Rock Climbing

Independence Pass – Explore the crags of Independence Pass.  These areas have easy access and a wide range of climbing.  With something for climbers of all abilities there is excellent bouldering, sport climbing and trad climbing.  The best season is summer and early fall.  The Independence Pass rock climbing is located between Aspen and Twin Lakes on Hwy 82.  This section of road is closed in the winter and thus you should check local road conditions to ensure the Pass is open if you plan to climb in the spring or late fall. 

Crystal River Valley – The Crystal River Valley provides climbers easy access to climbing close to Carbondale.  There are several areas here being actively developed.  The Narrows is a granite tower with great climbing.  Despite its close location to the highway, the sound of the Crystal River tends to drown out the highway noise.  Coal Creek is also worth exploring with both sport climbing and bouldering.

Glenwood Canyon – Glenwood Canyon is home to a wide range of climbing.  With varying levels of quality and access, this climbing area has a lot of terrain to be explored.  Unfortunately much of the best rock in Glenwood Canyon is challenging to access either due to difficult hikes or private land restrictions.   The most frequently climbed areas in the Canyon include the Puoux and No Name.  In the spring and fall, you'll find warmer climbing in Glenwood Canyon than elsewhere in the Roaring Fork Valley.