Carderock Climbing Area

-
1 hour
easy
Rock Climbing
Summer, Fall, Spring
Cabin John, MD

MountainManV

Carderock is a part of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park. It is located on the Potomac River between Vaso Island and the Canal along the Billy Goat Trail.There is no fee to enter the Park. The rock is micha-schist and ranges from 30-50 feet with the majority of the climbs about 35 ft. There is a good variety of features in this small area, approximately 200 yds. of friction slabs, overhangs, and cracks. A predominantly low angle base makes this an excellent area for bouldering. While the rock is stable, it is not recommended for trad climbing because the protection will slip or break out. Bring enough anchor for trees about 20-30 ft. from the edge of the cliff. There are 35 routes 5.5 to 5.8 and 65 routes from 5.9 to 5.12. Many of the routes can be climbed from the same anchor, providing for good warm-ups and challenges for climbers of all abilities. Carderock can be very crowded on weekends in good weather.

Directions:

From I-495, Take exit #13 to the Clara Barton Parkway, on the Maryland side of the Potomac near Cabin John. Follow the Parkway North to the first exit, Carderock Recreation Area. At the top of the ramp turn left across the Parkway, right to go under the canal, stay right to the last parking lot.