There aren’t many climbing spots like this in the world! Nested at the foot of the mountains, where the James River meets downtown Richmond, the Manchester Wall has delighted both rookie and experienced climbers alike with its excellent accessibility and the sheer diversity of the granite block climbs it offers. The Wall, and its three adjacent pillars, remnants of the long-gone Richmond and Petersburg Railroad Bridge, abound with thrilling routes on stone bridge abutments, climbable on top rope, sport, trad or mixed. It’s not often that you get to climb a piece of history, which is why climbing in Richmond is an opportunity you can’t afford to miss!
43 amazing and diverse routes for climbers of all skill levels
Spectacular views that will motivate you to keep climbing
Ideal location for seasoned climbers to try out new climbing sports
Your adventure begins with you meeting up with your guide, who will get you set up with a harness, helmet, climbing shoes, and all the climbing gear you will need for the day. Your guide will determine your climbing skill and goals, and tailor a perfect climbing experience for you. You will then take a short drive and a 5-25 minute hike to the approaches. Once there, your guide will set up all the ropes for you. All that’s left to do is to make some goals and objectives for the day, and climb on!
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 travelling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Richmond, Virginia, please refer to the Official Virginia Department of Health COVID-19 update site.
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!
What you get on this adventure:
What’s not included:
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.
Richmond 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, Richmond 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:
Here’s a list of the equipment we suggest you bring:
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:
Climbing days in Richmond can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking.
Min. age requirements:
If your group has climbers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
Richmond, VA has an international airport accessible from other international airports around the world. It’s also an approximately two hour drive away from Washington, DC.
Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, whether that’s at the guide shop or a predetermined location. The guide will choose the appropriate terrain dependent on conditions and the ability of the group.
