The Best Climbing Walls at Rumney
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Rumney is a world class sport climbing destination on the outskirts of the White Mountain National Forest and one of the best climbing destinations in the US. It’s also my favorite place to climb in New England. I’ve been climbing in the northeast for years and consider Rumney to be a gem for its breadth of routes, quality rock and bolting, and accessibility.
With 38 cliffs, over 1,000 routes, and grades ranging from 5.3 to 5.15a – plus bouldering and ice climbing – you are guaranteed to find something to suit your skill level and mettle on these fine-grained schisty walls. I go as many weekends (and weekdays) as I can, and yet I’ve only managed to put a small dent in my seemingly endless to-do list.
When arrive at the quintessential New England town of Rumney, shack up at the American Alpine Club’s Rattlesnake Campground for camping and easy crag access or stay at the Barn Door Hostel for a more communal setting. For food, check out the bomber pizza at The Common Cafe & Tavern, The Last Chair (bar fare) or the Rumney Village Store (sandwiches). There is also a Hannaford’s Supermarket just off the highway.
There is so much climbing that you could easily spend lifetimes trying it all. I’ve narrowed the voluminous list to my choices for best walls so you can do more crushing and less guidebook perusing on your next trip.