Perched amidst the scenic contours of Bartlett, New Hampshire, The Main Area unfolds as an inviting destination for climbers craving rugged adventure and traditional rock challenges. The approach itself is an early taste of what awaits - crossing a river and spotting a distinctive large red-painted blazed tree, you veer left onto a subtle trail weaving over fallen logs and ascending steeply through a natural gully. This leads you to the cliff’s left edge, where an iconic off-width crack with a tree growing from it marks a key landmark. Flanking this are two notable climbs: Choo Choo to the left and How Green Was My Valley to the right.

This climbing area sits at approximately 877 feet elevation, offering stable conditions through much of the prime climbing season. While detailed weather averages help with trip planning, expect the typical New England mix of sun-dappled spring and crisp autumn days as the best windows for clear rock and enjoyable temperatures. The fact that The Main Area features over 50 routes means there is plenty to explore, with grades spanning mostly from 5.4 up through 5.11. Classic climbs here include Washed Up Hippie With A Handgun (5.4) and How Green Was My Valley (5.9), among several others in the moderate difficulty range that appeal to intermediate climbers looking for classic New Hampshire trad lines.

The climbing style here leans heavily on traditional crack climbing with off-widths and finger cracks that require solid hand and foot jamming techniques. This is not a sport crag – climbers should come prepared with a rack geared for cracks and traditional protection placements. Solid rock quality and a variety of crack sizes reward careful gear selection and good route reading. For those seeking steeper challenges, routes like Trepidation (5.10b) and Thin Line (5.11) provide a chance to test endurance and technical skill without venturing into extreme territory.

Getting to the climbing faces requires a short but moderately steep hike that demands attention. The path climbs through forested terrain with some obstacles from fallen timber, so sturdy footwear and patience are needed. The approach is well marked by the red paint spot serving as an anchor reference point in the dense foliage. Bring a map or GPS coordinates—latitude 44.0869, longitude -71.2477—to avoid wandering off track.

Once at the cliff, climbers can expect diverse placements and varied exposures. While the routes are mostly single pitch traditionals with solid anchors, the setting offers quietude and approachable wilderness that feels a step beyond typical suburban climbing gyms. Daylight filters through the trees, and the atmosphere brings a calm reverence to the climbs even as adrenaline peaks. The descent typically involves walking down on forested trails that are straightforward but can be slippery if wet, so take care especially after rain or during early thaw seasons.

Gear-wise, a comprehensive traditional rack with a good selection of cams and nuts is essential. Some off-widths mean bigger gear and possibly a larger rack. Though hardware is mostly clean and reliable, climbers should never rely solely on fixed anchors and should back them up with solid gear placements. Bug spray and an extra layer for cool weather rounds out the kit for day trips.

The Main Area rests within the greater White Mountain region surrounding Bartlett, a corridor famed for granite cliffs and wilderness hiking. It’s the kind of place where the climbing experience extends beyond the rock, connecting you to a broader New England outdoor tradition filled with crisp air, sturdy rock, and winding forest trails. Climbing here is about the rhythm of movement on natural stone, the quiet focus of gear placements, and the simple reward of standing atop a well-earned summit.

In summary, The Main Area offers an engaging, hands-on trad climbing experience set against a backdrop of fresh New Hampshire forest and steep granite walls. Its accessibility balanced with a moderate approach makes it ideal for climbers looking to sharpen crack skills in a setting that feels both familiar and quietly wild. Classic climbing lines and a variety of pitches invite exploration, while the natural setting provides a refreshing escape from urban life. Planning ahead with gear, weather awareness, and an eye on the trail conditions ensures your time here is both safe and memorable.