Montana climbing legend Bill Dockins claims, "Per capita, the number of routes the Helena climbers are putting up makes the rest of us look like we are sleeping."

Indeed, the spectacular canyons of the Big Belt Mountains and along the Rocky Mountain Front contain the highest concentration of quality limestone in the state. Throw in the lovely granite spires of the Elk Horn mountains west of Helena and Central Montana presents of the finest cragging areas anywhere. There are year-round crags, free camping near every venue, and a crowded day means three other parties somewhere within earshot.