Kingdom Boulder rises quietly in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom, a modest giant of moderate bouldering perched at an elevation of just over 1,580 feet. Discovered quite serendipitously one winter during a cross-country ski outing, this remarkable granite cluster has quietly earned a reputation as a concentrated hub of classic and compelling problems — a true mecca for climbers craving approachable challenges with variety and quality. The boulder reveals three distinct faces to explore: a slab that demands precise footwork, a perfectly vertical plane that tests balance and strength, and a dynamic, 3-dimensional side that features a striking diving board-like overhang, inviting bold moves and full commitment.

Getting to Kingdom Boulder feels like stepping out into Vermont’s wilderness playground without the hassle of a long approach. After driving roughly half a mile up the CCC road, park at the marked gate for a short loop trail. Missing Bartlett Mountain Road signals you’ve gone too far. The approach is straightforward yet rewarding — take the right fork immediately after the gate, then a left, followed by another right about five minutes along. From there, a brief 50 to 100 meters of hiking leads to the heart of the boulders themselves (GPS coordinates: 44° 42′ 9.01″ N, 72° 1′ 5.34″ W).

The climbs here are solidly moderate, well-suited for those honing bouldering skills or seasoned crushers looking for consistent movement without extreme overhead exposure. Classic problems such as Beyond Willoughby (V4) and Kingdom Creed (V4) offer challenging yet accessible sequences, while Kingdom Grit (V4) elevates the difficulty and satisfaction. For those seeking something a bit lighter, Kingdom Kind (V1) provides a welcoming entry point. Other standout lines include On the Way to Parker Pie (V3), Part-Time Trad Climber (V3), and Thy Kingdom Come (V4), each packed with character that encourages repeated sends and personal bests.

Seasonal access considerations come into play here. Raptor closures govern certain times of the year, so checking the latest updates on cragvt.org before planning your trip is essential. This helps keep the area accessible while respecting local wildlife and conservation efforts.

Weather-wise, Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom presents a classic seasonal rhythm with crisp, clear conditions prime for climbing from late spring through early fall. The lightly forested terrain surrounding the boulder creates dappled shade and a pleasant microclimate, shielding you from the midday sun and keeping rock temperatures comfortable. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best light and the most enjoyable temperatures for sustained sessions.

Protection on these moderate boulders requires multiple pads to protect varied landings, as the terrain around the base includes some uneven ground and occasional roots. A spotter is recommended, especially for the more dynamic moves on the diving board face. The rock itself is solid granite, offering excellent friction and varied textures, making smearing and edging a key part of the climbing experience.

The descent from each problem is straightforward, with easy walk-off terrain back to the trail, so there’s little concern for complicated down climbing or risk. Approaching and leaving the area is a smooth process, perfect for day trips or short excursions paired with other nearby outdoor activities.

Kingdom Boulder stands out not just as a climbing spot but as a promising frontier — a place with room to grow as new problems are discovered and old ones refined. The surrounding boulders hint at untapped potential, encouraging exploration beyond the immediate loops. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your technique on solid moderate lines or simply soak in the quiet forest surroundings of Vermont’s North, Kingdom Boulder delivers an inviting blend of challenge, ease, and peaceful wilderness.

For climbers craving a focused bouldering outing without the logistics of a long trek, this area offers a rare combination of accessibility, quality, and natural beauty. Prepare with good pads, patience for changing closures, and an eagerness to explore. Kingdom Boulder promises a climbing experience grounded in authenticity and marked by the subtle thrills of every hold found and problem sent.