Urban Climbing Manifesto

Location: Both north and south pillars of Walnut bridge base. Schuylkill River, east side.

Rock: Painted granite

Type of Climb: Top rope (previously bolted for sport)

Description: Philly’s highest potential climbing spot. Peek under the south staircase and feel the chiseled remains of a once standing 30 ft sport climb. Complete with two hanger bolts at the finish. As you glide your finger tips across the cold concrete, feel the vision and enthusiasm of past climbers sting through your own blood. Walk away from the bridge and assimilate this kind of dedication into your own lifestyle.

Set Routes:
-”Paint over your Frustration” 5.10a TR (Start on south pillar of bridge, after setting anchor from railing above catwalk. Climb straight up painted granite, dynamic move over last blank concrete section. FFA Peter Parker, Sept ’04 Variation includes 6 ft jump to uncertain inverted light post beneath bridge and then awkward roof with sloped formed concrete and final dynamic move to railing bottom.)
-”Previously Bolted” 5.11A TR (Center of wall facing the path, directly beneath bridge. A sport climb was once there until the park service painted over, frustratingly increasing it’s difficulty. Webbing TR anchor remains, requiring urban lead up left piping then traverse right to anchor. FFA Peter Parker Dec ‘04)