Ascend the Wild: An Adventurer’s Guide to Bears Ears National Monument Climbing

Step into a world where expansive desert landscapes and sheer sandstone walls offer an arresting backdrop to an epic climbing journey. Bears Ears National Monument in Utah stands as a sprawling realm of cliffs and canyons, waiting to be explored by those with courage and curiosity as their guides. The landscape, a mesmerizing juxtaposition of vivid red rocks and deep blue skies, invites climbers of all skill levels to embrace its rugged charm. Here, every grain of sandstone whispers tales of ancient cultures, as the earth both embraces and challenges its visitors.

As you embark on your climbing expedition, the path here is as much about preparation as it is about passion. The monument sprawls over 1.35 million acres, and planning your adventure requires careful attention to detail. Begin with mapping out your climb locations; Bears Ears boasts several renowned spots, each offering unique challenges and visuals that defy ordinary description. Indian Creek stands as a veritable mecca for crack climbing enthusiasts, where deep fissures in crimson cliffs promise hours of technical exploration. Elsewhere, the remote and rugged areas near Cedar Mesa provide quieter, less-known routes, perfect for those seeking solitude amidst the grandeur.

Hydration and suitable gear must command your attention before you set foot on the trails. The arid climate of Bears Ears can be unforgiving, its sun both a beacon and a force to be reckoned with. Equip yourself with a sturdy, moisture-wicking wardrobe, and pack more water than you think you’ll need—at least three liters per person—to combat dehydration under the relentless sun. Be sure to secure robust climbing shoes and tape for crack climbing, along with all necessary protection gear, as the rock itself demands respect and readiness.

Stomp down the naturally laid pathways, where each footfall stirs the scent of desert sage while you move deeper into the monument’s heart. As you traverse, the landscape hums with life—insects buzz industriously, and an occasional lizard flickers across your path, disappearing into the chaparral. This is not just a climb; it is a journey into an ecosystem teeming with vitality.

Before setting the rope, take a moment to breathe in the sweeping vistas of spires and buttes, a landscape sculpted by time and weather. The wind whispers stories of those who climbed before you, filling your senses with a sense of awe and anticipation. Whether you choose the elegance of finger-cracks or the brute strength required for off-widths, each ascent presents unique challenges, testing both your technique and resolve.

Safety should always be your foremost consideration. Check for closures and restrictions, respecting both seasonal protection for nesting birds and cultural sites of significant historical importance. These lands hold the imprints of peoples past, their artwork and dwellings scattered across stone walls as reminders of their enduring presence. Approach each site with reverence, leaving no trace of your passage but footprints in the sand.

As sunset soaks the land in golden hues, and shadows stretch long across the canyons, you’ll find reflections on the day’s climb taking shape inside you. The memory of fingers gripping sun-warmed rock and the thrill of overcoming natural challenges settles in, fueling your spirit for the next adventure. In Bears Ears, climbing is not only an assertion of strength and skill but also a communion with a landscape timeless in its beauty and mystery. Here, the rocks do not merely stand—they wait for you to make your mark upon them, to write your own story in partnership with the land itself.