Becky Kurowski, Travel Montana’s public relations consultant, is an avid climber, so I went to her for advice on where to go rock or ice climbing in Montana.. Here’s a round-up of some of the places in the state she and her climbing buddies enjoy the most, plus some links to learn more and arrange climbing expeditions.
Gallatin Canyon
This area is just North of Big Sky on Highway 191. This is a largely traditional climbing area on solid granite. The climbs are generally multi-pitch and are located on both sides of the highway with relatively short approaches. This area is steeped in history as some of the first rock climbs in the state are located in this canyon, due to the efforts of Pat Callis, Jim Kanzler, and Brian Leo among many others.
Allenspur, Livingston, Montana
This is a newly reopened sport-climbing crag located just South of Livingston, Montana off Highway 89 in beautiful Paradise Valley. This climbing area was closed several years ago due to access issues with landowners surrounding the area. Due to SMCC members and efforts, an access easement was granted through Hilda Harper’s property and climbing has resumed. This area can generally be climbed year-round on sunny days due to it’s southern exposure.
Hellgate, Helena, Montana
Canyon Ferry is a large lake formed by the mighty Missouri River near the state capital, Helena. Just West of the Big Belt mountains, the lake hides numerous limestone canyons on its eastern shore. Inside these hidden slots lie hundreds of challenging, bolted sport climbs. Joe’s newest guidebook, Central Montana Rock, outlines this area nicely and gives interesting historical background.
Becky also recommends climbers interested in challenging Montana’s mountains check out the following websites: Montana Ice. Long-time Montana climber Jim Earl is the proprietor of the information on this site and offers route descriptions for Hyalite Canyon, the most popular and probably the largest collection of ice climbs in the state. Southwest Montana Climber’s Coalition . This organization preserves and protects climbing areas across Montana for all climbers to enjoy.
Montana Alpine Guides is generally quite busy in the summer months but Becky says the company has an excellent history of service: Montana Alpine Guides; 406-586-8430.
If you’re looking for books about climbing in Montana visit First Ascent Press or call 406-581-1716.
