Outdoor climbing Western MA for beginners

Hello!

My 7-year-old (and me by happy default;)) starting climbing at CRG in Hadley a couple of months ago.  He (and I) LOVE it!  We are hoping to set up a couple of trips this spring/summer for some outdoor climbing.  We would love to climb at Rose Ledge, but do not have any experience or equipment for outdoor climbing.  Is there a way to access outdoor climbing for beginners?  We are happy to pay for a guide and instruction.  

Thanks!

Sarah 

If you are starting out (especially with a young kid) and want to do it right and quickly, by far your best bet is professional instruction. You'll learn what you need to know- locations, safety, equipment, how to build top rope anchors correctly, etc. I'd contact Matt Shove of Ragged Mountain Guides in central Connecticut. He is THE guy in CT and Western MA.

Thank you Jim!  I'll keep looking for a more local guide and perhaps plan a trip down to CT some time as well.  We are planning a guided trip up to North Conway this spring with IMCS, so that is exciting.  Really wanting to climb as local as possible as well. 

Thanks Again, 

Sarah 

Would also put in a plug for Nate McKenzie at Ascent Climbing! He's not based in Western MA but I know he takes clients there/all over the Northeast.

Sarah Marchefkawrote:

Thank you Jim!  I'll keep looking for a more local guide and perhaps plan a trip down to CT some time as well.  We are planning a guided trip up to North Conway this spring with IMCS, so that is exciting.  Really wanting to climb as local as possible as well. 

Thanks Again, 

Sarah 

Ask at the gym for a “local” guide. 

climbgneiss has this to say:

Commercial Guiding

Since Rose Ledge is completely owned by FirstLight Power, climbers and other visitors are obligated to follow the rules and regulations established by the Northfield Mountain Environmental & Recreation Center. Part of these regulations include restrictions on the licensed use of Rose Ledge for professional guiding services. At this time, FirstLight and Northfield Mountain are not interested in allowing licensed use of the Ledges for commercial climbing classes or trips

Check out the AMC, they are pretty active out that way and do a top rope anchor class that would be good for you to take.