Best Places to Go Rock Climbing
For experienced climbers, the place to go in Pennsylvania is McConnells Mill State Park, nestled amidst the deep gorge of Slippery Rock Creek about 40 miles north of Pittsburgh. Designated as a National Natural Landmark, McConnell's Mill State Park is a great place for rock climbing and bouldering with two climbing and rappelling areas, Rim Road Climbing Area and Breakneck Ridge, a more advanced technical option for properly equipped and experienced climbers.Great climbing can also be found in nearby West Virginia, considered by most to be the best state for rock climbing on the East Coast. The New River Gorge National River area, located about 2 hours south of Pittsburgh in West Virginia, 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. Cooper's Rock State Forest, located 13 miles east of Morgantown, offers climbing for everyone from the beginner to the hardman, boulderer to lead climber.
Climbing Safety
Want to Learn How to Climb?
As scary as it may seem to the uninitiated, rock climbing is available to anyone interested, regardless of age or skill level. For those looking for lessons on proper climbing and safety, Pennsylvania has several indoor climbing gyms. One such facility is The Climbing Wall located on Penn Avenue in Pittsburgh. They offer a 6-week Climbing 101 course for beginners, as well as more advanced classes. Over 7000 sq. ft. of climbing surface ensures plenty of variety for safe practice and fun.For More Information:
Climbing Areas and Organizations Near Pittsburgh
