5 Cool Rock Climbing Spots in Arkansas

5 Cool Rock Climbing Spots in Arkansas

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Get ready to experience Arkansas from an angle you’ve never seen before. The best way to enjoy the Natural State’s natural beauty is by climbing it. Across Arkansas, you’ll find a variety of excellent rock climbing spots to truly challenge your abilities. From sandstone sport climbing to top-notch bouldering, here are the five coolest rock climbing spots in the state. 

1. Horseshoe Canyon Ranch

A real Arkansas dude ranch! Well-known in the climbing community as a great destination for some of the finest sandstone sport climbing, the certified and experienced guides at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch will show you the ropes. This place has been featured in multiple outdoor magazines as one of the best climbing areas east of the Rockies. From the beginner just starting out to the repelling expert, HCR has routes available for all skill levels.

2. Sam’s Throne

Sam’s Throne, located up on Mt. Judea, is a popular spot for rock climbing, hiking, and more. Top roping is popular here at Sam’s Throne, which features climbs that range from short bouldering up to 75-foot pitches to challenge all skill levels. 

3. Red Rock Point

With some routes reaching near 200 feet, Red Rock Point is one of the tallest established climbing areas in the state of Arkansas. Access to these red sandstone walls is tricky so use caution in your approach (do not try to access from the top!). Red Rock Point towers above the valley, just north of the Sam’s Throne area.

4. Mount Magazine State Park

At 2,753-feet high, Mount Magazine is the highest point in Arkansas, making it a dramatic location for technical rock climbing. Traditional Arkansas bouldering, sport climbing, and rappelling is allowed in a designated area on the mountain’s south bluff that overlooks the Petit Jean River Valley. 

5. Little Rock Climbing Center, Little Rock, AR

This indoor rock climbing center is one of the best places in the Central Arkansas area to find extreme fun and a great alternative to the average workout. The Little Rock Climbing Center features over 5,000-square-feet of 30-foot high textured walls with angles for all skill levels.