This Pennsylvania Park Is Home To One Of The Most Unique Climbing Destinations In The State
By Beth Price-Williams|Published November 03, 2023
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Pennsylvania’s 124 state parks hide so many delightful secrets – from old-growth forests that create majestic tree canopies to hiking trails that showcase chiseled rocks. If you’ve got the itch for a rock-climbing adventure and haven’t been to Ralph Stover State Park yet, add it to your list. It’s one of the most unique climbing destinations in Pipersville, Pennsylvania.
At just 45 acres, Ralph Stover State Park in Pipersville certainly earns a nod as one of the smallest state parks in Pennsylvania. What it lacks in size, however, it makes up for in scenic beauty and adrenaline-inducing activities.
If you’re all about paddling, glide your watercraft onto Tohickon Creek for a whitewater adventure as you maneuver your way along what’s described as a “challenging course.”
Paddlers are advised not to go on the water alone as the conditions, due to drop-offs and strainers, can be quite dangerous.
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One of the best ways to experience this snug Pennsylvania state park is on one of the hiking trails. Ideal for hiking and mountain bike riding, the 3.7-mile High Rocks Trail leads to some of the best climbing in Pennsylvania.
The easy trail promises sensational views from High Rocks, but it’s the rock climbing opportunities that draw adventurers. Choose from more than 100 climbing routes, the majority of which are for traditional climbing and top rope.
Bouldering may also be an option, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), in some sections, such as by the creek’s edge.
Rocks range in height from 30 to 150 feet. If you plan to climb, you’re not permitted to add anchors or fixed hardware unless you’ve first received the okay from the management at the state park.
Have you gone rock climbing at Ralph Stover State Park, one of the most unique climbing destinations in Pipersville, Pennsylvania? What did you think? Let us know in the comments! When you’re up for more adventures, how about exploring these caves, hidden in several state parks in Pennsylvania?
Before you set off on your rock climbing adventure, be sure to slip on a pair of sturdy rock climbing shoes.
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