Every September, Ellenville, New York transforms into a beacon for outdoor enthusiasts as the Ellenville Climbers Festival fires up the weekend with a blend of adventure, camaraderie, and rugged landscapes. Located in the shadows of the Shawangunk Ridge—known as the Gunks, a world-renowned climbing destination—this festival invites climbers and hikers of every skill level to engage with one of the Northeast’s most fiercely beautiful environments.

The festival isn’t just about scaling rock faces; it’s about feeling the pulse of the environment that dares you to test your limits. The terrain varies from steep cliffs offering technical routes to easier bouldering sites perfect for novices, all wrapped in a canopy of thick forest that shifts colors come fall. Expect routes that range from beginner-friendly 5.4s to expert-level 5.14s, catering to a wide spectrum of climbers eager to challenge the rock’s tough grip.

Trails around the festival site are practical for visitors who want to explore the footpaths beyond the crags. For instance, the Mill Brook Trail offers roughly 2.5 miles round trip, with moderate elevation gains around 500 feet, threading through wooded paths that occasionally break to reveal sweeping valley views. The forest itself acts as a living companion, branches brushing gently in the breeze, shadows dancing as clouds wander overhead.

Preparation is key: footwear with solid grip, hydration packs, and layered clothing to adapt to early fall’s chilling mornings and warmer afternoons will serve you well. The festival usually runs over three days—with planned introductions for beginners to advanced clinics, gear demos, and social events. Timing your climb early in the day helps you avoid afternoon wind shifts that the ridge often sends sweeping through the trails and routes.

Safety briefings are part of the lineup, emphasizing respect for the rock and environment. The Gunks is fiercely itself—solid but slick with moss in places, prone to sudden weather changes that command respect. Take advantage of the experts on-site to learn not just how to climb, but how to climb smart.

For those interested beyond climbing, the festival shines a spotlight on local culture and environmental stewardship. Talks address erosion control, wildlife habitat preservation, and the history of the area’s climbing scene dating back to the 1930s. Here, nature is an active partner—granite faces test your grip, the forests whisper secrets of seasons past, and the currents of the nearby Rondout Creek challenge with their restless energy.

Whether you’re aiming to tick off routes or savor the hike and vibe of this climber’s gathering, the Ellenville Climbers Festival invites a balanced adventure. It’s a call to step into an environment that asks for skill, respect, and curiosity with every climb and every step taken into the expansive outdoors.