Climbing

Rock climbers visit from around the world to climb the dolomite cliffs and granite spires of the Bighorns. The vertical to overhanging pocketed faces of dolomite offer elite physical challenges.  Please respect cultural resources by leaving artifacts and petroglyphs as you find them. All archaeological sites, artifacts and cultural resources are protected by state and federal law. For more information, visit Best Practices for Climbing and Climbing Managment on the Bighorn National Forest.

Although there is no formal authorization process for development of new rock climbing areas and routes involving the permanent installation of new fixed anchors or new trail construction, this work  requires prior Forest Service notification. Please complete the re-bolting form and return to the Powder River Ranger Station in Buffalo, Wyoming or email it to sm.fs.bighorninfo@usda.gov to begin the conversation.

Bighorn National Forest climbing managers are collaborating with the public including the climbing community to develop site-specific Climbing Management Plans that may consider procedures for the review and authorization of new climbing development.