The Nuttall sandstone walls of the New River Gorge are among the best sport-climbing crags in the United States — fine-grained rock with a vertical to overhanging profile and excellent friction. There are over 1,400 established routes, most in the 5.10 to 5.13 range, with concentrations at Endless Wall, Bridge Buttress, Junkyard, and Beauty Mountain.
Most climbing is bolted sport; trad routes exist but the gear placements in the rounded sandstone can be sandbag-prone. Local outfitter Water Stone Outdoors in town sells guidebooks and rents gear. New River Mountain Guides runs lessons and guided climbs from beginner to multi-pitch.