What you get on this adventure: An experienced, local rock-climbing guide with extensive knowledge of the area A half or full day of rock climbing depending on your chosen itinerary All technical climbing gear What’s not included: Transportation Accommodations Food and snacks Guide gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

If you can climb a ladder, you’re good to go. Being in good shape is always a plus but far from necessary. Rock climbing is all about using good movement technique rather than muscling up a cliff using brute strength. To ensure you have a fun day, your guide will choose routes that best suit your skill and fitness level. Intermediate tours require prior experience climbing single or multi-pitch routes in a gym. Experience with climbing outside is a big plus but not required. Advanced tours require previous experience, some comfort with sport climbing, trad climbing, rappelling and cleaning gear.

What if I’ve never climbed before?

North Conway has plenty of options for beginner climbers. Whether you’ve never climbed before or are transitioning from the gym to outdoor climbing, your guide will customize the day to suit your skill level and objectives. With a guide by your side, you’ll learn something new, stay safe on the rocks, and most importantly, have fun! For intermediate to advanced climbers, North Conway has loads of routes to spend the day on. Your guide will discuss your objectives and customize the day to your goals. Let your guide plan the day so you can focus on developing your skills while climbing the classic routes or best hidden gems the area has to offer.

What about required equipment?

All technical climbing equipment will be provided by your guiding service. However, if you have your own gear, feel free to bring it. You’ll need: Helmet Harness with a locking carabiner, belay device, and chalk bag Climbing shoes Ropes Climbing hardware (quickdraws, cam devices, stoppers, etc.) Here’s a list of the equipment we suggest you bring: Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 40L bag) Rock shoes (can be rented, but we recommend bringing your own if you have them) Water bottle Food you can eat on-the-go Toiletries (sunscreen, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.) Sunglasses Camera — optional Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: For Intro to Rock Climbing tours, the usual client to guide ratio is 6:1 and cost is per person. For the Intermediate and Advanced Rock Climbing tours, the usual client to guide ratio is 3:1 and cost is per person. Costs per person decrease as the group grows, so it’s the perfect opportunity to climb with friends and family. Climbing days can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking. Min. age requirements: If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to climb on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has climbers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Getting there and meeting location

To get to North Conway, most people fly into Portland International Airport in Maine or Concord Municipal Airport in New Hampshire. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service. North Conway is only about an hour and a half away and all the climbing sites are located in Echo Lake State Park, less than 10 minutes away from the city center. Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet. The exact climbing spot will be discussed after the booking as guides make that decision after considering the skill level of the group and factors such as crag traffic and weather.

Every venue is condition-dependent. Your guide will pick the best suitable place according to your skills, experience and goals. Some of the classic climbing venues around New Hampshire include: Cathedral Ledge Whitehorse Ledge Humprey’s Ledge Franconia Notch Mt. Willard Crawford Notch Rumney Zealand Valley Mt. Oscar Sugarloaf

Safety measures in North Conway

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance. With medical insurance, if you have an accident or medical emergency on or off the mountain, you’ll avoid paying out of pocket for costly expenses. This covers everything from hospital treatments to emergency air transportation and more. Travel insurance covers canceled flights, natural disasters and other scenarios that may interrupt your travel plans. 57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, guides and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on safety measures in North Conway, New Hampshire, please refer to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services website. Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!

Covid measures in North Conway

57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity. We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, guides, and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in North Conway, New Hampshire, please refer to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services website. Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!

Guided Rock Climbing Tours in North Conway, NH

Single-pitch climbing on high cliffs of North Conway

Cliffs of the Cathedral Ledge under the warm glow of golden hour

Cathedral Ledge in North Conway from a distance

A climber in climbing gear on sharp granite cliffs in North Conway

A person climbing the Whitney-Gilman ridge

North Conway | New Hampshire

Rock Climbing in North Conway

5.00 ()

Season

Late April through late November

Nearest city

Portland, ME, and Concord, NH, are just over hour and a half away

Duration

1 day

Skill level

Beginner to advanced

Guides

Willard Mountain Guides, John Willard, Eastern Mountain Sports Schools

From $225 () / 1 day

Got any questions?

Overview
Itinerary
Brochure
Guides
Reviews
Things to know

North Conway is the most popular climbing destination of New England with hundreds of easily accessible routes in the vicinity. Two of the best cliffs in the granite state of New Hampshire are Cathedral Ledge and Whitehorse Ledge, just minutes from the city center! The super solid granite, multi-pitch routes as long as 1000 feet, and abundance of stunning vistas make this area perfect for any rock climbing enthusiast no matter the skill level! The abundance of sport and trad routes ranging from 5.5 to 5.11d definitely won’t leave anyone indifferent. After you’re done climbing for the day, make the experience even better by visiting the town and enjoying the vibrant local atmosphere!

Perfect for short outings

Quick and easy access to numerous classic rock climbing venues
Everyone is welcome

Side-by-side cliffs offer hundreds of options for all skill levels
Vibrant local atmosphere

Create new perspectives, enjoy the challenge, and make friends along the way

Available itineraries

Half-Day Intro to Outdoor Rock Climbing

Step into the world of rock climbing with an experienced guide! Over just a few hours, your guide will lead you through your first single-pitch climb—from putting on a harness to belaying and best beginner techniques. No prior climbing experience is necessary and it’s suitable for solo climbers, families and groups alike!
From $225
Max 6:1

Full-Day Intro to Outdoor Rock Climbing

Master the fundamentals of outdoor rock climbing on North Conway’s fantastic granite
Your seasoned local guide will teach you everything from putting on a harness, all about relevant equipment, knots, terminology, and anything else that’s needed to get you ready for the rocks. Then, you’ll spend the bulk of the day testing your newfound skills on North Conway’s finest beginner-friendly routes.
From $375
Max 6:1

Full Day of Intermediate Rock Climbing

This full day of climbing is designed to help you start leading routes, both sport and traditional. Go over different types of rock protection with your guide, learn how to place the gear, how to clean it, go over anchor construction, etc. After an intro to new skills, you will practice them under the guide’s watchful eye, start mock leading and potentially lead independently by the end of the day!
From $375
Max 3:1

Full Day of Advanced Rock Climbing

Advanced rock climbing tours are designed for those with some experience climbing and leading who want to take the next step in their climbing. Depending on your goal, you can climb classics, learn how to set up top ropes, become more efficient with multi-pitch, or master setting up rappels. Your guides will make sure to adjust your itinerary and venue to your group.
From $400
Max 3:1

A Customized Full Day of Private Climbing With a Guide

Use your time on the solid granite cliffs of North Conway to further develop and perfect your skills. This custom day is a perfect opportunity for beginners looking to master the fundamentals of climbing, as well as for the more advanced climbers looking for a challenge — the area is famous for its multi-pitch climbs! With so many options to choose from, it’s best to let your local guide lead the way — they will tailor the day to fit your goals and make sure you make the most of your time.
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Meet your guides

5.00

The main goal of WMG is to provide the best guiding service, climbing experience, and fun to anyone who is willing to learn and experience the outdoors. They are here to help others gain their full potential through climbing. Experience new things, create new perspectives and enjoy the physical and mental challenges under their watchful eye!

5.00

John Willard

Lead Guide and Founder of WMG

John has climbed, hiked, and backpacked in numerous states across the United States and has worked in the Cascades guiding on bigger mountains and objectives. With a B.S in Outdoor Education, Leadership and Tourism, as well as multiple AMGA and AIARE certifications, he is the perfect company in the outdoors.

5.00

The Eastern Mountain Sports Climbing School is the oldest climbing school in the East, and has been offering technical rock climbing instruction outdoors since 1968. The EMS is fully accredited by the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) and all climbing instructors are AMGA-Certified as Single Pitch Instructors, or higher. EMS Climbing Guides have technical knowledge and experience to deliver the most up-to-date instruction, but also ensure that their customers are enjoying their adventures to the fullest.

5.00 (6 reviews)

Edward S (source: TripAdvisor)

My daughter and I did a whole day of rock climbing. We’ve done climbing before, not too much and we were thinking this would be similar. It wasn’t. Our abilities and ideas of what we could do were challenged and pushed to the limits. I do mean this in the best possible way. Had this been an average day of top rope rock climbing I think both of us would be happy going to the rock gym six or seven times a year with the occasional trip outdoors. We did two four pitch climbs with a combined elevation gain of 800 feet. After this both of us are hooked and want to learn more and do more.

Jim S. (source: TripAdvisor)

My wife and I booked a day of ice climbing with EMS. We have climbed all over the world and I wasn’t expecting too much in my own backyard. But it was awesome. Our guide ranked in the top 3 of guides we have ever had. He customized our day so that we didn’t spend a lot of time going over stuff we already knew. He picked out some climbs that challenged our abilities but were not so hard that we didn’t have a blast the whole time. He even stayed late to let us get in an extra pitch. He was very knowledgeable and we felt totally safe the whole time. And George in the office was great at organizing the trip. I would definitely recommend EMS climbing school in North Conway to anyone no matter what your level of expertise.

Catherine X (source: TripAdvisor)

Had a great day repelling on Cathedral Ledge. Keith was an amazing coach and teacher. Highly recommend the experience.

Dalton J (source: Guide’s website)

My first guided experience in the mountains was with John and I can confidently recommend him to anyone! He was knowledgeable, experienced, and tailored the course to my abilities/skills. I felt safe the entire time and learned sooo much through his guiding and teaching. 100% recommended.

Sherman B (source: Guide’s website)

John brings the stoke! He’s a great instructor who brings a ton of enthusiasm for climbing and creates a supportive environment for learning.

Diana Porter

John was very skilled and kind and made sure we had a full day of climbing and learning climbing skills as needed. Cathedral ledge is a beautiful and a classic cliff.

Things to know

What you get on this adventure:
- - An experienced, local rock-climbing guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - A half or full day of rock climbing depending on your chosen itinerary
  - All technical climbing gear
What’s not included:
- - Transportation
  - Accommodations
  - Food and snacks
  - Guide gratuities — optional
If you can climb a ladder, you’re good to go. Being in good shape is always a plus but far from necessary. Rock climbing is all about using good movement technique rather than muscling up a cliff using brute strength. To ensure you have a fun day, your guide will choose routes that best suit your skill and fitness level.

Intermediate tours require prior experience climbing single or multi-pitch routes in a gym. Experience with climbing outside is a big plus but not required.

Advanced tours require previous experience, some comfort with sport climbing, trad climbing, rappelling and cleaning gear.
North Conway has plenty of options for beginner climbers. Whether you’ve never climbed before or are transitioning from the gym to outdoor climbing, your guide will customize the day to suit your skill level and objectives. With a guide by your side, you’ll learn something new, stay safe on the rocks, and most importantly, have fun!

For intermediate to advanced climbers, North Conway has loads of routes to spend the day on. Your guide will discuss your objectives and customize the day to your goals. Let your guide plan the day so you can focus on developing your skills while climbing the classic routes or best hidden gems the area has to offer.
All technical climbing equipment will be provided by your guiding service. However, if you have your own gear, feel free to bring it. You’ll need:
- - Helmet
  - Harness with a locking carabiner, belay device, and chalk bag
  - Climbing shoes
  - Ropes
  - Climbing hardware (quickdraws, cam devices, stoppers, etc.)
  - Here’s a list of the equipment we suggest you bring:
  - Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 40L bag)
  - Rock shoes (can be rented, but we recommend bringing your own if you have them)
  - Water bottle
  - Food you can eat on-the-go
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  - Sunglasses
  - Camera — optional
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
Group sizes and prices:
- - For Intro to Rock Climbing tours, the usual client to guide ratio is 6:1 and cost is per person.
  - For the Intermediate and Advanced Rock Climbing tours, the usual client to guide ratio is 3:1 and cost is per person.
  - Costs per person decrease as the group grows, so it’s the perfect opportunity to climb with friends and family.
Climbing days can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking.

Min. age requirements:
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to climb on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has climbers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To get to North Conway, most people fly into Portland International Airport in Maine or Concord Municipal Airport in New Hampshire. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service. North Conway is only about an hour and a half away and all the climbing sites are located in Echo Lake State Park, less than 10 minutes away from the city center.

Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet. The exact climbing spot will be discussed after the booking as guides make that decision after considering the skill level of the group and factors such as crag traffic and weather.
Every venue is condition-dependent. Your guide will pick the best suitable place according to your skills, experience and goals.

Some of the classic climbing venues around New Hampshire include:
- - Cathedral Ledge
  - Whitehorse Ledge
  - Humprey’s Ledge
  - Franconia Notch
  - Mt. Willard
  - Crawford Notch
  - Rumney
  - Zealand Valley
  - Mt. Oscar
  - Sugarloaf
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance. With medical insurance, if you have an accident or medical emergency on or off the mountain, you’ll avoid paying out of pocket for costly expenses. This covers everything from hospital treatments to emergency air transportation and more.

Travel insurance covers canceled flights, natural disasters and other scenarios that may interrupt your travel plans.

57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, guides and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on safety measures in North Conway, New Hampshire, please refer to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services website.

Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!
57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.

We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, guides, and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in North Conway, New Hampshire, please refer to the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services website.

Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!