Bouldering in Rhode Island

Lincoln Woods, Lincoln

Although this is the smallest state in New England (and the country) it has one of the best bouldering areas: Lincoln Woods. Due to its more southern locale, Lincoln Woods is usually one of the first areas that becomes climbable in the late winter/early spring. Click here for a photo guide to Lincoln Woods and here for a listing of open projects at the woods.

Joe McLoughlin nearing the top of The Cave Traverse, V2, at the Pond Cave at Lincoln Woods.
Photo by Harrison Shull.

Lincoln Woods provides year round bouldering in Lincoln, Rhode Island. As of a few years ago most people thought that "the woods" were climbed out. However, over the last few years over 20 new, high quality problems have been developed. Locals are still uncovering hidden gems.

Lincoln Woods is located just off of Route 146. Parking during the winter (October to May 1) is at either gate on the loop road. When the gates are open, you can usually park much closer to the climbing.

Classic problems here include: Iron Cross, V4, Mack's Traverse, V2, and Rump to Jump, V7, at the Mack's/Iron Cross area; Try Again, V5, The Wave, V2, and Ship's Prow Traverse, V0+, on the opposite side of the street; Heart of Glass, V8 (V4 and just as classic from a standing start), along the beginning of the spur road; and Hat's Off, V6, Sit Down Traverse, V5, and Hueco Dreams, V9 further down the spur road.

A guidebook to the bouldering should be completed in December 2000. As a little bit of a tease, here is a sample topo for one of the boulders at the woods. Also, click here for a topo of the Try Again boulder.

Disclaimer

Bouldering is dangerous. You could be seriously injured or killed. Do not attempt any of the problems described in this web page unless you have the expertise to do so. NewEnglandBouldering.com does not assume any liability for your safety or well being.