A Guide To Rock Climbing in Norhern Thailand - It's the guidebook for climbing in Northern Thailand. Loaded with information on lodging and transportation, it's essential for your trip to Crazy Horse Buttress. Pick one up at the CMRCA shop!
An area near Meuang On Cave was discovered for climbing by Kraisak Boonthip (Pi Tom) in October of 1998. Along with a few friends, Pi Tom established six routes on the main face. In October of 1999, Josh Morris moved to Thailand to teach English at Payap University. One of the English Department majors, Joe Yannawut, had helped Pi Tom with the development and pointed Josh to the area.
Climbing at Crazy Horse is an entertaining experience at any level. The rock tends towards the technically vertical and slightly overhanging with a few wildly steep routes thrown in because, hey, we are in Thailand.
Situation 1:
Oh no! You drive all the way out to Crazy Horse before realizing that your rope isn’t in your bag. There is no one else around to share a rope with.
You could 1) spend the next two hours driving back and forth from Chiang Mai; 2) just go back to the city and sulk; or 3) consider it an opportunity to see what else the area has to offer. We hope you’d choose the latter.
With its short approach and fine bathroom facilities and lunch huts, Crazy Horse Buttress may not feel like its in the middle of the wilderness. But the bugs and accompanying wildlife are a fine reminder that you are in an exotic location. Be aware of the following creatures that you might meet out at the crag:
Rest days are an essential part of climbing and thankfully in Chiang Mai, there's more than enough going on to keep you having fun on those days off. Here are a few ideas to get you started. For a more thorough collection of possibilities, browse the CMRCA Adventurer's Guide to Chiang Mai.
Chiang Mai is conveniently located in the rolling foothills of the Himalayas. This leads to a much milder climate than that of Bangkok and Southern Thailand. Chiang Mai's climate is one of its best attractions; the mild climate allows for open-air restaurants, fantastic outdoor adventure opportunities, and a low energy bill (aircon really isn't necessary).
There are three distinct seasons in Chiang Mai: the Rainy Season, the Cold Season, and the Dry Season. It is possible to climb during all of these, each offering different benefits.