Ilchester  Photos:  Recent | Best | Popular Elevation:  200' Lat, Long:  39.2506, -76.7627 Map Page Views:  4,679. Good page?    Administrators:  Frances Fierst, Tom Erickson Submitted By:  Dominic Albanese on Jul 26, 2009 Make this area a Favorite What's New   Print a Mini-Guide with routes Add Route  Add Photo  Add Comment  Add Event

BETA PHOTO: The main wall at Ilchester

Description 

Only 10 minutes outside of the beltway, with great routes Ilchester is the center of the universe for Baltimore climbers.

There are a few leads, but most climbs are set up via the concrete infused pole on top of the cliff. While exceedingly strong this can get crowded on busy days so some long static rope or webbing is a good idea just in case. Even if you use the pole you need twenty feet or so to put the TR over the edge.

The rock is generally sharp, and the well-used holds can be slippery, but often intricate sequences make for great climbing.

This is a well used/abused urban crag both by climbers as well as the community so every attempt should be made to keep relations with rangers and locals friendly.

Getting There 

Take exit 13 off of 695 for Frederick Road on the southwest side of Baltimore. Go west for 2 miles or so through the town of Catonsville. Just after the light for North Rolling Road (By the Candlight Inn) the next left will put you on Hilltop. Take this through the neighborhood (watch out for new traffic calming installations as well as cops) After a half-mile the road enters the park, park at the lot just as the road takes a sharp right.

Take the trail 1/4 mile to the top of the cliff, staying right at the fork. The trail leads to the top of the cliff. Currently the last bit of trail to the top has become extremely eroded and is even starting to effect the TR anchor. It is highly suggested to go around (it takes 10 seconds longer) to preserve both the trail and anchor.

From the top of the cliff, take a right and go around and down (past Renaissance and Midnight Lightning) to the base of the cliff.

GPS coordinates are for parking.

The Classics

Featured Route For Ilchester

Midnight Lightning 5.10+  MD : Patapsco State Park : Ilchester

Start on two crimps and crank straight up to a decent hold, before moving up and slightly left to the top.Tough first move has been made tougher due to recent graffiti, and the steep top face isnt getting any easier either. ...[more]   Browse More Classics in MD

Photos of Ilchester Slideshow

Add Photo

BETA PHOTO: The boulder at the base of Ilchester. Contains an ...	BETA PHOTO: The left side of Ilchester, housing the routes Ren...	Andrew on Blue Rose