In the heart of Central Ohio, the A. West Side Boulders stand as a vibrant magnet for boulderers chasing everything from heart-thumping highballs to delicate slab puzzles. This zone has quickly cemented itself as the destination for those in search of both challenge and variety without having to travel far from home. Here, adventure is condensed into compact problems and spread across a forested hillside, where rock meets foliage and the mood shifts from relaxed to adrenaline-fueled, sometimes within a single problem.

Whether your style skews toward steep, powerful lines or demands quiet precision on technical slabs, the West Side offers plenty to fire up your motivation. Many problems are short and steep, inviting gym-trained power, while others are long and slabby, rewarding thoughtful footwork. Still, some problems shoot skyward, delivering thrilling highballs that demand courage, judgment, and a heap of crashpads. Be sure you bring along all your landing protection – not every fall zone is forgiving, and a few lines invite you to muster up every ounce of composure you own.

Of note is the seasonal character of these boulders. Many stay dry and are climbable nearly year-round, adding major appeal for those looking to eke out sessions through Ohio’s colder months. Be aware, though, that others become soaked from November through May, which can mean planning around recent rains and the fickle moods of Midwest weather. A cold, crisp autumn day here can offer some of the region’s finest friction – a perfect time to tackle sought-after classics like Lunar Eclipse (V1), Tree Hugger (V2), or the powerful Contortionist (V5).

Finding the West Side is part of the adventure. The most straightforward way in is to walk the length of Marne Road to the massive oil tank, then pick up the discreet trail just right of the tank and climb 100 feet uphill. As you reach the cliff line, you’ll be greeted by the start of the action; the legendary Contortionist sits right at this entry point, marking your arrival with a challenge. If you’re hauling more than a couple pads, consider dropping them in the pullout to save your energy for the approach. There’s also the option to traverse the base of the cliff toward the rest of the crag, with the approach shaded in the leafier months and softly sunlit in winter’s bare canopy.

Classic problems abound here, each with a distinct flavor: the forgiving slopers and technical feet on Mail Slot (V4), the burly moves of Slugfest (V3), and the multi-starred highball exploits of Friends (V3) and Psych (V6) will stick in your memory. For those seeking next-level sequences, Contortionist’s Traverse (V5) is widely considered among Ohio’s bouldering gems.

Access is the wild card here. All bouldering on the west is on private property, and good stewardship from the climbing community has kept doors open so far. The message is clear: respect the rules, keep a low profile, absolutely avoid the top of the cliff and the land above, and pick up all trash. Landowner tolerance has its limits. Hanging out above the cliff is strictly off-limits; accidents or disruptive behavior could end climbing access for everyone. Carry out even trash that isn’t yours, be polite, and keep gatherings minimal. Safety matters too: don’t climb above the roped climbs to the east, and don’t end self-care in the excitement of a new send.

Prime conditions tend toward the cooler months, with fall offering peak foothold friction and lower humidity. Summer, while lush and green, can lead to muggy holds and an increase in ticks and bugs, so plan accordingly. Always check the weather before your visit to avoid wasted missions to wet rock.

In summary, A. West Side Boulders serves up a practical, exciting climbing experience that rewards preparation, respect, and a hunger for exploration. The crag’s collection of boulders rivals that of many larger destinations, and the mix of problems keeps you guessing, session after session. Plan ahead, respect the landowners and your fellow climbers, and West Side will reward you with some of the best bouldering in the region—right in Ohio’s own backyard.