a giant tower, the ever changing rock formations and its variety will keep anyone coming back for more. Sandstone is the rock to climb in the area which has its difficulties. Some routes are far more crumbly than others so using common sense and a guide book are well advised. Also, red colored chalk which matches the rock is part of the local etiquette and can be found in any of the local outfitting shops.
The best thing about Moab is that it has everything: a great town with good eats, world renowned biking, hiking, national parks, rivers, and enough space to spread everyone out. Definitely, the red sandstone and its marvelous climbs will be etched into any climber’s memory bank and Technicolor dreams.
