Crazy Horse Buttress, Chiang Mai - A statue of a horse in a garden
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Crazy Horse Buttress Chiang Mai

4.9
·59 reviews·Ban Sa Ha Khon, Thailand

A world-class climbing destination near Chiang Mai, featuring hundreds of routes and a unique cave climbing experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Cooler months (Nov-Feb)

Pleasant temperatures for climbing

CrowdMedium
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Crazy Horse Buttress, Chiang Mai - A statue of a horse in a garden

Crazy Horse Buttress Chiang Mai

Best Time

Cooler months (Nov-Feb)

Pleasant temperatures for climbing

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A world-class climbing destination near Chiang Mai, featuring hundreds of routes and a unique cave climbing experience.

4.9
(59 reviews)

"Climbing in the huge cave is awesome!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Rent a Motorbike

For ultimate freedom, rent a motorbike (approx. 150 baht/day) to explore the area and reach the crag easily. :motorcycle:

🤝 Find a Climbing Partner

Join Thailand climbing Facebook groups to find partners or book a guided tour for a hassle-free experience. :handshake:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Anxiety State Crisis Cave

Anxiety State Crisis Cave

Inside the cave

Climb within a massive cave, offering a cool escape from the heat and unique routes.

The 50m Abseil

The 50m Abseil

Cave entrance

Experience a thrilling 50-meter rappel into one of the main caves, a highlight for many visitors.

Hundreds of Routes

Hundreds of Routes

Various cliffs and caves

Explore a vast array of bolted routes catering to all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.

Planning Your Visit

Gear Up for Adventure

Bring your own climbing gear if you have it, but rentals are available. Don't forget sturdy shoes for hiking and mosquito repellent for the jungle environment. Consider booking a guide for a seamless experience, especially if you're solo.

Getting to Crazy Horse

While renting a motorbike offers flexibility, consider the red truck shuttle from Progression Vertical gym or a bus from the old city for a more budget-friendly and less stressful journey to this climbing paradise.

Best Times

When
Cooler months (Nov-Feb)
Why
Pleasant temperatures for climbing
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more routes
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Chiang Mai is one of my favorite places in Thailand! There is SO much to do and these are 8 things you should add you your list: 1. Sticky waterfalls 2. Ethical elephant sanctuary (we went to Joy Elephant Sanctuary but there are a ton to choose from so do your research before) 3. Quad biking 4. Hike Monk’s Trail 5. North Gate Jazz Co-Op 6. Watch a Muay Thai fight 7. Visit the Carp Cafe 8. Baan Kan...
@mayasgoingplaces
23.7K likes • 306K views

🎯 Rent a Motorbike

For ultimate freedom, rent a motorbike (approx. 150 baht/day) to explore the area and reach the crag easily. :motorcycle:

🤝 Find a Climbing Partner

Join Thailand climbing Facebook groups to find partners or book a guided tour for a hassle-free experience. :handshake:

5 Hidden Gems in Chiang Mai: 1. Phar Chor Canyon 2. Fah Lanna Spa 3. My Forest Cafe 4. Tweechol Botanical Gardens 5. The Giant Treehouse See my previous posts on Phar Chor Canyon and Fah Lanna Spa for more information about these places 🥰 Tweechol Botanical Gardens is about 30 minutes away from Old City. Entrance fee is 86 Baht. It costs 75 Baht (2 USD) to rent a bicycle for 3 hours, 350 Baht (10)...
@alikainwanderlust
22.6K likes • 643.9K views
"A Wild Ride on a Crazy Horse" 8a+ ✅ CRAZY HORSE BUTTRESS... Chiang Mai 🇹🇭 @blackdiamondth #liveclimbrepeat @lasportivath #ForYourMountain #WeAreClimbers
ozzyauswin7
135 likes • 2.5K views

🦟 Beat the Bugs

Don't forget mosquito repellent! It's essential for enjoying your time, especially in the jungle surroundings. :bug:

💧 Stay Cool in the Cave

The Anxiety State Crisis cave offers a refreshing escape from the heat, with unique climbing routes inside. :snowflake:

“เดินป่า ปีนผา สัมผัสถ้ำ…เปิดประสบการณ์ใหม่ที่เชียงใหม่” เชียงใหม่ไม่ได้มีแค่ดอยดัง แต่ยังมีผาม้าพยศและถ้ำเมืองออน รอให้ค้นหา จากหน้าผาสู่ถ้ำลึก การเดินทางครั้งนี้คือการพบธรรมชาติหลากมิติ . #Creatordigital #Creator #fyp #reels #reelsinstagram #tiktok #Crazy #Crazyhorse #CrazyhorseClimbing #Buttress #CrazyhorseButtress #Chiangmai #ReviewChiangmai #ครีเอเตอร์ #ครีเอเตอร์มือใหม่ #ครีเอเตอร์ติดกระแส #...
jameslegendx
28 likes • 998 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Rent a Motorbike

For ultimate freedom, rent a motorbike (approx. 150 baht/day) to explore the area and reach the crag easily. :motorcycle:

🤝 Find a Climbing Partner

Join Thailand climbing Facebook groups to find partners or book a guided tour for a hassle-free experience. :handshake:

🦟 Beat the Bugs

Don't forget mosquito repellent! It's essential for enjoying your time, especially in the jungle surroundings. :bug:

💧 Stay Cool in the Cave

The Anxiety State Crisis cave offers a refreshing escape from the heat, with unique climbing routes inside. :snowflake:

🚎 Red Truck Shuttle

Opt for the red truck shuttle from Progression Vertical gym for a convenient and affordable ride to Crazy Horse. :bus:

What Travellers Say

4.9
(59 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Crazy Horse Buttress, praising its vast number of routes and the unique experience of climbing within a massive cave. The solid bolting and variety of challenges are frequently mentioned positives. However, some note that the area can be less appealing for extremely advanced climbers, and transportation logistics require some planning.

"An absolutely awesome crag, with hundreds of routes, the bolting seeming very solid, and lots of variety in climbs. You can find the CragFinder app for the area or hire a guide through the local climbing gym (Progression).

I went with a guide in the intro tour as I didn’t have a climbing partner and I can’t recommend it enough. Full day of climbing starting out with some warm ups, and ending with a 50m repel/abseil into one of the main caves.

The day probably varies a little based on the strength of the group, but the guides are happy to accommodate. Guides very professional and safe, equipment was in good shape and their technique was solid, no concerns."

Etienne R

"Great experience climbing here. Came with CMRCA. SO many routes (hundreds, I think). Rain in the forecast? Climb in the cave.

Breathtaking views. Variety of challenges. Bring mosquito repellent and spend the whole day."

Riki Kibbe

"We went in late February 2024 and crazy horse remains open to public. The guide said it was closed for a brief period as some accidents had happened. We paid for the red truck and it was a seamless journey from the progression vertical gym to Crazy Horse."

Reaching for the Stars

What People Like

Hundreds of routes
Cave climbing experience
Solid bolting

What People Dislike

Limited for elite climbers
Transportation planning needed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can rent a motorbike (around 60km from Chiang Mai) for flexibility, or take a red truck shuttle from Progression Vertical gym. A bus from the old city to the hot springs can also drop you near the crag. Some travelers recommend staying at Jira's Guesthouse for proximity. Reddit+1

Yes, there's a bus/van service that goes to and from the hot springs from Chiang Mai's old city. You can ask to be dropped off at Jira's Guesthouse, which is close to the crag. Reddit

The bus from the old city to the hot springs, with a drop-off near Jira's Guesthouse, is often cited as a good budget option. Renting a motorbike can also be cost-effective if you're comfortable riding in Thai traffic. Reddit+1

Yes, you can join guided tours or daily buses organized by local climbing centers like CMRCA. They often include gear rental and transportation. Reddit+1

Crazy Horse Buttress is located approximately 60 kilometers outside of Chiang Mai city. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While the crag has been open, there might be transportation fees. Some sources mention a price of 150 baht one way and 200 baht round trip for shuttle services. It's best to confirm current rates with local providers. Reddit

Information on specific entrance fees is scarce, but transportation costs to reach the crag are a primary consideration. Local guides or gyms can provide the most up-to-date details. Reddit

Crazy Horse Buttress is generally open to the public, though it has experienced temporary closures in the past due to accidents. It's advisable to check with local climbing communities or gyms for the most current status. TikTokInstagram

Yes, climbing gear rental is typically available through local climbing gyms or guides. If you're joining a tour, gear is usually included. Reddit

While it's possible to climb independently if you have a partner and your own gear, hiring a guide is highly recommended, especially for first-time visitors, to ensure safety and maximize the experience. Reddit+1

🎫 🧗 Onsite Experience

Crazy Horse Buttress boasts hundreds of routes, with many in the 5.10-5.11+ range, and some easier options for beginners. The Anxiety State Crisis cave offers unique climbs within a massive cavern. Reddit+1

Yes, there are a bunch of easier routes available for beginners. It's a great place to learn and progress, especially with a guide. Reddit+1

This is a massive cave with unique climbing routes. It's a memorable experience and offers a cooler environment away from the sun. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! A popular highlight is the 50-meter rappel into one of the main caves, offering a thrilling descent. Reddit

Bring your climbing gear (if you have it), sturdy shoes, plenty of water, snacks, and mosquito repellent. Sunscreen and a hat are also advisable. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The dramatic rock formations, the vastness of the cave, and climbers in action provide stunning photographic opportunities. Capture the scale of the cliffs and the unique cave environment. Instagram+1

Information on drone usage is not readily available. It's best to check local regulations or inquire with the climbing center or guides before flying a drone. TikTok

The trails leading up to the climbing areas offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The cave itself provides a dramatic backdrop for photos. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the buttress and the cave. A telephoto lens can be useful for action shots of climbers. Instagram

With a bit of patience and the right vantage point, you can capture exciting action shots. Guides can often point out good spots or even assist with timing. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Crazy Horse Buttress can be an exciting adventure for families, especially those with older children interested in outdoor activities. While the climbing itself requires supervision and appropriate safety measures, the unique environment of the cave can be fascinating for younger explorers. Consider booking a family-friendly guided tour that can accommodate different skill levels and ensure everyone's safety. Instagram

Beyond climbing, the journey to Crazy Horse can be an adventure in itself. Opting for a shuttle service or a scenic motorbike ride can be part of the fun. Remember to pack plenty of snacks, water, and mosquito repellent for the entire family. The surrounding area of Chiang Mai also offers numerous kid-friendly attractions, making it a great base for a family vacation. TikTokReddit

🧗 Solo Climbers

For solo climbers, Crazy Horse Buttress presents both opportunities and considerations. While it's possible to find partners through local climbing Facebook groups or by visiting climbing gyms like CMRCA, booking a guided tour is often the most straightforward and safest option. Guides can provide not only a partner but also invaluable local knowledge and ensure you access the best routes. Reddit+1

If you opt for independent climbing, ensure you have all your necessary gear and are familiar with the area. Renting a motorbike offers flexibility for exploring and reaching the crag. Remember that safety is paramount, and it's always wise to inform someone of your plans. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Crazy Horse Buttress can be an affordable climbing destination if planned wisely. While guided tours and private transport can add up, opting for the red truck shuttle or the bus service from the old city to the hot springs significantly reduces transportation costs. Reddit+1

Consider packing your own climbing gear if possible, as rentals can add to the daily expense. Staying at budget-friendly guesthouses like Jira's Homestay, located near the crag, can also save money compared to staying in central Chiang Mai. For food, exploring local markets and street food stalls will be much cheaper than tourist-oriented restaurants. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Climbing Experience at Crazy Horse Buttress

Crazy Horse Buttress is a renowned climbing destination near Chiang Mai, offering a diverse range of routes for all skill levels. With hundreds of bolted climbs, it caters to beginners looking for their first ascents and experienced climbers seeking challenging grades. The area is particularly famous for its unique cave climbing, providing a cool and shaded environment, especially during hotter months. Reddit+1

Many visitors highlight the Anxiety State Crisis cave as a must-do, featuring impressive routes within a massive cavern. The 50-meter abseil into this cave is another unforgettable experience. The bolting is generally considered solid, and the variety of climbs ensures that climbers can spend an entire day exploring different sections of the buttress. InstagramReddit

For those without a partner or gear, local climbing centers like CMRCA and Progression Vertical offer guided tours, equipment rental, and transportation. These services are highly recommended for a safe and enjoyable experience, especially for first-time visitors. Reddit+1

Getting to and Around Crazy Horse

Reaching Crazy Horse Buttress from Chiang Mai involves a journey of about 60 kilometers. While renting a motorbike offers the most freedom and is a popular choice for those comfortable with Thai traffic, it's not the only option. Reddit

Several shuttle services are available. The red truck shuttle from Progression Vertical gym is a convenient and recommended option. Alternatively, a bus service from Chiang Mai's old city to the hot springs can drop you off near the base of the road leading to Crazy Horse. Some travelers suggest staying at Jira's Guesthouse, located conveniently close to the crag. Reddit

For those seeking a guided experience, local climbing organizations often provide transportation as part of their tour packages, which can be a hassle-free way to get to the crag, especially if you're traveling solo. Reddit

Beyond the Climb: The Surrounding Area

While Crazy Horse Buttress is primarily a climbing destination, the surrounding region of Chiang Mai offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences and natural beauty. Visitors can explore vibrant local markets, ancient temples, and enjoy the renowned Thai cuisine. TikTokInstagram

Chiang Mai itself is a hub for adventure, with attractions like the sticky waterfalls, ethical elephant sanctuaries, and numerous unique cafes. The proximity of Crazy Horse to these other attractions makes it possible to combine a climbing trip with broader exploration of what Northern Thailand has to offer. TikTok+1

For climbers looking for a complete holiday, Chiang Mai provides a blend of thrilling outdoor activities and cultural immersion, making it a well-rounded destination. Instagram

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