Option 1 of 2 weekends in May for this trip (the other is May 25-30).

The Shawangunks, aka the Gunks, is in southeastern NY state, only about 1- 1½ hours from the Big Apple.  About 7 hours from Pittsburgh.  It is about 4 miles west of the cool, little college town of New Paltz. The Gunks is a trad climber’s paradise: easy to place pro, countless horizontals, quality rock, easy approaches, and moderate roofs have made the place famous.  No sport routes are available. Bring your tricams - you'll love them here.  Most climbs are in the 2-3 pitch range with many 1-pitch classics.  Even though this is trad climbing nirvana it has more of a New River Gorge feel rather than Seneca.  The climbs are situated along a long cliff band without the exposure Seneca is famous for (except for the uber classic climb High Exposure - a “must do”).  Many climbs are in the more moderate grade 5.4-5.8 with several beauties above 5.8 if you dare.  However, don't get too cocky, this is the only place where you can tackle a roof (yes, a roof, not an overhang) at the 5.6 grade, Shockley's Ceiling.

The Gunks often receives the same weather as Pittsburgh, therefore, rain, humidity, heat, etc. are a consideration. The daily fee to climb is $20 (as of 2019,) is a big negative, but it’s nice to treat yourself occasionally to this classic crag.

We'll camp at the AAC campground, up to 4 per site.

We'll aim to leave midday on a weekday (Wednesday,) climb Thursday - Sunday at noon, then back home for Sunday night. 

RSVP if interested so we can include you in the planning.