While other states must accept indoor only rock climbing, Idaho is one of the lucky ones with an overabundance of glorious rock climbing spots. Rock climbers throughout the entire state don’t have to travel far to find a peak worth climbing. Below, you’ll find five of our favorite climbing spots throughout the state.
A rock climber’s haven, the City of Rocks in Cassia County, Idaho, is a perfect place to bring a rock climbing enthusiast. Many of the oldest rocks in the United States make up some of the thousands jutting up from the ground, with a few dating back over two billion years. Traditional climbers will find much to like in the City of Rocks.
Chimney Rock provides a moderately difficult hiking and rock climbing path in the Kaniksu National Forest. Much of the climb can be done traditionally, but to get to the top, you’ll need at least a passing knowledge of rope skills. But at the top, you’ll have a wonderful view of neighboring states.
Jughandle Mountain near McCall, Idaho, is moderately difficult and takes about three hours to climb. You’ll start from a trail at Louie Lake until you reach the south end. You can follow the northwest ridge to the summit, at which point you’ll be greeted by incredible views.
The Sawtooth Range is a natural attraction in Idaho, known for its 11,000-foot summit with 57 peaks. The Sawtooth Range offers world-class mountain climbing, in addition to nature trails, wildlife viewing, mountain biking, bird watching, canoeing, kayaking, and more. You’ll find over 700 miles of trails, so take a map and plot your course before you go. August is the best month for rock climbing.
Mount Idaho climbs to just over 12,000 feet above sea level, making it the seventh highest peak in Idaho. Located in Salmon-Challis National Forest, part of Custer County, Mount Idaho is a favorite of many Idaho climbers. The mountain is known for its pyramid shape and lack of obvious climbs to the top, allowing climbers to experiment in ways other peaks don’t.
