Get out there and grip that jug. Throw yourself past that crux with a graceful (is there one?) dyno! The beauty of climbing in Montana is that there is rock just about everywhere you look, and there is little need to find defined sites if you're only out for a day of bouldering. What we have here is a brief overview of what there is to be found in Montana. After you've whet your thirst for some climbing, do a little more research over at Climb Montana which has a thorough listing of all different types of climbing as well as route information and categorization.
Guides
| Company | Phone | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Great Northern Llama Company 600 Blackmer Lane http://www.gnllama.com/ |
406-755-9044 | Columbia Falls |
| Lewis and Clark Trail 912 East Broadway http://trailadventures.com |
406-728-7609 | Missoula |
| Missoula Outdoor Learning Adventures 1304 Jackson St. http://missoulaoutdoors.com |
406-240-2458 | Missoula |
Glacier Park
Glacier Park alone has over 1,000 miles of trails. For the real adventurer, many remote areas of the state remain virtually uninvestigated and they're climbing potential unexplored. Recently, several guides for rock climbing and hiking have been published, complete with route descriptions and maps. Guide services are available to lead your climbing adventure.Indoor Rock Climbing
| Company | Phone | Location |
|---|---|---|
| University Climbing Wall UM Rec Center http://umt.edu/SA/crec/index.cfm/page2176 |
406-243-5172 | Missoula |
| Summit Medical Fitness Center 205 Sunnyview Lane http://nwhc.org/summit/index.cfm |
406-751-4100 | Kalispell |
Outdoor Rock Climbing
BLODGETT CANYON:
Located right outside of Hamilton, this canyon is one of the most beautiful climbing destinations in the area. Known for its serious characteristics, this is the place to go for an adventurous climbing route. The canyon offers longer routes (in the range of 1,000 - 1,200 feet) that are eight - 10 pitches in length.
KOOTENAI CANYON:
Located in the Bitterroot Valley, Kootenai offers a variety of climbing routes, ranging from steep, sport routes to traditional climbing lines. Offering paths for every level of climber, this area presents the widest range of grades and is a fine place to learn the ropes. Plus, no climbs are longer than two pitches.
Insider Tip:
If you are new to climbing in the Bitterroot, keep in mind that the rocks can be variable and crack systems are frequently smaller than they seem from the ground. Be prepared by carrying a variety of equipment and be sure to wear a helmet.
Ice Climbing
BEAR CREEK:
Bear Creek - located in the Bitterroot Valley.
MISSION FALLS:
In the Mission Valley, just outside of Saint Ignatius, lies Mission Falls. It is a popular ice climbing destination.
FINLEY CREEK:
Located just outside of Arlee, this is a superb option for a half-day climb. Finely Creek offers about a dozen climbs, most of which are located on tribal lands, make sure to attain a permit.
GLACIER NATIONAL PARK:
Known as the "Crown of the Continent" this expert climb is world-class.
