Adventure seekers driving the scenic stretch of Route 15 near Blossburg, Pennsylvania might not realize a cluster of bullet-hard sandstone boulders sits waiting just beyond the tree line. Boone Run, tucked within the mixed hardwoods of Tioga State Forest, is quietly emerging as a must-visit destination for climbers looking for something off the beaten path. Combining easy access, quality stone, and a variety of well-regarded problems, this area promises both memorable sends and peaceful forest immersion.

Your journey to Boone Run begins with a simple detour: take the Blossburg exit from Route 15, drive to the dead end at the top of the hill, and slip into the woods. From here, the adventure starts immediately—crossing a lively creek, picking up the rhythm of the trail, and following cat eye markers and flagging tape along a well-defined path. In just a quarter-mile, you’ll be standing at the base of weathered sandstone blocks, each one offering challenges from ten to twenty feet tall. The approach is short, but not without its charm, especially when the light filters through early morning mist or autumn leaves crunch underfoot.

Boone Run’s sandstone has a reputation for being tough—think clean breaks, crisp edges, and surprisingly grippy faces. Every hold feels deliberate, with well-set landings and features sharpened by years of Pennsylvania weather. While the stone doesn’t quite offer the sheer height of some major areas, the verticality and integrity make each climb feel consequential, especially as you top out among the swaying branches overhead.

Classic problems here are building a buzz in the local climbing scene. Try your balance on the four-star Hump De Bump (V4), enjoy the thoughtful movement of Chipper (V3), or test your strength and problem-solving on Parallel Universe (V6). Raindance Maggie (V3) and Ghost Monkey (V1) have also earned local favorites status—these lines stand out not just for their ratings, but for the diversity of movement and creative sequences. For those seeking something a touch stiffer, Dark Necessities (V4) and The General (V2) add to the circuit, each problem featuring distinctive holds and sequences that reward careful footwork and patience.

The boulders sit entirely on state forest land, giving you the freedom to roam and sample the lines—just be mindful of private property boundaries at the fringe. All of the classic problems can be protected with a bouldering pad or two, and the landings are generally clean, though the typical Pennsylvania forest floor can be soft after spring rains. Bringing a spotter is highly recommended for some of the taller blocks, as a couple of landings have slight slopes or uneven patches.

Climbing at Boone Run is an experience defined by simplicity: a short approach, a handful of beta-rich classics, and an atmosphere that begs you to linger in the cool shade of the southern-facing bluffs. The lack of crowds means you’ll often have the place to yourself—save for the cheerful chatters of birds and the sound of wind pulling through the leaves. The south-facing aspect makes for excellent climbing in late spring and fall, with the sun warming cold stone in the mornings and afternoons. Summers can be humid but are rarely brutally hot given the elevation and shade.

Boone Run isn’t about quantity, but quality—each problem here brings something original, a combination of natural aesthetics and honest difficulty. Those planning a trip should pack the essentials (a couple pads, water, and weather-appropriate layers) and plan to spend a rewarding day exploring what the forest has protected. If you’re in Central Pennsylvania and looking to spend a quiet, focused day on world-class rock, Boone Run delivers a fresh breath of adventure just minutes from the beaten path.