Set deep in the rugged expanse of New Hampshire's Great North Woods, the Right Side of Square Mountain offers a rare reward for those willing to venture beyond the usual climbing hotspots. Elevated at 2,364 feet and set well off the beaten path, this remote section is a true destination for climbers seeking solitude, big adventure, and a taste of New Hampshire's wildest climbing.

Arriving at the Right Side isn’t your typical outing—the approach itself is a notable part of the experience. The mountain sits far enough from the road that your hike in quickly shifts into its own micro-adventure, with shifting weather, soft trails winding through dense woods, and a pervasive feeling that you’re stepping into territory few climbers ever tread. GPS (44.55625, -71.34394) is essential out here, both for navigation and in-the-know reassurance. Plan for loose footing, muddy patches after rain, and stretches of trail that can disappear beneath seasonal growth.

Once you clear the approach and pick your way up to the Right Side’s clean face, the spirit of Square Mountain truly shines through—this is climbing that demands attention. Stark granite with sharp lines and pronounced features rises above the treeline, its faces bearing the scars of New England’s winters and showcasing the classic weathered stone of the region. The setting is quiet, with only the wind and the sound of your own footsteps, and spectacular forested ridgelines roll out in every direction.

For many, the area’s highlight is Square Route, The (5.10), a classic climb that calls out from the clean rock. While the information is sparse and the existing beta is minimal, the reputation of Square Route draws dedicated traditionalists in search of New Hampshire’s understated gems. This single-pitch experience, heralded by local insiders as one of the upper-tier lines, offers technical movement and a forceful demand for route finding—a challenge that rewards precision-minded leaders who thrive on remote objectives.

Logistics here demand respect as well as skill. Climbers should expect a traditional experience—no fixed anchors or bolts—where gear placement is critical and every move counts. This isn’t roadside cragging; it’s true, self-sufficient climbing, with all the raw energy and commitment one expects from such a remote locale. Bring a full rack and be prepared for the range of traditional placements, a well-rehearsed head for handling alpine-style exposure, and the self-reliance to manage whatever the woods might throw your way.

Conditions shift quickly, with prime climbing windows falling between late spring and early fall. Afternoon sun can bake the face, while early morning offers crisp air and slanted light. Fall brings vibrant color, amplifying the view, but late-season storms or cold snaps can make everything slicker and riskier in a hurry. The descent demands just as much focus as the climb, with simple walk-offs possible but tricky ground and slim trails making caution vital, especially in wet or icy conditions.

For anyone looking to earn their adventure, the Right Side delivers an experience that is as much about the journey as the payoff. This is where you go to escape crowds, put your skills to the test, and come back with stories of big air and quiet woods. Bring plenty of water, top up your map skills, and give yourself plenty of daylight to make the most of what just might be your finest day on New Hampshire’s remote granite.

Square Mountain’s Right Side won’t hand you the experience—you’ve got to go after it. But for those willing to chase the horizon and take on the unknown, what waits among these granite faces is the kind of adventure that stays with you long after the last echoes fade from the forest.