Rock Climbing Trips at Interstate State Park

Climb Basalt on the St. Croix River

Interstate State Park is situated along the beautiful St. Croix River, a nationally designated Wild and Scenic River. Technically two state parks, one in Minnesota and one in Wisconsin, Interstate it is one of the most popular Minnesota climbing areas due to its proximity to the Twin Cities as well as the stunning scenery, easy access to the cliffs, and high quality rock. If you haven’t experienced Taylors Fall rock climbing, you’re in for a treat when you visit.

Pick Your pleasure

Many Minnesota climbers experience their first outdoor climbs at Taylors Falls, learning to top-rope on the solid gray/black volcanic basalt. The variety and number of routes here (over 150) is enough to keep even seasoned climbers coming back. There are no bolts or fixed anchors allowed at Interstate State Park, therefore all rock climbing here is “traditional” in style, where climbers place their own protection as they lead from the ground up. Alternatively, climbers can set anchors at the top of the cliffs for top-roping. In addition to roped climbing routes, numerous high-quality boulder problems can be found throughout the Taylors Fall climbing areas.

Taylors Falls Enjoys a Long Climbing Season

Because Taylors Falls enjoys both west and east facing bluffs, the rock climbing season is longer here than at other Minnesota crags. An early spring or late fall day with temps in the 40’s can be quite comfortable in the sun on the Minnesota Strip, and on hotter days there is plenty of shade to be found at several of the cliffs on the Wisconsin side. 

You’ll Be Glad You Visited

Interstate State Park is popular for tourists in addition to climbers, with miles of hiking trails, camping, riverboat tours, canoe and kayak paddling, wildlife and bird viewing, spring wildflowers and gorgeous fall colors. This is not the place to go for solitude! However if you want high-quality rock climbing trips, easy access and eye-popping scenery, Taylors Fall rock climbing can’t be beat.