GRAND LEDGE, MI – You don’t have to head west for adventure. Right here in Grand Ledge, climbers of all ages can rope up and climb the Ledges—towering sandstone cliffs that line the Grand River inside Oak Park. These 30–40 foot natural walls are the only outdoor rock climbing spot in the Lower Peninsula, and they’ve been drawing climbers since the 1960s. 🪨🌳
Top-ropers set up anchors on trees above the cliff and climb with ropes from the bottom. The rock is soft, so no bolts, no rappelling, and no lead climbing are allowed. Just ropes, helmets, and friends. All climbing takes place in Oak Park, located at 700 W. Front Street, and not at Fitzgerald Park, where climbing is strictly prohibited.
🏞️ A Climber’s Playground
Oak Park offers more than 70 routes ranging from beginner (5.6) to expert (5.13). Favorites include:
Potato Chips (5.7) – A great starter climb with fun flake holds
Doug’s Roof (5.10) – A classic overhang challenge
Rocket Man (5.10a) – A photogenic route with a tricky start
The Trick (V5) – One of the popular bouldering problems at the base
Want to boulder instead? You can rent a crash pad just five minutes away at Toads Outdoor & Adventure, a downtown gear shop and coffee café. ☕🧗♀️
🚫 Know the Rules Before You Climb
Climbers must follow Oak Park’s code of ethics:
🧵 Use padding under anchor ropes
🌲 Use only tree anchors—no fixed bolts
🚷 No climbing in restricted areas or across the river
🚻 No alcohol, and keep groups small unless registered
📵 Don’t top out over the cliff edge
No permit is needed for casual climbers, but large groups or lessons must contact the city in advance. More info is at GrandLedgeClimbing.com. 📝
📅 Best Times to Visit
Climbing is best from April to October. Spring and fall offer cooler weather. Summer climbing works best in the morning or late afternoon, and climbers should avoid climbing right after rain—wet sandstone can break! Bring your own gear or buy essentials at Moosejaw East Lansing. 🕶️💦
🧍♂️ For New Climbers
If you’re new to the sport, consider booking a guided climb with:
Project Forty – (248) 961-0014
Higher Ground Climbing – (616) 774-3100
You’ll learn to climb safely and get all the gear included. 🪢
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