Go Climb a Rock! 5 of the Best Places to Rock Climb Outdoors in the U.S.

Climbing a mountain may not seem expensive, but the costs of permits and guides can add up quickly. Luckily, most of these fees can be minimized with a bit of research. Regardless of your skill level, here are five of the best places to rock climb in the U.S. At these destinations, you’ll enjoy gorgeous views and feel a sense of adventure without ruining your budget.

Gaze at otherworldly landscapes at Joshua Tree National Park

Climb in one of most unique parks in the country at Joshua Tree National Park.

Joshua Tree National Park is home to both the Mojave and Colorado deserts, offering scenery unlike most California parks or national rock-climbing destinations, with rugged boulders, arid desert landscapes, cliffs and spiny Joshua trees. Located less than an hour’s drive from hotels in Palm Springs, California, Joshua Tree features outdoor rock climbing of more than 8,000 climbing routes and 2,000 boulders, and entrance to the park is only $30 per vehicle for seven days. Popular climbs include Trashcan Rock and the White Cliffs of Dover. If you’re a beginner looking for guided instruction, Joshua Tree Rock Climbing School offers full-day, basic climbing classes for $195.

Climb pink granite cliffs along the coast at Acadia National Park

Take in the Maine coastline as you climb along trails in Acadia National Park.

Unique among outdoor rock-climbing locations, Acadia National Park offers adventurers the chance to scale cliffs that stretch out over the sea along the Maine coastline. Otter Cliff and Great Head Trail offer spectacular surroundings, and Otter Cliff maintains fixed anchors at the summit. Neither trail is monitored for safety, so this area is best for experienced climbers only. Entrance to the park is $30 per vehicle for a seven-day pass, and there are four entry fee–free days per year.

Traverse mountain peaks and glaciers at North Cascades National Park

Glimpse the majestic views of the Washington landscape at North Cascades National Park.

Home to one of the country’s most diverse alpine landscapes, North Cascades National Park is one of the best places to rock climb outdoors for those looking for a challenge. Numerous granite cragging routes in Leavenworth, Washington, present a wealth of climbing opportunities for both novices and experts through the rugged backcountry. Best of all, there’s no fee to enter the park. If you’re looking for some practice before heading into North Cascades, there are limestone bluffs specifically developed for sport climbing just across the border in the Chilliwack Valley at Chipmunk Creek and Slesse Creek.

Take on the second most visited mountain in the world at Pikes Peak

Experience one of the most popular mountains in the world when you visit Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs.

Pikes Peak is one of the most popular and accessible climbs in Colorado Springs and the storied Rocky Mountains, and according to the World Wildlife Fund, is the second most visited mountain in the world behind Japan’s Mount Fuji. Although most recognizable for hiking opportunities, at about 11,000-feet, the best outdoor rock-climbing opportunities begin. A popular location is Zeb’s Arete at 12,500 feet, for a 700’, 5.6 alpine ridge climb. General admission fees range from $5-$15 per person, or $50 per carload (for up to five passengers).

Hang with past presidents at Mount Rushmore National Memorial

While visiting Mount Rushmore, take advantage of some fun boulder climbing in South Dakota.

First things first. No, you cannot make like Cary Grant in North by Northwest and climb Mount Rushmore National Memorial. It’s illegal, so please don’t try. However, there are many outdoor rock-climbing opportunities in the area, including 10-foot, granite boulders. South Seas is one of the most popular climbing areas within Mount Rushmore, offering routes with a wide range of difficulties. W.A.S.P is a mid-difficulty climb (5.9) with a blocky bottom third climb with big holds, then a thin middle with little crimps. Shady Proposition, Ankles Away and X-Marks the Spot are more difficult climbing routes within South Seas. There’s no entrance fee to Mount Rushmore National Memorial; however, there is a $10 parking fee per vehicle once you enter.