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Missoula truly has something for everyone. Whether you are a novice looking for a solid top-rope, or a wall-rat seeking a 1000 ft multi-pitch trad climb, Western Montana is the place to be. Pipestone Mountaineering sells a full selection of climbing guidebooks for the surrounding area, and our friendly staff is more than happy to help you on your way to the crag.
 Blodgett Canyon - The location for multi-pitch climbing near Missoula. With a combination of sport and trad routes, Blodgett Canyon has something for every climber. Just make sure to bring enough gear for the multi-pitched climbs, some of which are over 1000 feet. Travel south of Missoula on Highway 93. Blodgett Canyon is just north of Hamilton. The turnoff and route to the trailhead are clearly marked. Expect a 1-4 mile approach to the climbs.
Kootenai Canyon - This is the most popular climbing spot for Missoula and Bitterroot climbers. A variety of sport and tradition climbing exists, ranging from 5.6 to 5.13d. It is a quick drive south of Missoula on Highway 93, located between Stevensville and Florence. Just follow the sign to the Kootenai Trailhead.
Mulkey Gulch - Mulkey Gulch is a fairly popularly sport climbing destination, as most of the routes are bolted. If you want to escape the crowds of Kootenai, this is one of the locations to come to. Take I-90 east from Missoula for about 50 miles. Exit at the Bearmouth exit and continue on the frontage road east. Mulkey Gulch is on your left (north).
Rattler Gulch - This popular beginner destination is one drainage east of Mulkey Gulch. The limestone climbing is mostly bolted, although some trad routes exist. Take I-90 east of Missoula for about 50 miles until the Bearmouth exit. Continue on the frontage rode east about 13 miles, past Mulkey Gulch.
 The Heap - Many of Missoula's climbers got their start at the Heap. These easy (5.6-5.9) routes are all toprope-able and are popular for the budding climbers in the community. From Missoula, take Highway 93 south to Lolo, and then go west on Highway 12 for about 35 miles. Take a left (south) on East Fork Lolo Creek Road, and continue to the Heap.
Lolo Pass - The Lolo Pass area contains a variety of climbs, from overhanging sport routes to traditionally climbed slabs. Many different climbing locations exist, so it is best to buy a guidebook to find them all. They are accessed mostly by turnouts on the side of the road while going up to Lolo Pass on Highway 12, and many require a healthy bushwhack to access. A great area to climb.
Many more climbing options exists around Missoula. There is truly something for everyone. Come to the shop, and our staff will gladly help you on your way to some of the best climbing in Montana.
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