Climbing and Caving
Your favorite climbing area may be right her on the Rio Grande.
Mountain Climbing
Take a popular trail to climb one of the many "fourteeners" on the Forest. The Forest has diverse climbing options ranging from beginner-friendly crags to technical alpine routes on high peaks.
Always check the weather forecast before climbing, as conditions can change rapidly in mountainous areas.
Safety precautions:
- Proper gear, knowledge of climbing techniques, and awareness of potential hazards like rockfall and avalanche risk are crucial.
- Prepare for self-rescue and extended stays.
- Leave your itinerary and estimated time of return with a third party.
- Go up slowly to acclimate to the higher elevation.
- Increase fluid intake and carbohydrate consumption.
Rock Climbing
Rock climbing opportunities can be found on the forest. As the popularity of this sport increases, it is becoming more important that everyone help prevent resource damage. Removable hardware and temporary anchors are preferred. Pack it in; pack it out. Climbers are responsible for making sure they are on public land open to climbing. Remember, your safety is your responsibility when recreating on National Forest System lands.
- Development of any new rock climbing, bouldering or rappelling areas and development of any climbing routes involving the permanent installation of new fixed anchors or new trail construction requires prior Forest Service authorization.
- No new climbing routes using fixed anchors are allowed in certain areas. However, maintenance or replacement of existing approved fixed anchors is allowed by non-mechanized means.
Get the harness and ropes, grab your partner and tie on for your climbing thrills!
Search for Climbing and Caving Opportunities
La Garita Wilderness: Rio Grande
Sangre de Cristo Wilderness: Rio Grande
South San Juan Wilderness: Rio Grande
Weminuche Wilderness: Rio Grande