River Road Moab Climbing Guide

A curated route guide to River Road Moab.

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River Road Moab Climbing Guide

River Road delivers some of Moab's most accessible desert tower climbing, with everything from mellow sport routes to burly trad lines scattered across iconic red rock formations. The area stretches along Highway 279, offering quick approaches and stellar Colorado River views that make it a go-to for both visiting climbers and locals looking for a solid session. Most crags are visible from the road, so you can scope your objectives while driving in.

Classic Routes

The must-do lines that define River Road climbing. These routes have earned their reputation through quality movement, solid rock, and that indefinable something that makes you want to come back.

Routes

Beginner Routes (5.6–5.9)

Perfect for getting comfortable on Moab sandstone or introducing newer climbers to desert rock. These routes offer good movement without the commitment of the area's harder lines.

Routes

Intermediate Routes (5.10–5.11)

Step up your game with routes that demand solid technique and gear skills. These lines showcase what makes River Road climbing special without requiring you to be a complete crusher.

Routes

Hard Routes (5.12+)

Serious business for strong climbers looking to test themselves on world-class desert stone. The Scar area alone offers a concentrated hit of steep, technical climbing that'll humble most visitors.

Routes

Bouldering

A mixed bag of problems scattered throughout the area, from moderate warm-ups to world-class test pieces. The bouldering here tends to be more of a side show to the main climbing attractions.

Routes