Where to Climb in Missouri State Parks (and How to Get a Permit)
Contrary to recent rumors, rock climbing is welcome at select Missouri State Parks. Here’s where to boulder and send your next route.
Your Adventure Guide to Pere Marquette State Park
Climb limestone, hike blufftop trails, spot bald eagles, and plan the perfect weekend escape at Illinois’ largest state park.
Her Hardest Climb Didn’t Involve a Wall. It Involved Twins.
She thought climbing was her biggest challenge. Then came twins, a NICU, and a new reality.
From Fear to Focus: How Rock Climbing Helps St. Louis Veterans Find Their Center
A St. Louis climbing program helps veterans quiet fear, sharpen their mental game, and find balance on the wall.
Can the Osprey Ariel Plus 70 Handle Serious Miles? We Found Out.
From slogs through swamps to desert climbs, we put the Osprey Ariel Plus 70 to the test. Did it live up to the hype? Let’s find out.
A Climbing Spot Like No Other — Hidden in Southern Illinois
For his latest contribution, climbing legend Jim Thurmond purchased, bolted, and developed a new climbing spot in Southern Illinois called Fountain Bluff. It’s now open to climbers, and all the route information is available on Mountain Project.
Our Favorite Outdoor Gear for Spring and Summer
Spring is almost here, and summer is just around the corner. (We promise.) That means it’s time to get outside and embrace adventure. These 28 items can help.
Gear Test: Black Diamond Solution Hoody
We test the Black Diamond Solution Hoody, an ultra-light, insulated jacket.
Illinois Has a New Bouldering Gym
The Proving Ground Bouldering Gym in Bloomington, Illinois, is open in a new space with a complete redesign.
We Talked to Upper Limits’ Climbing Coach. Here Are His Top Tips for Beginners.
Spencer Schmick, the head youth coach and head route setter at Upper Limits Rock Gym & Pro Shop in Maryland Heights and Chesterfield, shares his insights on how to make 2025 the year you become a climber.
Explore These 10 Great Climbing Spots in the Midwest
Explore these 10 top climbing spots in the Midwest.
Midwest Climbers Are Flocking to This Event in Southern Illinois
The Pilgrimage in Southern Illinois is a fundraiser, a multi-day party, and an essential Midwest climbing experience.
“American Rust” Actor Alex Neustaedter Talks Climbing, Surfing, and Jeff Daniels
Kansas City native and established Hollywood actor Alex Neustaedter discusses his role in the Prime Video series “American Rust” and his passion for outdoor recreation.
View All the Photos From This Year’s So iLL Showdown
Check out photos from this year’s So iLL Showdown in St. Charles, Missouri.
This Private Retreat Is a Must-Visit for Midwest Climbers
Located 65 miles south of St. Louis, Robinson Bluff is a must-visit for rock climbers.
Inside Alton’s Attempt to Make Its Riverfront a National Park
A group called AltonWorks is trying to turn the Mississippi riverfront of Alton, Illinois, into a national park — a designation that would transform the city of Alton and infuse millions of annual tourism dollars into the area.
This Park Is a Hidden Gem for Mid-Missouri Climbers
Capen Park in Columbia is one of the best-kept secrets when it comes to hiking and climbing in Missouri.