The Magic of Spring Climbing: Why March is the Real Start of the Season
There’s a specific feeling that comes with the first week of March. The evenings are noticeably lighter, the gorse on Dartmoor is starting to show its yellow buds, and—most importantly for us—the granite is starting to dry out.
If you’ve spent the winter months inside the local walls in Exeter or Plymouth, you’ve likely built up some great strength and technique. But as any Devon climber will tell you, there is nothing quite like the friction of sun-warmed Dartmoor granite.
Here is why March is the perfect time to step outside and how to make the most of the "Spring Launch."
1. The Friction is at its Peak
While summer climbing is great for t-shirts and sun hats, "sticky" granite actually prefers the cooler air of March and April. The friction is incredible right now. You’ll find that those tiny crystals and smears you struggled with in the humidity of summer suddenly feel like "bomber" holds.
2. Building Momentum for the Year
Starting your outdoor season in March gives you a massive head start. Instead of waiting until June to "remember" how to build an anchor or place a nut, getting out now means your systems will be second nature by the time the long summer days arrive. It’s about building a solid foundation of confidence early on.
3. The Return of the Social Crag
Climbing is as much about the community as it is about the movement. Spring marks the return of the "crag social"—that brilliant atmosphere where you meet new partners, share beta on a route, and enjoy a brew with a view.
Ready to kick off your Spring season?
We are running monthly climb and coffee socials, perfect for meeting the community and getting a low-pressure taste of the outdoors.
Real Rock. Fresh Coffee. Good Vibes.
Ditch the gym and start your Sunday the right way. The Climb & Coffee Social is our monthly community session designed for adult climbers who want to get outside, meet new partners, and enjoy Dartmoor’s granite without the pressure of a formal course.
Whether you’ve never touched real rock before or you’re an indoor climber looking for a relaxed outdoor crew, this is for you.
We provide the ropes, the safety, the expert instruction, and—most importantly—the coffee. You just turn up and climb.
