Rattlesnake Rocks

Approach

The Blue Hills are home to some fine top roping spots known as the Rattlesnake Rocks. Though they are just off Wampatuck Road, one must park about 1/2 mile away. The best parking is at the Shea Ice Skating Rink on Willard Street, which is off exit 6 or 8 on Route 93 in Quincy. The rocks are a ten minute walk from the rink, following the Pipeline Trail or the Skyline Trail, or Wampatuck Road. The rocks are just two minutes from where the Pipeline Trail crosses Wampatuck Road. You will see them from the road.

The Playground at Rattlesnake Rocks.

Route Description

There are three rock areas all suitable for top roping. From west to east these are known as The Overlook, the Playground, and the Ship's Prow . None of the pitches is more than about forty feet, but among them there is everything from 5.3 to overhanging roofs and slender cracks, with a couple of pitches rated 5.11, and some lead climbing as well.

This is a popular top-roping spot and training area. The best guide to the area is Boston Rocks by Richard Doucette and Susan Ruff. For more information on this book go to www.bostonrocksonline.com. Over three dozen routes are available for folks of all abilities.

Nearby one can find the Quincy Quarries, with fifteen different faces to explore.

Essential Gear

Bring some long slings for the top-roping. These will be needed everywhere except the Overlook where there are a number of pipes left from an old railing; these will provide strong anchors right at the edge of the cliffs. As mentioned above, none of the climbs are more than about 40 feet.

Miscellaneous Info

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