A climber rappelling down a dramatic red rock canyon wall under soft, natural lighting.

Red Rocks Climbing: Explore the Best Areas to Climb

Just outside Las Vegas, Nevada, lies Red Rock Canyon, we discovered a sandstone paradise offering some of the best climbing in the United States. With over 2,000 climbing routes for all skill levels, Red Rocks climbing attracts adventurers from around the globe. Known for its distinctive Aztec sandstone, this climbing destination offers a mix of challenging and rewarding routes, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned climbers alike.

This guide covers everything you need to know about climbing at Red Rock, including top routes, hidden gems, and tips for making the most of your visit.


Table of Contents


The Unique Appeal of Red Rock Sandstone

Red Rock’s Aztec sandstone is highly regarded for its texture, providing unmatched grip and friction. The natural black patina plates offer excellent handholds and footholds, enhancing the climbing experience. However, this sandstone becomes fragile when wet, crumbling easily under pressure. To protect both the rock and yourself, avoid climbing for 24–48 hours after rain.

Close-up of a climber's foot wearing climbing shoes while edging on a rock face.
A climber demonstrates edging technique on rock, showcasing the importance of proper climbing shoes for stability and grip.

Beginner-Friendly Routes in Red Rock Canyon

If you’re new to climbing, Red Rock Canyon has several beginner-friendly options to help you build confidence and improve your skills. Here are three must-try routes for newcomers:

Birdland (5.7)

  • Pitch Count: 5
  • Location: Willow Springs
  • Features: Consistent climbing, great protection, and breathtaking views.

Birdland is an excellent introduction to multi-pitch climbing. Its steady protection and scenic views make it ideal for those looking to experience longer routes.

A climber clinging to a towering rock face in Red Rock Canyon, Las Vegas.
A climber ascends the iconic Red Rock Canyon sandstone, surrounded by striking desert colors and textures.

Olive Oil (5.7)

  • Pitch Count: 4
  • Location: Solar Slab Area
  • Features: A mix of slab and face climbing with straightforward protection.

This route provides a smooth entry into traditional climbing, with its exposed sandstone offering a blend of slab and face climbing. We appreciated the versatility of this route, offering a dynamic climbing experience that suits various styles. It’s a must-try for any climber visiting Red Rock Canyon.

The Great Red Book (5.8)

  • Pitch Count: 2
  • Location: Calico Hills
  • Features: Beautiful face climbing with exposed red sandstone slabs.

Accessible and scenic, The Great Red Book is a popular choice for beginners who want to tackle multi-pitch climbing in a picturesque setting.


Top Routes for Experienced Climbers

Red Rock is a haven for experienced climbers seeking technical challenges and diverse terrain. Here are three classic options:

A view of red sandstone cliffs and boulders under a clear sky, ideal for bouldering and exploration.
Towering red rock formations against a vibrant sky.

Original Route on Rainbow Wall (5.12)

  • Pitch Count: 11
  • Location: Rainbow Wall
  • Features: Sustained difficulty, high exposure, and unparalleled views.

This demanding route is not for the faint-hearted, offering sustained difficulty over its many pitches. It’s a must-try for advanced climbers.

Triassic Sands (5.10)

  • Pitch Count: 3
  • Location: Black Velvet Canyon
  • Features: Varied cracks, technical hand and fist jams, and smooth sandstone.

Celebrated for pristine crack climbing, this route is a favorite for those who love technical moves and classic crack systems.

Myster Z to Armatron (5.7–5.9)

  • Pitch Count: 6+ (combined)
  • Location: Juniper Canyon
  • Features: Exposed climbing on black varnish surfaces.

This combination route offers a full day of climbing through varied terrain, making it a favorite among climbers who enjoy technical diversity.

A climber scaling a steep red rock formation against a vivid blue sky, with white clouds adding to the striking contrast.
A climber scales a vast, sunlit red rock face under a bright blue sky, showcasing the beauty of the routes in Las Vegas.

Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Climbing Spots

Red Rock Canyon’s vast expanse makes it possible to find quieter, lesser-known climbing areas. Here are three hidden gems worth exploring:

Secret Santa (5.9)

Nestled in a quieter area, this route combines crack and face climbing. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy the sandstone without the crowds.

Little Black Book (5.8)

A multi-pitch gem with well-protected face climbing, this route offers stunning views of the surrounding canyon.

Jazz Cat (5.10a)

Located in the First Creek area, this route blends crack and slab climbing. Its lower popularity makes it an excellent option for those seeking solitude.

A climber preparing to boulder under a large rock, with crash pads strategically placed on the ground to ensure safety during falls.
A climber tackles a low bouldering problem under a rocky overhang, with crash pads spread out below for safety.

Red Rock Bouldering: A Boulderer’s Paradise

As an avid bouldering enthusiast, I was thrilled to discover that Red Rock Canyon offers exceptional bouldering opportunities, catering to climbers of all skill levels. Here are three standout spots worth exploring:

Kraft Boulders

Located near the park’s entrance, this area features hundreds of problems ranging from V0 to V12. Popular problems include Potato Chips (V0) and The Pearl (V5).

Gateway Canyon

This area offers dynamic, powerful problems ranging from V2 to V10. Its sandstone formations challenge both grip strength and core control.

Black Velvet Boulders

For a quieter experience, head to Black Velvet Canyon. Problems here range from beginner-friendly V0s to advanced V8s, offering a mix of styles and difficulty.

A close-up of a quickdraw and carabiner attached to a bolted anchor on a rock wall, emphasizing safety in outdoor climbing.
A securely placed carabiner on a climbing route, illustrating the precision and reliability of climbing gear.

Planning Your Visit to Red Rock Canyon

Best Seasons for Climbing

Spring and fall are the best times to visit, with mild temperatures and clear skies. Summers are hot, while winters can bring rain and cold temperatures, making the sandstone brittle.

Permits and Fees

An entry fee is required for Red Rock Canyon, and climbers may need permits for overnight or late exits. Always check the latest regulations before your trip.

Safety Tips

Red Rocks climbing offers an unparalleled experience for climbers of all levels. With its mix of roped routes, bouldering problems, and hidden gems, this destination provides endless opportunities to explore and challenge yourself. Plan your trip, pack your gear, and get ready to enjoy one of the most iconic climbing locations in the world.


FAQs

What are the best times of year to climb in Red Rock?

Spring and fall are ideal due to mild weather and minimal rain. Summer can be too hot, while winter poses risks of rain and brittle sandstone.

Are there beginner-friendly routes in Red Rock?

Yes, routes like Birdland (5.7), Olive Oil (5.7), and The Great Red Book (5.8) are excellent for beginners.

How can I find lesser-known climbing spots in Red Rock?

Hidden gems like Secret Santa (5.9), Little Black Book (5.8), and Jazz Cat (5.10a) offer fantastic climbing with fewer crowds.

Is bouldering available in Red Rock Canyon?

Absolutely! Areas like Kraft Boulders and Gateway Canyon feature problems for all levels, from V0 to V12.

How should I prepare for climbing in Red Rock Canyon?

Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and layers. Avoid climbing on wet sandstone, and check regulations for permits and entry fees.