Whiskey Gulch

Bouldering in Whiskey Gulch

Whiskey Gulch, just outside Butte, Montana, is the state’s premier granite bouldering destination, offering a massive spread of blocks at nearly 6,000 feet of elevation. The granite here is clean, solid, and varied, lending itself to everything from delicate slabs and crimpy traverses to proud highballs that test both strength and commitment. The layout of the boulders, scattered across grassy clearings with short approaches, makes for a relaxed atmosphere where you can move easily between sectors.

The best seasons to climb at Whiskey Gulch are spring and fall, when crisp Montana air and stable conditions provide excellent granite friction. Thanks to the orientation of the boulders, climbing is possible year-round—cold but sunny days in winter can still be productive, while summer mornings and evenings remain comfortable. What makes Whiskey Gulch distinctive is its sheer variety: hundreds of granite blocks facing every direction, opportunities for camping in the surrounding National Forest, and far fewer crowds compared to more famous U.S. areas.