Looking for an outdoor sport that inspires, challenges, and moves you to new heights? Try rock climbing in Maine!

Rock climbing is a sport that which requires both agility of mind and body, where the chief ingredient for success is not the most expensive gear, but the bravery and determination of the participant. For it's devotees, rock climbing is about accomplishment. Rock climbers do not climb, but conquer the mountain walls they call their playground. Using every muscle, climbers negotiate the rock faces and at the top they receive the reward. Unparalleled views, an incredible sense of pride, and a feeling of unity with nature.

Rock Climbing Vocabulary:
Here are a few words and phrases you'll need to know.
YDS - Yosemite Decimal System. A difficulty rating system for climbs.
Free Climbing - climbing with hands and feet; the rope is used only to hold a fall.
Solo Climbing - climbing without a rope.
Belay - The person holding the other end of the rope.
Rappelling - sliding back down the rock with ropes.
Pitch - the distance between belay points.

Basic Equipment List:
Things that you will need to begin in the sport of rock climbing:
Climbing Shoes - These shoes have a special sticky rubber sole that help you get traction on the rock.
Climbing Ropes - Special rope with stretching action.
Harness - The key piece of equipment for performance and safety.
Belay Device - Provides a way to hold you during a fall

Beginning Rock Climbing:
When beginning rock climbing, you should always consult an expert who can give you instructions and encouragement. There is much to learn about safety, and a qualified instructor can show you the ins and outs on staying safe on the rocks.

Where to Rock Climb in ME?
Maine is a rock climber's paradise. The following is a short list of ME Rock Climbing hot spots:

Mount Katahdin - Near Millinocket, ME
Maine's tallest mountain with climbs that can accommodate many different levels of climbers.

Acadia National Park - Near Bar Harbor, ME
The eastern-most national park in the country, Arcadia is definitely one of the best. It's an awesome place to do some serious climbing while surrounded by the breathtaking scenery.

The Rampart - Near Camden, ME
Although not the best place for beginners, The Rampart is a good sport climbing area with a cliff is about 80 ft high and faces southeast.