Buzzard Rocks makes for a great day or weekend adventure. The cliff faces West and you get full exposure to the valley below. If you're going to climb in the summer, mornings are the best suggestion. The face will stay cool for you until early afternoon. If you're going to climb in the winter you need to stick with afternoons and evenings. The great exposure to the sun will keep you warm and keep you climbing. There are around 25 registered routes, nothing that goes above 5.10. That makes this a great area for new leaders and weekend warriors. Bring a light rack and set of quick draws. Most climbs are bolted with a few exceptions. Bring your own water, it will be a long walk back to the car if you run out.
Getting There
From the East- Take I-66 West to Route 55 West towards Front Royal. Stay on 55 West until the town of Waterlick. Turn left onto Powells Fort Road (Route 678). Drive about 1.2 miles on 678 then turn left onto Mountain Road (Route 619). You will pass a fish hatchery. Stay on the road for 1.2 miles. You will come to a Buzzard Rock trailhead parking lot on the right. Pay attention cause it's easy to miss. After parking follow the hiker sign and begin the two mile hike to Buzzard Rock. Follow the white trail blaze.
When you reach the top of the ridge, there is a trail that descends to the right. This is the cliff base trail. It isn't well defined, but it is very easy to follow. If you miss the trail you can rap down to it from any number of trees on the ridge.
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