Tucked away in the quiet woods of northeastern Connecticut, Mulberry Boulders offers a secluded experience for climbers craving both adventure and tranquility. Far from crowds and city buzz, this understated bouldering zone invites you to slip off Mulberry Road and into a pocket of rock-strewn forest where expectations fade and focus sharpens. The short drive beyond Chaffeeville Road unfolds bucolic Connecticut scenery, soon bringing you to a modest pull-off beside a small boulder—a clear marker that your session is about to begin.

The approach primes you for solitude. Instead of the main area’s usual bustle, you’ll weave through woods from the Mulberry Road pull-off, stepping into a quiet world punctuated by moss-covered blocks and the steady rhythm of leaves underfoot. With an elevation just shy of 360 feet, this compact boulderfield feels hidden and a bit wild, perfect for those who relish the hunt for new, less-traveled lines.

The climbing here is distinctly low-key but rewarding. The boulders are scattered across the area—not organized into neat clusters—which gives every problem a personal feel. The forest canopy filters sunlight, often keeping the rock dry and the air cool, especially during the shoulder seasons that frame New England’s best bouldering conditions. These are the months when conditions align; friction is prime and bugs are few, letting you settle in for session after session.

Among the scattered gems, 'Sternin'' stands out as the classic climb—a V3 testpiece earning solid local praise with its balance of burl and subtlety. It exemplifies what Mulberry Boulders does well: moves that reward patience and precise footwork, over granite with just enough features to keep every attempt engaging. There's an underlying old-school flavor in the way lines are cleaned and climbed here, making each send feel hard-earned. Spots like this don’t inflate the grades; expect straightforward, honest climbing that feels true to the stated difficulty.

What sets Mulberry Boulders apart isn’t size or scale but the experience of quiet. While the area doesn’t boast a huge count of established lines, it’s exactly this underdeveloped vibe that fosters a sense of exploration and possibility. Whether you’re ticking off the known classics or wandering in search of inspiration, you’ll likely have the place to yourself, save the company of songbirds and the whisper of wind through the trees.

Access is straightforward but subtle. Park off Mulberry Road near the roadside boulder landmark and locate the faint path diving into the woods. The terrain is typical New England forest—roots, rocks, and occasional mud—so sturdy shoes are a must for the hike in. There’s no signage or trail markers, which means a little navigation know-how goes a long way.

Pads are essential here: the uneven forest floor and occasional blocky landings call for a couple of crash pads and at least one attentive spotter. The area isn’t developed for large groups—think solo missions or small crews looking for an afternoon challenge away from the main preserve crowds. Bring your own water and keep your supplies light, as there are no facilities onsite.

Mulberry Boulders is the authentic Northeast bouldering experience distilled. It's a spot for those who love the quiet grind—finding projects, cleaning holds, and moving with intention on classic Connecticut stone. Plan your visit for dry stretches in spring or fall when the forest glows with energy and the friction is best. Here, your reward is a peaceful session in the woods, a series of honest pulls, and a chance to carve out a climbing memory all your own.