Climbing and Caving
Rock climbing opportunities can be found on the Bitterroot National Forest. As the popularity of this sport increases, it is becoming more important that everyone help prevent resource damage. Removable hardware and temporary anchors are preferred. Pack it in; pack it out. Climbers are responsible for making sure they are on public land open to climbing. Remember, your safety is your responsibility when recreating on National Forest System lands.
Rock Climbing
The Bitterroot's glacier-carved peaks and canyons provide excellent opportunities for climbers of all skill levels.
From cottonwood-lined river bottoms to windswept alpine peaks, the Bitterroots are rugged and diverse. The peaks and craigs are primarily granitic, and cliff bases are often composed of highly erosive soils. The fragile plant life that grows here is vulnerable to human impacts, so please tread lightly as you climb and explore.
The Forest is home to abundant wildlife. You may encounter raptors, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, bears, and other species. These animals can be easily disturbed so respect them by observing from a distance.
The Bitterroot Valley and surrounding mountains are the traditional homeland of the Bitterroot Salish people. Cultural sites like pictographs, rock cairns, and stone circles may be hundreds or even thousands of years old. Respect and protect this irreplaceable cultural legacy by leaving them undisturbed and report any vandalism to the nearest Forest Service office.
As visitors to these spectacular and unique lands, climbers should practice Leave No Trace techniques. Being responsible land stewards ensures future access to some of the best climbing Montana has to offer. Use these simple tips the next time you are out to minimize your impact on the land to help preserve our great outdoors for future generations!
Rock Climbing Leave No Trace
Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Know the regulations and special concerns for the areas where you plan to climb
- Schedule your climbing to avoid times of high use
- Bring the appropriate equipment for the routes(s) you intend to climb
Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Durable surfaces include established trails and campsites, rock, gravel, dry grasses or snow
- Always use durable roads and trails to access climbing routes
- When unpacking gear at crags, choose a durable location for your staging and belay areas
- Use existing anchors when available
- Good camps and bivy sites are found, not made. Altering a site is not necessary
Dispose of Waste Properly
- Pack it in, pack it out. Inspect your campsite and climbing areas for trash or spilled foods. Pack out all trash, leftover food, tape, and litter
- Carry out abandoned or forgotten gear and webbing
- Minimize the use of chalk when possible. Keep chalk bags closed when not in use to minimize spills.
- Consider packing out solid human waste using an approved method
- Deposit solid human waste in catholes dug 6 to 8 inches deep at least 200 feet away from water, camp, and trails. Cover and disguise the cathole when finished
Leave What You Find
- Preserve the past: observe, but do not touch, cultural or historic structures and artifacts
- Leave rocks, plants and other natural items as you found them
- Avoid developing new routes near archeological or historical sites, or critical wildlife habitats
- Do not build structure, furniture or dig trenches
Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Campfires can cause lasting impacts to the backcountry. Consider using a lightweight stove for cooking and bring a headlamp for light
- Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings, fire pans or mound fires
- Keep fire small. Only use sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand
- Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out campfires completely, then scatter cool ashes
Respect Wildlife
- Learn about seasonal route closures and be prepared to back off a route if you disturb wildlife
- Observe wildlife from a distance. Do not follow or approach wildlife
- Protect wildlife and your food by storing rations and trash securely
- If bringing dogs to crags, ensure they are under control or consider leaving them at home
- Avoid wildlife during sensitive times: mating, nesting, raising young or winter
Be Considerate of Other Visitors
- Larger groups should try not to monopolize popular climbing routes, especially during times of high use
- Maintain a cooperative spirit by being courteous to other users on the trail and at crags
- Let nature’s sound prevail. Avoid loud voices and noises unless necessary for communicating with your climbing partner(s)
Search for Climbing and Caving Opportunities
Blodgett Campground
