Climbing
Climbing in the Adirondacks
The Adirondacks have their place in the history of climbing across the country. Known for being gritty and ethics-based, the climbing here is unique. You have options, too. Much of what the Adirondacks offer are traditional climbs, with many classic routes dating back quite a few decades, some present in the big mountains of the High Peaks. There is a sprinkling of sport climbing areas, as well as some highly popular bouldering areas. In the winter, the Adirondack Mountains host world-class ice climbing routes.
Trad and sport climbing
The Adirondacks are well-known in the trad climbing world. Early ascents by legends like Henry Barber, John Case, and Fritz Wiessner have paved the way for the Adirondacks to have some of the country's toughest trad climbs (we're talking 5.14a and up). Popular crags and areas, like the Chapel Pond Pass, Pitchoff, Crane Mountain, and the High Peaks, offer a breadth of climbing from easy to hard, accessible to big approaches, and single to 10+ pitches. And while not particularly known as a sport climbing mecca, bolted lines can be found in spots like the Lake George area.
Bouldering
What may have started as "practice" for bigger climbing objectives has turned into it's own discipline of climbing throughout the last few decades. Locals enjoy bouldering areas like Mckenzie Pond in Saranac Lake, Snowy Mountain in Indian Lake, and Nine Corner Lake near Caroga Lake. Locals also love to welcome visitors to these zones, where the establishment of new problems is still occurring. A quick look through Mountain Project will also open your eyes to dozens of smaller zones and areas of new development. Bouldering at Barton Mine, Canada Lake, and in the Keene Valley area should be high on your priority list. The Adirondack Park is a premier bouldering destination, and a trip to check out the lines is a must.
Ice climbing
From massive, solitary pillars WI5 and up, to easy cragging close to the road, the Adirondacks offer ice lines for all users. The Park is undoubtedly an ice climbing destination. World-class guides who've cut their teeth all across the globe will say it, and will show you, too. Some highlights of the Adirondack Park include the roadside ice in Cascade Pass, the north face of Pitchoff, the Chapel Pond Pass area, the interior High Peaks, Poke-O-Moonshine, and Crane Mountain.
