Rock Climbing

The subterranean wonders of westerna and central Pennsylvania come alive in the underground caves and caverns that dot the state. From Laurel Caverns near Pittsburgh to Penn's Cave near State College, we explore caving and caves in the greater Pittsburgh region.

Pennsylvania is a great state for rock climbing, with hundreds of ridges, mountains and cliffs within an easy drive. Learn where the best climbing spots, are, how to get started with rock climbing, and where to climb indoors during the winter months.

McConnell's Mill isn't the only place to climb in Western PA, though it is certainly the best known. Check out this list for lesser-known climbing areas within a reasonable drive of the Pittsburgh area.

From bouldering to leading, to shoes and harness, learn the basics of rock climbing from expert Scott Brown.

Climb North, an indoor climbing gym located in Pittsburgh's North Hills, has a 3,200 sq ft bouldering cave and 18 top rope walls. Enjoy climbing competitions, classes and open climbing time.

Located just across the PA border in WV, Coopers Rock State Park lies just off Route 68 E. 3 miles East of Cheat Lake. This park offers climbing for everyone from the beginner to the hardman, boulderer to lead climber.

Trail's Edge climbing page for Cooper's Rock contains rules and regulations, recommended gear and a good route guide.

An online guide for new climbers and veterans alike who want to try new beta and boulders at McConnell's Mill State Park. Includes recommended route lists and info for each individual block.

An excellent Web site which covers bouldering in the area of McConnell's Mill State Park, including logistics, gear, and photos and tips for many of the popular climbs.

Located about 2 hours south of Pittsburgh in WV, the New River Gorge National River area covers 63,000 acres with over 1,400 established rock climbs. Fast becoming one of the most popular climbing areas in the country, most of the routes in the gorge favor the advanced and expert climber.

The Pittsburgh Council of American Youth Hostels is a great way to experience the thrill of rock climbing whether you're new to the sport or an experienced climber.

This huge Pittsburgh climbing gym boasts 7000 sq ft of climbing surface with routes and classes in top roping, bouldering and leading. They even offer an annual American Bouldering Series Competition.

This personal page is a great place to visit for climbers in Western PA. Check out rock climbing and ice climbing links, photos, tips and more.