Will’s Mountain State Park
Will’s Mountain State Park, also known as the Cumberland Narrows, offers over 200 routes to Western Maryland. Dominantly traditional routes, there are also top rope routes spread out through the area.
Status
The Department of Natural Resource bought the Artmor Plastics Corporation property in March 2024, which is adjacent to the State Park. An environmental assessment and ecological review is currently being performed in anticipation of the park being reopened. From February 15 through July 31, a portion of the park is closed by DNR to protect Peregrine Falcons. After July 31, the Park will remain closed, by authority of DNR. However, there are other portions owned by Allegany Holding CO. Using this land and climbing is considered trespassing on private property.
Climbing undertaken in these locations against these restrictions may have consequences.
Wills Mountain Public Meeting with DNR
On June 11, DNR held a public meeting to discuss the closure and answer questions.
Keep a lookout for more dates.
While a portion of the park is under DNR assessment, we encourage you to reach out if you have questions.
Some articles to read and learn more
Joshua Kurtz: Secretary of Natural Resources.
Email: josh.kurtz@maryland.gov
Sandi Olek: Director of the Maryland Office of Outdoor Recreation.
Email: sandra.olek@maryland.gov
Sarah Milbourne: Western Region Manager.
Email: sarah.milbourne@maryland.gov
About The Narrows
The Narrows are the longest continuous crag in the state of Maryland being just under three-quarters of a mile from end to end, with cliff heights ranging from 20 to just under 200 feet or 6-60 meters. The Narrows has approximately 200+ known routes ranging from <5.6 -5.10.
This is primarily a trad and top-rope area and apart from a handful of rap stations (circa 12), there are almost no bolts at this crag. For multi-pitch climbing, there are plenty of ledges to set anchor using gear or trees. For single-pitch climbing, there are sufficient trees up high to use as anchors. The routes that can be set up for top-rope are primarily on the left half of the cliff, at the Far Wall area.
The Narrows has a reputation for loose rock including large loose rocks, yet it is not the utter choss pile that some claim. However, there is loose rock here, possibly more than you are used to. We strongly recommend you to always wear a helmet and do not assume that every hold is solid.
