Bozeman has a reputation for being one of the top climbing destinations in the state, and it doesn’t matter the season – in fact, some say the ice climbing here is even better than rock climbing. We would have to agree based on the attendance at the annual Bozeman Ice Festival each December. There are plenty of routes right outside of town, but venture a short drive, and you’ll find enough climbs to keep you busy for a lifetime of climbing.
Hyalite Recreation Area
Hyalite is a climber’s dream. Practice Rock, located in the canyon, has a wide range of climbs ranging from top roping opportunities for beginners to challenging lead routes. Hyalite is also known for its ice climbing, with over 150 routes within a 3-mile area. It is also home to the Bozeman Ice Festival, which draws people from around the country for clinics, gear, movies, talks, and the camaraderie of the climbing community.
Gallatin Canyon
In addition to some killer climbing routes, Gallatin Canyon is stunningly picturesque. (It was the setting for the famous fly-fishing shots in A River Runs Through It.) You’ll find great sport climbing on a limestone buttress, and a little farther south lies the main, high-quality gneiss area.
Beehive Peak
Located just outside Big Sky, Beehive Peak has dozens of reported and unreported lines with a wide range of difficulty. Expect adventurous, strenuous ascending. Beehive is also great for ice and mixed climbing.
Bear Canyon
Close to town and easy to access, Bear Canyon is a favorite for beginners but has enough complex lines to keep the interest of experienced climbers. You’ll find lots of exciting features, such as single-finger pockets.
Bozeman Pass
Just off the interstate, Bozeman Pass has a cluster of separated crags with high-quality rock marked with pockets, crimps, and solid faces. There are mellow climbs for beginners and technical, challenging climbs for experts.
Paradise Valley
Sandwiched between the Gallatin and Absaroka/Beartooth Mountain Ranges, Paradise Valley has over 100 routes, ranging in diversity from easier climbs like clipping bolts at Allenspur to technical free climbs on Mount Cowen.
Spire Rock
Also known as Pipestone, this climbing destination is about an hour and a half from Bozeman, with various climbing options and a straightforward approach. You’ll find a good crack and off-width climbing on Queen and multi-pitch on King. There’s also a good amount of bouldering.
Bridger Range
The Bridger Mountain Range, the closest range to town, has 48 routes, with 38 of them located in Wolverine Bowl. There are 50 miles of rock to climb, and most are all-day affairs, so pack accordingly and bring enough food, water, and layers.
If you enjoyed this blog, take a look at some of our other related articles:
- Top 10 Mountain Biking Trails in Bozeman
- Ice, Ice, Baby; An Inside Look at Ice Climbing Around Bozeman
- Why Bozeman is One of the West's Best Ski Towns
In our never-ending quest to keep up with all things new in Bozeman, we have been producing content for years and can't possibly update every blog when new businesses open or existing businesses close. Please reference the publish date and do your own due diligence when making plans.