Best time to visit Yellowstone National Park

Climbing in Yellowstone National Park

Climbing in Yellowstone is diverse and full of excitement. This is a climbing hotspot with hundreds of peaks to conquer!

Best time: May–October

Climbing
Climbing
Climbing

Yellowstone National Park is located on the territory of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, and is part of their mountain ranges. In four mountain ranges, you can find 70 mountain peaks with a height of over 2,400 m. Two major mountain ranges extend far beyond the borders of the park' these are the Gallatin Range and the Absaroka Range—the largest in the park. The highest peak of the park, Eagle Peak, is located within the Absaroka range.

Some of the best spots which provide perfect climbing opportunities for everyone can be found in the Teton, Wind River, and Big Horn ranges. Base at Lander, Jackson, and Pinedale before you start your journey up. In Lander, you'll find around 40 various peaks with a height of almost 4,000 m and hundreds of peaks with lower elevations. Lots of challenging walls are waiting for you in the Greater Yellowstone region.

Many rock climbing opportunities can be found in Cody. It is easily accessible, and the quality of the rock is best suitable for beginners. Yellowstone Park attracts climbers from all over the world. This is a perfect place for those who enjoy the challenge and the spectacular natural views. Here you can also enjoy the annual Climbers' Festival, held on the 2nd weekend of July.

Practical info

When is the best time to go climbing in Yellowstone National Park?

If you're planning to climb in Yellowstone National Park, it is best to avoid winter and early spring as many mountain ranges and peaks close during this time. The ideal season for climbing is from May to October, where the weather is mild and dry, though it can still get cold at higher elevations and storms may come in during the afternoons. Show more

What are the best locations for climbers in Yellowstone National Park?

Yellowstone National Park has four mountain ranges: Teton, Wind River, Big Horn ranges, and Absaroka Range, all offering diverse climbing opportunities. The best climbing locations are in Lander, Jackson, and Pinedale, with the former having nearly 40 peaks that rise up to 4,000 meters. Jackson has walls suitable for different skill levels, while Pinedale offers access to more challenging peaks. Cody is also ideal for beginners. Show more

Where can I find the most challenging walls for climbing in Yellowstone National Park?

For the most challenging walls, the Greater Yellowstone region offers steep and technical routes that require advanced climbing skills. These walls are located further inside the park, making them more diverse, unique, and challenging for experienced climbers. Show more

What is the quality of the rock like in Cody for rock climbing?

Cody boasts high-quality rock formations that are perfect for climbing, particularly recommended for novice climbers. The park has good rock quality overall, though climbers should always check for unstable or loose formations before scaling climbs, as they may pose hazards. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin