As local communities continue to update Covid-19 regulations, local destinations for outdoor recreation may be closed. Please visit official websites for the latest information.

5 Cool Rock Climbing Spots in Wisconsin

Read what Hiking Experts Share!

Get the newsletter curated by Hiking experts!
* indicates required
  • Select more topics
  • Show more topics
5 Cool Rock Climbing Spots in Wisconsin

Rock climbing is an exhilarating way to get outdoors and exercise. Strategically finding the best or most interesting route to climb to the top is the ultimate challenge. Explore ridges and crags all over Wisconsin at these cool outdoor rock climbing spots! 

1. Devils Lake State Park

If you live in Madison or the surrounding area and want to get into rock climbing, check out Devils Lakes Climbing Guides. With this small, local guide service, you’ll be able to top-rope climb in a variety of places at Devils Lake. Go with large groups, small groups, or solo. The instructors at Devils Lake Climbing Guides are experts and will help you to get acclimated and comfortable during your climb. 

2. Governor Dodge State Park

Governor Dodge State Park has multiple rock faces that are perfect for climbing. The sandstone walls have become a jungle gym to those who are experienced climbers. We recommend this rock climbing location for our more advanced rock climbers. It’s a perfect place to test your abilities. However, some of the rock at Governor Dodge State Park is fragile and it is requested that no more bolts be placed in the sandstone.

3. Interstate Park, St. Croix Falls, WI

This dual state park joins Minnesota and Wisconsin in the Interstate Park. Routes at the park are usually top-rope but offer short lead climbs. At Interstate Park, you will climb basalt rock. Because Interstate Park offers many low range climbs and short approaches, all experience levels are able to climb.

4. Willow River State Park

There are beautiful rock climbing opportunities at Willow River State Park. Willow River State Park has been named one of the best places to rock climb in the Wisconsin region by ClimbMidwest. This climb is considered difficult with tricky clip moves.  

5. Grandad Bluff Park, La Crosse, WI

Grandad Bluff located in La Crosse is a beautiful yet challenging rock climbing experience. The crag features about 40 clean sport lines. Between rock climbing enthusiasts all around the Midwest and local university students, there are a wide range of climbers found at Grandad Bluff.

Read what Hiking Experts Share!

Get the newsletter curated by Hiking experts!
* indicates required
  • Select more topics
  • Show more topics
As local communities continue to update Covid-19 regulations, local destinations for outdoor recreation may be closed. Please visit official websites for the latest information.

Read what the Outdoor Experts are Sharing!

* indicates required
Stepoutside.org - Deep Dive Topics
  • Get the StepOutside Newsletter specially curated by Outdoor experts!
  • Select more topics