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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for climbing
Crazy Horse Buttress Chiang Mai
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures for climbing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A world-class climbing destination near Chiang Mai, featuring hundreds of routes and a unique cave climbing experience.
"Climbing in the huge cave is awesome!"
🎯 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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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
Getting to Crazy Horse
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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:
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
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
Yes, you can join guided tours or daily buses organized by local climbing centers like CMRCA. They often include gear rental and transportation.
Crazy Horse Buttress is located approximately 60 kilometers outside of Chiang Mai city.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
Yes, climbing gear rental is typically available through local climbing gyms or guides. If you're joining a tour, gear is usually included.
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.
🎫 🧗 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.
Yes, there are a bunch of easier routes available for beginners. It's a great place to learn and progress, especially with a guide.
This is a massive cave with unique climbing routes. It's a memorable experience and offers a cooler environment away from the sun.
Absolutely! A popular highlight is the 50-meter rappel into one of the main caves, offering a thrilling descent.
Bring your climbing gear (if you have it), sturdy shoes, plenty of water, snacks, and mosquito repellent. Sunscreen and a hat are also advisable.
📸 📸 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.
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.
The trails leading up to the climbing areas offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The cave itself provides a dramatic backdrop for photos.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🧗 Solo Climbers
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Climbing Experience at Crazy Horse Buttress
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.
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.
Getting to and Around Crazy Horse
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.
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.
Beyond the Climb: The Surrounding Area
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.
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.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit