Best outdoor bouldering in the world. Plus: Seattle's best free outdoor rock climbing spots.

Best outdoor bouldering in the world Otherwise, you’ll spend more time battling heat or snow than you will battling the rock. We love the La Sportiva Katana Lace for sport and trad climbing. Who are the best climbers in the world? With the sport’s popularity rising, there is the constant question of who is the best of the best. Mar 20, 2025 · Top 15 Destinations For Outdoor Rock Climbing In The World Here are ten of the best places for outdoor rock climbing in the world, known for their unique terrain, breathtaking scenery, and diverse climbing routes: 1. It’s no secret that the UK is home to some of the best outdoor rock climbing and bouldering spots in the world. The forested area around the town of Fontainebleau is full of sandstone boulders that offer a wide range of routes for climbers of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or a beginner eager to explore, Seattle has a plethora of climbing spots […]. From the rugged coastlines of Cornwall to the stunning mountains of Scotland, there are countless locations that offer both novice and experienced climbers a chance to test their skills. Apr 8, 2022 · These 17 places are the best climbing towns in the world, with tons of nearby climbing and bouldering and strong support communities. Louis, for example, you’ll find world-class sport climbing and bouldering. The rate of progression within the world of free climbing has never been this exciting. Here are 10 of the best boulderers of the past 12 months. Where have you guys bouldered and what is the nicest place? I personally really like Kjugekull, Sweden. It’s just as important to know when is the best time to go to all these meccas. Blending edging power, precision, and comfort into one versatile package, it's well-suited for any type of roped climbing. Oct 31, 2023 · This head-to-head multi-pitch climbing competition features 12 mixed teams made up of 24 of the world’s best climbers across various disciplines battling it out on 180m-long artificial routes Nov 11, 2020 · Overcome your fear of heights and work on your climbing skills at any one of these amazing climbing destinations from around the world. Whether you’re scaling towering cliffs or tackling boulders, climbing allows you to connect with nature in its rawest form. 25 million climbing routes around the world — even in the Arctic and the Antarctic, though two-thirds are in Europe. While some are well Feb 5, 2020 · Climbing walls have turned up in the oddest places and forms, like old churches and nuclear cooling towers. Jul 3, 2025 · Female Rock Climbers - In this article, you will find information about some of the best Female Rock Climbers from around the world. Sean Bailey: Having one of his best years to date, the American made the first ascent Welcome to the first and only scientifically based and statistically sound ranking for outdoor climbing. After the European nations and North America, South Africa’s Rocklands is perhaps the best destination for those searching for the hardest boulders, certainly in the Southern Hemisphere. 3. You’ll enjoy plenty of variety as the gorge features tufas, crimps, chimneys and limestone pockets. The amount of sandstone in this region is not only vast but of stellar quality, attracting climbers from around the world. Apr 29, 2025 · From Olympic stars and millennials to Gen Z's rising talent, sport climbing is evolving at lightning speed. Three of the Best Bouldering Locations in the World Bouldering isn’t only about the adrenaline rush of climbing boulders without rock climbing equipment; it’s also about exploring some of the most beautiful natural locations still left on this planet. Imagine journeying back to 2001, the year Sharma below the collective minds of the climbing Looking for the best rock climbing destinations in the world? Check out our simple list to choose your next dream climbing vacation. Many IFMGA member organisations also provide training for climbing instructors and help set standards for best climbing practices around the world. The Spot Bouldering Gym was the first dedicated indoor bouldering centre to open in the United States. The Czech climbing legend is probably the best professional rock climber currently. It features 350 meters of blue limestone cliffs and 1,500 recognized climbing routes. Each location offers different types of rock formations an Ready to take your bouldering adventures outside the gym? Explore some of the best outdoor bouldering destinations around the world, featuring stunning landscapes, varied climbing problems, and tips to prepare for your first outdoor climbs. That said, even corners of the country that you might overlook Nov 3, 2020 · Outdoor activities have been garnering a lot of attention, especially during the pandemic. Initially developed to measure your personal progress over time, CPR moves climber rating and rankings away from an arbitrary to a scientifically and statistically sound approach. From world-famous destinations to hidden gems, here are the 10 best rock climbing destinations in the world. The Whitney Peak Climbing Wall has been noted by the Guinness Book of World Record's as the world's tallest artificial climbing wall. Discover the adrenaline-pumping world of bouldering in Houston, TX. From coast to coast, find whatever you're after with this AMGA rock guide's list of the best rock climbing locations in the USA. Garnbret’s ability to consistently perform at the highest level across different climbing disciplines, including bouldering, lead climbing, and combined, sets her apart in the competitive climbing scene. The bar for the hardest climbing routes in the world is constantly being edged forward, far past a standard many once thought was possible. See who made our list and what climbing achievements they’ve racked up over the course of their careers. The present Climbing World Ranking is based on the Climber Performance Rating (CPR). Maybe you’re an alpinist and you like that but you might not see yourself on top of many things. From attempts to repeats to sends, V17 has become the new V16. The high desert climate makes for generally warm winter temperatures and little precipitation. With this form of rock climbing, you will From bouldering to sport climbing to traditional climbing to ice climbing, wild lands across the country are excellent places to climb. Nov 23, 2023 · If you’re into deep water soloing, the location offers plenty of options and one of the best multi-pitch routes in the world, “Lord of the Thais” (7b). Feb 23, 2020 · Smith Rock — Oregon, USA Smith Rock is Oregon’s premier climbing destinations, catering to dedicated sport climbers from around the world. Plus: Seattle's best free outdoor rock climbing spots. All across the world natural rock formations exist, waiting to be discovered and climbed. Besides some of the best trad climbing on the planet on remote red sandstone walls situated high in the range, the Cederberg is also considered to be one of the top bouldering destinations in the world. Jul 17, 2017 · With a name like Boulder, you are bound to find one of the best bouldering walls in the world in this outdoors-orientated Colorado town. Jul 23, 2023 · #3: Adam Ondra Known For: Climbing the first 9c If someone asked you’ Who is the best climber in the world’ Adam Ondra would probably be the first name to pop in your head. Dec 28, 2024 · It was a memorable year in the world of bouldering, with V17 news hitting the internet almost every week. The routes here are the ultimate ascents you can attempt on Earth, as chosen by the world's best climbers. With its unique sandstone rock formations and stunning landscapes, climbers from around the world flock to this destination. From Olympic stars and millennials to Gen Z's rising talent, sport climbing is evolving at lightning speed. Feb 11, 2025 · Making the transition from gym to crag? These bucket list locations should be on your radar. Another bonus is the Bouldering is a super fun climbing discipline that features some of the strongest athletes in the world. In the US, some of the most popular spots include Bishop in California, Hueco Tanks in Texas, Joe’s Valley in Utah, and The Red River Gorge in Kentucky. With a diverse range of landscapes catering to beginners and seasoned climbers, Houston offers some of the finest bouldering spots in Texas. Jun 23, 2024 · Located in the state of Victoria, the Grampians offer some of the best bouldering opportunities in Australia. Our guide covers rock quality, history & climbs for all levels. Best Places for Outdoor Boulder Climbing Trip 4. Jul 2, 2025 · But there are more than 1. May 24, 2024 · Rock Climbing is played the most in the United States, a hub for both outdoor and indoor climbing with a significant number of enthusiasts and professional climbers. Jun 23, 2024 · The Best Bouldering Gyms in the World: Top Climbing Facilities Are you a climbing enthusiast looking for the best bouldering gyms to test your skills and push your limits? Look no further! In this article, we will explore some of the top climbing facilities around the world that offer exceptional bouldering experiences. S. Mar 14, 2024 · Chattanooga is to rock climbing what Vail is to a skiing. Japanese climber Sorato Anraku made it to the top of the boulder ranking on December 2024. America’s national parks, monuments, forests, wilderness areas and wildlife refuges are some of the best places to find the adventure rock climbers seek. Here's our picks for the best rock climbing places in the world. Nov 18, 2018 · Knowing all the best climbing areas in the world is only half the battle. Mar 19, 2025 · Where are the best places to climb around the US—and the world—in 2025? We asked nine climbers which destination tops their list right now and why you should consider going this year. Among its many offerings, rock climbing stands out as a thrilling and challenging activity. Meet the athletes pushing limits and defining the future of the sport. The sport of outdoor climbing is complex and deeply linked with the sense of adventure and exploration. 2 days ago · Since 1970, Climbing Magazine has been the voice of the climbing world, publishing climbing news, interviews, features, opinions, and advice. [4][5][6] In 2021, Garnbret became the first-ever female Olympic gold medalist Check out our comprehensive list of the top 12 rock climbing gyms in Germany. Aug 27, 2024 · Rock climbing has evolved from a niche sport to a global phenomenon, captivating adventurers with its blend of physical endurance, mental toughness, and breathtaking landscapes. May 15, 2023 · Often referred to in the climbing community as Europe’s Yosemite Valley, the Verdon Gorge in France is home to some of the best rock climbing in the world. Nov 20, 2023 · A Rock climb in England offers a thrilling and immersive experience for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. A word of warning, though, unless you are an expert… 30. Here, Australian climber and photographer Simon Carter picks five of the best. Fontainebleau, France Fontainebleau is one of the world’s most famous bouldering destinations, with over 20,000 boulder problems to choose from. More than 60% of the routes are bolted but the area also has a moderate amount of traditional and top-rope accessible climbing. Columnas de Tangán, Sigchos, Cotopaxi Province, Ecuador Splitter Feb 21, 2025 · Our indoor crags boast sky-high fake rocks and some of the best bouldering in the country. From a newly protected granite paradise, to under-the-radar sport climbing destinations, here are nine places we want to climb this year. The area provides a wide range of bouldering grades suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers. Huge granite walls, perfect sandstone slopers, towering spires with incredible views — here's the world's best places to rock climb. Sep 17, 2024 · From Tasmania to Vietnam, the world is filled with astounding rock formations for intrepid climbers. From beginner-friendly bouldering in Berlin to top rope in Munich, there is something for all. May 27, 2018 · From bouldering right next to the ocean in the British Virgin Islands to climbing high above the forests of New Zealand, here are 6 of the best climbing destinations on earth for climbers. As CPR is taking Jun 1, 2023 · Top Climbers in the World New records in the climbing sport are set every year, but there are well-known athletes who are the Top ten best climbers in the world. Dec 20, 2024 · Exploring Seattle’s Best Places for Rock Climbing Seattle, often revered for its lush landscapes and vibrant culture, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. In this list, I break down the 10 best ones! Jul 20, 2023 · There remains stellar potential on all continents. Looking for a list of what you think are the most iconic bouldering areas out there. Jan 9, 2025 · Rock climbing is an exciting mix of physical challenge and mental focus, and in this article we have listed the 10 best rock climbing destinations in the world. Fontainebleau, France Yes, this is the place that influenced the name of the Font bouldering scale, and for good reason. Yosemite National Park, USA May 9, 2024 · She has dominated the sport, making her one of the most celebrated climbers in the world. Jan 16, 2023 · The US and Europe are two of the best destinations for bouldering, each with its own unique characteristics. Feb 11, 2018 · The best rock climbing destinations in the Midwest are somewhat less famous, but have many unique characteristics and offer many experiences for those brave enough to seek them. Discover the best bouldering in the world and what makes areas like Fontainebleau & Bishop legendary. 2017 Oct 21, 2024 · Explore These 10 Great Climbing Spots in the Midwest Missouri and Southern Illinois are perfectly positioned to take advantage of some of the best climbing the Midwest has to offer. With a mixture of Bouldering, Sport climbing and Trad climbing the UK really is up there with Janja Garnbret (born 12 March 1999) is a Slovenian professional rock climber who specializes in sport climbing and competition climbing. Aug 27, 2025 · Caves, silos, and open-air free climbing gyms? These are some of the world's coolest climbing gyms, from Colorado to Bolivia and Scotland. Within a few hours’ drive of St. Whether you're just getting into heel hooks or projecting your next 8B+, the continent offers something for every climber. Their achievements have become the history of modern sports and there is no doubt about the skill and talent of these people. Feb 12, 2021 · Who are the world’s most famous rock climbers? Look no further, we’ve compiled this ultimate list of the best climbers in the world! Apr 17, 2022 · Here are the top ten climbers in the world today. trails, make sure to maximize your next outdoor escapade by adding bouldering into your itinerary. It would take years to explore all the climbing the area has to offer, but you can start with these five destinations surrounding the city. What is Bouldering? Unlike your usual rock climbing, bouldering doesn’t use harnesses or ropes. Jun 11, 2023 · We are living through a truly interesting era in climbing evolution. Whether you’re an experienced climber or a novice eager to chalk up for the first time, the world offers an array of stunning destinations where you can test your skills […] May 15, 2023 · The options for outdoor bouldering in the United States are just as diverse as those for sport climbing. Whether you are a beginner looking to improve your technique or an 1. She has won multiple competition lead climbing and competition bouldering events, two Olympic gold medals, and is widely regarded as the greatest competition climber of all time. Current outdoor bouldering: Shawn Raboutou (2 v17 FAs, lotta v16s) Aidan Roberts (1 v17, many 15s and 16s quickly) Will Bosi (1 v17, multiple v14 flashes, over 10 v15s in a year) Drew Ruana (ton of v14-16s quickly) Simon Lorenzi (potentially 2 v17s, lots of 15s and 16s quickly, people gotta stop diminishing his accomplishments!) Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Whether you’re camping in Yosemite or cycling in the best U. Nov 24, 2025 · Below, we compare 27 pairs of the best climbing shoes for men, covering options for everything from gym and sport climbing to bouldering and long trad routes. Feb 22, 2020 · Mountain Guides who are fully certified by their home country’s member organisation earn the coveted title of International Mountain Guide, which is the world’s highest guiding qualification. The Whitney Peak Climbing Wall is the world's largest outdoor climbing wall, and is part of the BaseCamp Climbing Gym. Check out these top climbing spots around the world. To learn more about outdoor bouldering and how to begin, check out our Outdoor Bouldering Beginners Guide. In every corner of the country, there’s at least one world-class boulderfield, and many regions, the West in particular, have a veritable slew of bouldering areas worth a trip for climbers of all skill and experience levels. Editing to add: Looking for world class locations that you would build a week or more of a climbing vacation around. While nobody has claimed the world’s first V18 it might only be a matter of time. Would you follow in their footsteps in attempting these fearsome climbs? Find climbing areas all over the world Planning a rock trip or just browsing for awesome climbing spot? Explore the world's most comprehensive index of climbing areas. Best bouldering areas in the world Let's get a discussion going. Jan 18, 2023 · The Best Bouldering Destinations in Europe (2025 Edition) Europe remains the beating heart of global bouldering—home to an extraordinary range of stone types, climbing styles, and jaw-dropping landscapes.