Rhode Island, Rock Climber's Paradise

Although our highest point is only 805 feet above sea level, Rhode Island has a long history of rock climbing, and some interesting places to ascend.

DISCLAIMER: Rock climbing and associated activities are intrinsically dangerous. Participation could lead to injury or even death. Rocks fall, routes change, equipment slips, accidents happen. You should not participate in rock climbing without professional instruction and guidance.

That being said, perhaps the first resource to check out is the Narragansett Chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club The AMC promotes the protection, enjoyment and wise use of the mountains, rivers, and trails of the Northeast. They offer all sorts of outdoor events (including climbing and bouldering), a message board, a newsletter, and most importantly, a community.


Local climber Brian Phillips has created a labor of love-- a fairly extensive website all about Rhode Island climbing. Visit his website to read a history of Rhode Island climbing (including a 1935 article in Appalachia magazine!), find out about places in Rhode Island to climb, and even see a list of mountain equipment stores. This site is HIGHLY recommended


Another local climber Randy Hill (great name for a climber, yes?) has created a webpage about building an indoor rock wall in your own home. He covers such issues as smoothing the cement, tilting the wall, and even creating hand and footholds. Visit that page here


If building your own wall is too daunting for you, you may want to visit the Rhode Island Rock Gym in Lincoln Rhode Island instead. They bill themselves as New England's premier rock gym, with over 10,000 square feet of climbing area, 30 foot walls, 50+ rope stations, and indoor bouldering. They offer instructional classes, private tutoring, competitive events, and even a lounge where you can sit back in a comfortable chair, drink a fizzy drink, and watch others make the ascent.