The Las Vegas area is home to some of the most exciting and sought-after rock climbing in the world. Thousands of climbers travel to this sandstone paradise every year to experience the perfect weather, the perfect climbing and finding their hidden strengths. There are also several indoor climbing facilities in town.
Christmas Tree Pass
Christmas Tree Pass offers white granite domes and slabs. It is open year-round and very hot in summer. Located about 75 miles south of Las Vegas. Directions: Follow U.S. 95 south from Las Vegas about 15 miles past Searchlight. Turn left (east) on Christmas Tree Pass road and continue to the pass.
Keyhole Canyon
Features a modest number of trad climbs and bouldering. Keyhole Canyon offers beautiful setting and is open year-round, but is very HOT in the summer. Directions: Keyhole is located south of Las Vegas and west of Nelson. Follow U.S. 95 south from Las Vegas for about 15 miles (past the road to Nelson). Turn left (east) onto a dirt road just south of mile marker 41. Turn right (south) at the second power line and follow dirt road about 2 miles. Turn left (east) to Keyhole Canyon parking area (1/4 mile).
Mt. Charleston
Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, Toiyabe National Forest)
Mt. Charleston is called "the best limestone sport climbing in America." It's cool during summertime, offering steep limestone in an alpine setting of waterfalls and 4,000-year-old Bristlecone pines. There are still miles of "uncharted" cliffs to be explored. Mt. Charleston is managed by the U.S. Forest Service and much of the climbing is at 8,000 feet in the Spring Mountain Wilderness Study Area. Note: There are no gas or grocery services on the mountain.
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Red Rock Canyon
(702) 363-1921
Just 19 miles west of Las Vegas is one of the world's most popular rock-climbing areas. In addition to awe-inspiring natural beauty, it offers everything from boulders to big walls. Red Rock has more than 1,000 routes for beginners and accomplished climbers.
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Valley View Recreation Center
500 Harris St.
(702) 565-2121
Bouldering walls were added to each center in early 2003. View Photos
Powerhouse Indoor Climbing Center
8201 W. Charleston Blvd.
(702) 254-5604
Offers 8,000 square feet of textured climbing terrain that includes roofs, buttresses, dihedrals, caves and gymnastic floor padding.
Sky's the Limit, Climbing School, Guide Service & Indoor Climbing Center
3065 E. Patrick Lane, Suite 4
(702) 363-4533
Sky's the Limit is the largest indoor climbing center in Nevada featuring Safe as Possible climbing management. More than 14,000 square feet of fully contoured walls are available for the beginner and expert alike with areas for leading, top roping and bouldering. Offers introductory through advanced programs inside and out every day. Youth leagues, group classes and events, all equipment included, no previous experience necessary.
