Bouldering at the Big Bend Bouldering Area in Moab
Bouldering at the Big Bend Bouldering Area is a prominent attraction for climbing enthusiasts visiting Moab, Utah. This destination offers uniquely challenging problems and picturesque scenery, making it a mecca for climbers of all skill levels. Its accessible location, just a short drive from Moab, enhances its appeal, while the quality of the sandstone boulders keeps climbers returning season after season.
Adventure Guide To Bouldering at the Big Bend Bouldering Area
The Big Bend Area
This area features a variety of bouldering problems ranging from V0 to V10, catering to both beginners and advanced climbers. The boulders provide stunning views of the river and surrounding landscapes, creating a perfect backdrop for a day of climbing. The well-marked trails between problems make navigation easy.
Wild West Boulders
Known for its exposed rock faces and unique rock formations, the Wild West Boulders provide a thrilling climbing experience. Problem setters have meticulously crafted routes that engage climbers both mentally and physically, encouraging creativity in movement.
Blowhole Boulders
These boulders are popular for their varied height and difficulty. The namesake "blowhole" offers a unique challenge with its overhang that requires both strength and technique. The area also has ample flat land for crash pads, making it safer for climbers to attempt highball routes.
Local Insights
Moab has a rich climbing culture steeped in historical significance within the climbing community. It’s essential to respect the land and practice Leave No Trace principles, as the vibrant ecosystem plays a crucial role in the area’s natural beauty.
Visitor Tips
Best Times to Visit: Ideal climbing conditions occur in spring and fall, when temperatures are milder and the daylight hours are longer.
What to Bring: Essential items include climbing shoes, crash pads, chalk, and plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Driving Directions: From Moab, take US-191 S for about 5 miles. Turn onto Big Bend Road, where you’ll find parking areas close to the bouldering sites, which typically takes about 15 minutes.
Reviews
Alexander Stick7 years ago
An incredible suprise to wake to with majestic beauty on all sides. Stand in awe to the power of the Colorado River and Mother Nature. Make sure to get a campground with ample wind protection on all sides. Between 2 and 5 AM winds pick up and very very heavily gust. Hunker Down 👌🇺🇸🤘
Michael Walsman7 years ago
Good for small groups. Not a good site for larger groups. Threaten with fine due to our group of 20 scouts. Had to do some reading and digging to know about that rule. Great scenery. Bathrooms were clean. Please make a few camp sites for larger groups so we can comply.
Jake Garn2 years ago
Nature's perfect playground! We stopped to grab a "quick" picture of the view on this bend of the Colorado River. We had passed it many times but the light here was just too perfect with the Red Cliffs of Moab kissed by the sun behind. What we discovered is the perfect place for my three boys climb and explore! There are lots of technical bouldering climbs that are well marked with chalk we skipped those and just climbed up and around the giant boulders that spilled long ago from the cliffs above. It was a great short pit-stop, but next time I think we we might plan a lot more time here. It was relatively peaceful and only one other car was there on this crisp January day in 2022! Definitely recommend making this stop if have adventurous kids that are a little tired of playing on metal playgrounds! No padding here, unless you bring it yourself.
Jennifer Nolen2 years ago
There are various campgrounds in the area, across the road. This is actually the bouldering/scrambling area.
There's a small parking lot right off the road. You can climb, wander, and explore. No fees, reservations, or check-ins needed.
No bathrooms or amenities of any kind, but Moab is only about 20 minutes away and there are pit toilets across the road at the various campgrounds and pull offs.
Plenty to do here for different ages and abilities. My husband and teen boys were plenty challenged and I was able to pick my way through less grueling areas. The view alone is simply amazing.
Tyler Parcell6 years ago
Great place to camp outside. Next to the river. Bathrooms. We are next to the road but I don’t remember hear them at all during the night. I felt safe with all my stuff when I was gone all day. I hesitated writing this review because I didn’t want people to know this was a good place to camp. But I would recommend any large group to stay there.
