Climbing Near Clive, Iowa

Cohen Park in Des Moines underwent some improvement projects in 2023/24, one of which was the addition of a bouldering area with a total of three artificial cement boulders. While it's clear the holds/routes were not professionally set (and are not to be trusted unless you bring along your own hex key), the naturals integrated within the boulders themselves have a lot of potential for projects and routes.The boulder area has a woodchip ground cover, but a crash-pad is definitely recommended.https://www.dsm.city/business_detail_T6_R33.php The Cohen Park boulders are located in the Historic East Village area of Des Moines at 1000 Scott Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309

The majority of outdoor areas with quality rock are located on the eastern side of the state. Iowans and folks from out of state gather in great numbers at places like Pictured Rocks county park, and Indian Bluffs state wildlife management area, both near Monticello, Iowa. Backbone State park, near Strawberry Point, has a variety of climbs that are more spread out. Hoot Bluff, between Monticello and Maquoketa, Iowa, is a notable winter destination because the south-facing climbs are often warm enough for winter free climbing. In summer, Hoot as well as other spots become very hot, humid and difficult to get to when the vegetation expands and obscures trails and views. Head towards the eastern side of the state via I80 or other appropriate highway or gravel road. Most of the climbing is within 40 to 50 miles of Monticello, Iowa, which is located on Route 151. Many of the state roads are in excellent shape, but the path you take in Iowa will have many 90-degree turns. The 151 is a more direct / diagonal route in many cases. Whatever path you take, you will no-doubt see lots of flat landscape, then rolling hills. Keep the faith, and ask directions if you need to. Folks will help, and you will be rewarded with an opportunity to spend some time on quality limestone and see the hidden gems of Iowa.

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