North America is where modern climbing really came into its own, and the continent still offers an enormous range, from desert towers to alpine granite that draws climbers from all over the world.
The variety here can suit almost any style. Some climbers head for big granite walls that take a full day or more to complete, testing both skill and patience. Others prefer shorter days on sunny sport routes, often within easy reach of a good meal afterward. Beginners have no shortage of gyms and guided crags to start on, while veterans can spend years working through the continent's toughest test pieces. Seasons vary a lot by region, so picking the right time of year matters.
The climbing destinations on our list for North America combine famous areas that shaped the sport with quieter spots that still fly under the radar. Whatever your level, there is likely a wall here worth the trip.
