Rock Climbing in St. George, UT

Climbing Grade: 5.8 to 5.10a

With a mix of sandstone and basalt formations set amid a desert landscape of striking red and white cliffs, climbers can choose from a variety of routes and styles, with both sport and traditional options available. One popular moderate trad line is Crescent Crack (5.8), offering a well-protected crack climb that rewards leaders with impressive canyon views. Sport climbers might gravitate toward Arch Enemy (5.10), where delicate balance and careful footwork are key, or Run Like an Antelope (5.10a), which provides a well-bolted face and fun, varied movement.

Climbing Grade: 5.7 to 5.9

Beginner-friendly routes and a quick escape into nature are just minutes from downtown. The sandstone cliff, located along Red Hills Parkway, is known for its short approach and well-bolted sport climbs, making it popular among newcomers and intermediate climbers. A few standout routes include Red Rib (5.7), a great warm-up or confidence-building line with generous handholds and a gentle angle, and Slam Dunk (5.9), which adds a bit more challenge with slightly steeper sections and interesting movement.

Climbing Grade: 5.7 to 5.12

Black Rocks, situated just north of St. George off State Route 18, offers a prime basalt crag with a diverse selection of sport routes and a sunny, south-facing aspect ideal for year-round climbing. The cliff’s black volcanic rock provides a unique texture and solid holds, appealing to climbers across a range of skill levels. Beginners and intermediates can test their mettle on classics like Party in My Mind (5.8) or Paranormal (5.9), both featuring enjoyable moves and reliable clipping stances. More advanced climbers may be drawn to challenging lines such as The Masochist (5.11a), which demands precise footwork and careful body positioning.

Climbing Grade: 5.5 to 5.10, Bouldering Grade: V0 to V7

Pioneer Park, often referred to as Dixie Rock, sits right in the heart of St. George, making it a great spot for casual climbing and bouldering. The sandstone formations here are perfect for beginners, families, and those looking to practice basic rope skills or enjoy a quick climbing session without a long approach. Toprope routes like Cavity Search (5.6 TR) and The Sandpile (5.5 TR) provide comfortable, easy terrain for newcomers to gain confidence. Meanwhile, those interested in bouldering can explore problems beginning around V0, such as the simple yet fun Pocket Dyno (V0). With its short approach, mellow climbs, and panoramic views of the city below, Pioneer Park offers an inviting setting for developing climbers and anyone seeking a relaxed day on the rock.

Climbing Grade: 5.7 to 5.10

Green Valley Gap, located on the western side of St. George, provides an approachable setting for climbers looking to enjoy a variety of moderate sport routes close to town. Its sandstone cliffs offer plenty of short, well-bolted lines. With options like Green Hornet (5.8) for beginners, Fun Factory (5.9) for slightly more challenge, and Squeeze the Lemmon (5.10b) for climbers seeking to push their limits. Thanks to its straightforward approach and collection of friendly grades, Green Valley Gap is often the go-to spot for those who want to climb without traveling far from the heart of St. George.

Climbing Grade: 5.7 to 5.10

Prophesy Wall, located roughly 20 minutes north of St. George off UT-18, offers a refreshing departure from the shorter, more crowded crags closer to town. This basalt cliff band is known for its multi-pitch sport routes, some trad options, and sweeping desert views, appealing to those who want to delve deeper into Southern Utah’s climbing scene. Climbers can progress at their own pace, starting with more approachable lines like Latter Day Saints (5.7) to get comfortable with the height and exposure. More advanced routes such as Prophet Motive (5.9) and Question of Balance (5.10a) provide increased challenge and engaging movement.

Climbing Grade: 5.7 to 5.10

Cougar Cliffs, located northeast of St. George near the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, offers a quieter basalt crag experience for those looking to escape the more crowded in-town spots. The area’s sport routes generally range from about 5.7 to 5.10, making it a solid choice for intermediate climbers and those ready to progress beyond the most beginner-friendly lines. A few popular climbs include Easy Rider (5.7), a nice introduction to the cliff’s style, Cougar Bait (5.9) with its reliable holds and enjoyable movement, and the more technical Black Hole Sun (5.10b), which demands careful foot placement on darker basalt features.