This new craze for climbing is taking off! With climbing’s popularity, new locations are constantly being identified and explored worldwide. These locations are ranked using the Yosemite Decimal System (which scales climbing difficulty from 5.0 to 5.15).

According to the Climbing Business Journal, 43 new commercial climbing gyms were opened in 23 states in the USA in 2017, the first time this has happened in history. The numbers have grown even faster since the Olympic Games 2020 in Tokyo held a climbing contest for the first time.

The Climbing Gym is a new phenomenon these days. Many people are already signing up for it; if you haven’t already, you’ll be doing it shortly.

This guide gives a hand-picked list of the nine best rock climbing destinations for beginners.

Get your harness, buy the best climbing gear, pack what’s necessary, and head out! Because those mountains are waiting for you!

Let’s dive in, shall we?

1. Joshua Tree, California

All national parks are must-visits, but Joshua Tree was created for climbers (between the Mojave and Colorado deserts); with its 8,000 climbing routes, it is a unique experience. The Park may appear flat compared to Yosemite, the Grand Tetons, or Acadia.

But the rocks are different, making the climb a high-octane experience. One thousand of the rock formations in the Park are graded 5.8 (or below).

And 100 of them are set up for something they mainly teach in those climbing gyms, i.e., rope climbing.

You may want to start with an accessible cliff, say Goeb’s Goes Gecko, which is merely a 5.2. The climb would take you to the top of Lizard, and gosh! The view you’d get would be breathtaking.

2. Boulder, Colorado

Some rock climbing experts, like Sasha DiGiulian, seem to like Colorado. The reason is quite apparent. The place is beaming with climbing opportunities for beginners and experts.

That is why climbers like DiGiulian consider the state their second home. Boulder Canyon has almost 300 climbing routes.

All these have a grade of 5.8 or below; nearly 20% are for top-rope climbers. So, we recommend an accessible 105-foot Pine Tree Route.

After you cross this 5.5 route, you can head for a 5.6’s Chimney or a 5.7’s East Slab East.

3. Railay & Tonsai, Thailand

Thailand’s beaches are a significant attraction for climbing experts, but they may seem a bit daunting for beginners.

But it’s not as complicated as it seems. So, don’t worry. Laem Phra Nang is a top-rope route having a grade of 5.8. Other than that, there are almost 18 trad & sports climbs. You may have to place your bolts in there or clip the bolts already there.

But most of these rocks are already bolted, so go for it. It’s an adventure. If you’re having difficulties, climbing companies near Krabi would happily guide you and give you climbing lessons.

4. Frakenjura, Germany

Are you a fan of sport-climbing? Go to one of Europe’s top-rated sport-climbing places. However, there is only one route for top-rope climbing; this northern part of Bavaria has almost 400 of its total (i.e., 8000+ limestone crags) graded 5.8 or below.

So, you had better be a good sportsman or a trail climber. You may also find some experts challenging routes of 5.14 grading or higher, so after you climb yours, watch them get inspiration while you sip on your cold beer.

5. Red River Gorge, Kentucky

Are you looking for a rock-climbing destination in the South? Don’t lurk around and make haste to Red River Gorge – the best you could come across with its sandstone cliffs.

Almost 370 routes are 5.8 or lower grade, 12 of which are for top-rope climbers. After you finish the 5.5-graded Forgive Me, Amy, For I Have Sent (50′) and the 5.6-graded Warm-Up (60′), grab a slice of pizza at Kentucky’s most popular staple, Miguel’s Pizza.

6. Smith Rock, Oregon

One thousand five hundred routes, with 170 having a 5.10 or below grading, with 16 routes dedicated to top-rope climbing; yes, we’re talking about Smith Rock – the best destination for sport climbing.

The top view of the Crooked River under the volcanic rock cliffs is simply fantastic. You can find routes like Kindergarten Crack for beginners and Double Time for pros here.

7. The Shawangunk, New York

Here’s an idea! If you’re a climber living in NYC, get in your car and travel for 90 minutes, and BOOM, you’re at the Gunks. This destination houses around 400 routes (5.0-5.8), with over 100  routes that can be top-roped.

There is no sports climb here, but an easy 5.6-graded High Exposure trad climb would compensate. Try coming here in the fall; you won’t regret the sightseeing!

8. Yosemite National Park, California

You’re talking about rock climbing, and you don’t mention Yosemite National Park’s El Capitan! How’s that going to happen!?! Many routes are available here for climbing, but El Capitan needs a special mention.

It’s not for beginners, TBH, but one should get inspired by looking at those who try to climb this 3000-foot granite cliff.

9. Todra Gorge, Morocco

Located in the heart of the Atlas Mountains, this serene place is one of the world’s most beautiful rock-climbing locations.

This location has over 400 climbing routes made in limestone cliffs. It’s the largest developed climbing area in the Atlas Mountains.

These are nine of the best locations in the world for rock climbing, and you’ll enjoy the experience!

Here are some more valuable guides for beginner climbers on our platform.

“Climb Safe and Smart with the Best Rock Climbing Quickdraws of 2024“

“Ascend Safely and Stylishly with These Top 7 Rock Climbing Helmets of 2024 (Men’s Helmet)”