5 Cool Rock Climbing Spots in Washington State

Located near Stevenson, Washington, on the north bank of the Columbia River just a few miles east of Vancouver, this public recreation area covers over 5,100 acres including shoreline and wooded terrain. Once privately owned, the land was gifted to the state and became an official park in 1935. Known for being a very popular and challenging rock climbing spot for local and international visitors, the park also has over 20 miles of trails for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. There is a boat dock and launch ramp for water activities, and campgrounds for overnight visitors. If you love taking pictures in nature, you’ll find no shortage of scenic overlooks and beautiful surroundings at this ancient volcano, which is one of the reasons it’s one of the most photographed places in the state. 

Originally called Chuckanut State Park when it became Washington’s first state park in 1914, the name was changed to present-day Larrabee State Park in honor of the family who donated it. Located six miles from Bellingham, the 2,683-acre park offers plenty of things to do like hiking, biking, and camping. The two gorgeous mountain lakes, Fragrance Lake and Lost Lake, provide opportunities for boating, fresh and salt water fishing, beachcombing, and other water activities.

Maintained by Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission, Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park is what remains of an ancient waterfall. Full of deep lakes and gorges, this 4,028-acre park is between Soap Lake and Coulee City and has over 22,000 miles of shoreline for boating, swimming, and fishing. The magnificent cliffs can be reached via the hiking trails and provide excellent climbing and photography opportunities. There’s even a nine-hole golf course, miniature golf course, horseback riding, and campgrounds available. The Dry Falls Visitor Center has a number of interpretive displays that tell more about the history of the area and the wildlife that live there. 

High atop Mount Pilchuck’s mountain terrain where it looks like you can touch the clouds, you’ll see crystal clear lakes and snow-sprinkled hills. Located on the western side of the Cascade Mountains near Granite Falls, Washington, this 1,893-acre state park is the definition of awesome. With a name meaning “red water,” Mount Pilchuck State Park provides hiking and rock-climbing opportunities that will please the most demanding outdoor enthusiasts. The less-than three-mile hike up the mountain enables views of Mount Baker, Mount Rainier, and the Olympics, and there’s a restored fire tower at the summit. This is a strenuous and potentially dangerous hike because weather conditions can change quickly. Make sure to check in at the ranger station before climbing. 

Open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day, Peshastin Pinnacles State Park near Cashmere, Washington, is one of the best rock climbing locations in the central part of the state. Only 34 acres, the park has 1.5 miles of beautiful hiking trails, and spectacular views of flora and fauna in the area for photographers. Rock climbing enthusiasts will appreciate the gripping sandstone all the way up the surface of the mountain. The slabs and spires can be easy or difficult and may require equipment. Climbers must be down at least 30 minutes prior to the park closing or a citation will be given. Although the park is only open for day use, there is overnight camping nearby.