If You’re a Rock Climber, Here’s Your Day in Billings, Montana

Rock climbing in Billings is as iconic as the formations you’re climbing. The Rimrocks (aka The Rims) are towering sandstone cliffs that wrap around the city, hundreds of feet tall and 80 million years old. Let’s just say you’re clipping in on an ancient seabed landmark...seriously. If you haven’t guessed already – there’s some serious climbing to be had.
 
Need an itinerary for a full day of climbing and exploration in Billings, Montana? Here's your day:
 
 
MORNING: START EARLY AT GREGORY HILLS
You'll start big with the highest concentration of routes in Billings. The Gregory Hills Area delivers 90+ routes along The Rims cliff face above Gregory Hills neighborhood, keeping you busy all morning with everything from mellow 5.5 slabs to burly 5.12 face climbs. Expect a mix of sport, trad, and top-rope lines!
 
Pro tip: Get there early to beat the heat and respect neighborhood parking. From Rimrock Rd, take Gregory Drive and follow it to Gregory Dr North and Rockwood Circle to access Gregory Hills. You’ll find the approach trail at the end of Rockwood Circle.
 
Rock Climbing Blog Gregory Hills Billings MT
 
 
LUNCH: FUEL UP AT SPITZ
When the sun gets high enough and starts to bake the south-facing walls, it's time for lunch at Spitz in Shiloh Crossing. This Mediterranean spot will fuel your body properly with fresh, healthy options that won't weigh you down for the afternoon session.
 
Rock Climbing Blog Spitz Billings MT
 
AFTERNOON: GEAR UP AND COOL DOWN
While you’re in the area, take a break indoors and wander into REI or Scheels to grab what you need or simply browse - trust us, you could spend hours roaming the aisles.
 
Rock Climbing Blog Scheels Billings MT
 
Or, if you’re feeling restless, get some gear and an indoor climbing session in at Steepworld Climbing & Fitness, with 40+ foot rope walls, two bouldering areas, a yoga studio, and even a full fitness mezzanine.
 
Rock Climbing Blog Steepworld Billings MT
 
DINNER: HANG OUT AT DIAMOND X
Now that you’ve explored Billings more, let's grab a proper brewski and dinner at Diamond X Beer Co. Post up on the patio with games like corn hole, or relax in the airy, barn-style space. This spot pairs craft beer with a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for swapping stories about the day’s adventures.
 
Rock Climbing Blog Diamond X Billings MT
 
EVENING: SUNSET SESSION AT PHIPPS PARK
Close out the day at Phipps Park, where sandstone boulders glow in the evening light. Expect everything from easy V0 boulders to overhanging V9 sloper problems, all while sunset views stretch across rolling hills toward the Beartooth Mountains, and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a train cutting through the valley as the sky fades.
 
Rock Climbing Blog Phipps Park Billings MT
 
Pro tip: Pro tip: From Rimrock Rd/HWY 302, turn right on 62nd St W. After crossing under the train tracks, the trailhead is on the left. Park in the lot and follow the trails in.
 
And there you have it! If you’re not tired yet from a day well spent, head downtown for some Billings nightlife – catch live music, grab dessert, or cruise the Billings Brew Trail, Montana’s only walkable brew trail!
 
Ready to send it? Billings is waiting for you and your crew. Start planning at VisitBillings.com.
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