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Avoiding Winter in Southern Utah

A small radius, a bunch of crags.

By: Karissa Frye + Save to a List

Awakened by the blazing sun heating my Subaru to uncomfortable sleeping conditions, I reach out to wipe condensation off of the nearest window. I am surprised to see a group of climbers already prepping snacks and stuffing ropes, quick draws, and harnesses into their bags. I promptly get up. It's January, but it feels like spring. I'm in southern Utah. 

If you're like me, you can't accept winter weather taking your rock climbing habit away for months at a time. No need to break the bank or quit your job, take a quick trip to southern Utah. There are plenty of crags and there's plenty of sun. This gallery should warm you right up. 

Hurricane, UT:

The Hurricave is a chossy climbing destination just minutes from downtown Hurricane, Utah. It has numerous high-grade routes, most of which were established by Joe Kinder. Contradicting to the snowy peaks in the backdrop, temperatures were around 50-60 degrees all day long, ideal climbing weather. 

St. George:


Chuckwalla Wall is sunlit virtually all day long. There are numerous sport routes with deep pocket holds on this red sandstone.

Turtle Wall exists about a mile North of the Chuckwalla parking lot. There is a trail you can follow from the lot to get you there. Keep your eyes open, it's called "Turtle Wall" for an obvious reason. You'll find an array of routes ranging from 5.8a- 5.13d at this crag. 


Moe's Valley is a boulderer's paradise. Grab a crash pad and get after it until the sun goes down!

The Utah Hills are filled with sport and trad routes. This is a big area, which means you can virtually always avoid an over-crowded wall. All skill levels will enjoy this spicy limestone.

While I only had seven days in the area, I got to climb all of these unique crags. If southern Utah makes geographical sense to you, make a plan to escape winter and rejoice in climbing paradise! 


We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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