Checkerboard Mesa Zion Climbing Guide

A curated route guide to Checkerboard Mesa Zion.

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Checkerboard Mesa Zion Climbing Guide

Checkerboard Mesa offers some of the most accessible traditional climbing in Zion, with its distinctive cross-bedded sandstone providing natural protection and moderate grades. The mesa's north-facing routes stay cooler during hot summer months, making it a solid choice when other areas are baking. Access is straightforward from the main park road, though you'll want to check current park regulations before heading out.

Classic Routes

The must-do routes that define the Checkerboard Mesa experience. These lines showcase the best of what this formation has to offer.

Routes

Beginner Routes (5.6–5.9)

Perfect for getting your feet wet on Zion sandstone or dialing in your trad skills without committing to the valley's bigger walls. These routes offer good learning opportunities with manageable exposure and decent protection.

Routes

Intermediate Routes (5.10–5.11)

Solid routes for climbers looking to push their grades on quality Zion stone. These lines demand better technique and gear placement skills.

Routes

Hard Routes (5.12+)

The test pieces that separate the wheat from the chaff. These routes demand everything you've got.

Routes

Epic Multi-Pitch Routes

Big wall adventures that'll give you a taste of what Zion's all about. Bring your A-game and plenty of water.

Routes