Grand Ledge Main

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Grand Ledge climbing page.
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WARNING: Climbing is Potentially Dangerous!

Introduction:
Grand Ledge is located outside of Lansing, Michigan. The rock there is made up of Ionia sandstone, which was formed by a salt-water sea about 280 million years ago. The Sand stone is composed of quartz grains cemented together by iron oxide and lovingly called "The ledges". The ledges at Oak Park represent the only natural vertical relief in lower Michigan. The rock itself offers an abundance of flakes, ledges, and overhangs. The ground at times can be a bit damp to say the least. Fitzgerald park (across the river from the climbing area) offers a self guided tour, with interpretive exhibits, and nature walk. The tour offers a first hand look at the geology of the area.

FITZGERALD PARK IS OFF LIMITS TO CLIMBING !

I would like to mention the original climbers at Grand Ledge. These brave people began climbing here before stealth rubber and fancy harnesses...the true pioneers of Michigan climbing. Establishing first accents on many of these climbs back in 1969 and early 1970's, sometimes leading on disintegrating holds and soft rock.
* Due to the dangerous conditions the city has banned lead climbing at Grand Ledge (see regulations)

The first guide book for grand ledge was put out by Bruce Bright in the spring of 1969, with two ideas in mind. First to compile and organize the climbing activity that had taken place at the ledges. Second to make this information available to those unfamiliar with the area. Successive guidebooks have appeared from 1971 - to the early 1990's. With the recent growth climbing over last few years, a need for a convenient concise guidebook has once again risen. I will be including as much first ascent (FA) information as I can find.

Jamie Emerson on the start of "Enigma". His 2000 ascent was the routes 2nd complete run in 20 years. Known as one of Grand Ledge's longest standing projects, it now has a confirmed rating and name. "Enigma" 5.13a

Rules & Regulations
Directions
Tope Rope Guide
Bouldering
Amenities

Emergency:
Police Department (517) 627-2115
200 E. Jefferson Grand Ledge

Fire Department (517) 627-1157
500 N. Clinton Grand Ledge
Emergencies Only Call 911

Guidebooks:
This little known guide is sometimes hard, but can be purchased here, or from one of our retailing partners below.

Planet Rock climbing gym:
Pontiac, MI, and Ann Arbor (248) 334-3904, (743) 827-2680
REI: Northville, and Troy (248) 347-2159

We would like to encourage the local stores to get involved in the annual work parties (spring and fall) by offering ad space in exchange for donations to these work parties.

Climber's Guide to Grand Ledge, MI
By Mike Flack
Guide covers G.L.'s unique code of ethics, regulations, route descriptions, topos, and a little history

Buy this book

If you are a store owner/manager interested in offering this guide to your customers, please contact us
trails-edge@trails-edge.com.

Click HERE For current weather conditions and the five day weather forecast.

Other Michigan Climbing
Bloomer Park, MI | Presque Isle, MI (UP) | Au Train, MI (UP)
Planet Rock Climbing gym | Inside Moves Climbing gym

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