Some areas in Bolton maintain a seasonal closure for Peregrine Nesting. Look for postings at trailheads and with www.cragvt.org.
Nearing the top of a route on one of the more remo...
Description
Bolton Valley contains more than just what's available at Lower West Bolton. In fact, there are plenty of climbing areas in Bolton Valley, which is located just 25 minutes from downtown Burlington. Unfortunately, many of these areas are located on private property, thus contain sensitive access issues. If you are new to the area, it is HIGHLY advisable to check with the locals and with www.cragvt.org before embarking on your own.
Nevertheless, when you finally figure out how to get to where you want to go, (and where NOT to go!)climbing in and around Bolton Valley can keep one busy for quite a while. The stone is schist and runs the gamut of being extremely sound to being extremely scary. There are tremendous crack routes located here, as well as some amazing gear and mixed routes on the more remote buttresses scattered throughout the valley. There are also plenty of sport routes at Bolton Quarry and peppered throughout the hills of Bolton Valley.
If you are amped to climb here, get in touch with some of the locals at one of the local climbing shops in Burlington (Outdoor Gear Exchange, Climb High, EMS, or Petra Cliffs Climbing Center) to get a guided tour. I've overheard climbers at the local gym say there is no reason to travel outside of Bolton Valley (or Vermont) to climb--I may not agree completely with that claim, but there certainly is plenty of stone and adventure to at least entertain the idea for quite a while.
Getting There
If coming from Interstate 89 (north or south), take the Richmond Exit (exit 11) and head east on Route 2. Bolton is roughly 6 miles from the exit. Lower and Upper West Bolton climbing areas are located on Bolton Access Rd.
Bolton Area
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