There are many great rock climbing location close to Chiang Mai. Being a mountainous region, northern Thailand is home to many challenging climbs, some of which have not been officially mapped out. Local knowledge is usually the main guiding reference.
San Khampaeng is 45 km from town with more than a 100 climbing routes. The most famous and popular climbing site is called Crazy Horse – a rock formation resembling a horse. Crazy Horse is 80 metres high and leads to an interesting 40 metre cave.
A lesser-known climbing site is at Chaiprakan district. Not as challenging as Crazy Horse, the site is home to a 25 metre sheer face in limestone cliffs with roughly 10 routes. Chaiprakarn is a rather scenic and rewarding experience with views of the valley, dropping away 200 metres below.
A newer climbing site is located in Chiang Rai at Mae Kok River. Called Corner Climb, it comprises five acres within a 10 minute walk of the river – which can also be viewed from the upper reaches of the rock. Most routes have never been climbed and are limestone rocks. The longest route here is about 200 feet straight up. This climbing site is a minute bicycle ride from downtown Chiang Rai and is also a rather scenic site for climbing
