The Gunks, Fall 2024 Newsletter
I know, I know, it feels too early to be declaring it the Fall. I think it feels “too early” because I’m used to the West, where the summer tends to drag into September. Out West, the Fall seems to be reserved for only October and November.
However, I’m already seeing some color changes here in New York. I think it’s because last week, we had some legit Fall-like overnight temperatures in the 50s. The sumacs are showing color, deciduous trees are getting yellower and lime green, and other sensitive plants, especially ivies, are changing, too.
The Fall is My Favorite
In my Spring 2024 newsletter, I revealed that the Fall is my favorite season in the Gunks. It’s my favorite season anywhere, actually.
The Fall is primo for climbing because the daytime temperatures stay cool, if not cold. In general, cooler temperatures are more pleasant when doing any sort of physical activity. But cool temps are especially ideal for climbing because the rock feels better and your fingertips and hands sweat less.
The combination of cold, crisp rock and dry skin enhances friction and creates an almost velcro-like sensation when you’re climbing. With better friction, you can pull harder on small crimps and feel more secure while climbing. It’s truly a wonderful feeling.
Not to mention, the foilage looks amazing. Rock climbing in the Fall offers an experience akin to climbing inside a psychedelic kaleidoscope. The fantastic array of colors is a beautiful site to behold. (As a newbie to the Northeast, I’m still loving the spectrum of reds you get out here from the maple trees.)
Average Fall Temperatures at The Gunks
September- average high of 72 ºF and low of 55 ºF
October- average high of 61 ºF and low of 44 ºF
November- average high of 49 ºF and low of 35 ºF
Driest Fall Month: September
Fall Holidays (to celebrate with climbing) in 2024
September 2nd: Labor Day
October 14th: Indigenous Peoples’ Day
November 28th: Thanksgiving
It’s Time for My ARGC/AE During “Rock-tober”
There’s a reason climbers affectionately call October “rock-tober.” It’s because October is oftentimes a wonderful time of the year to climb. This is true in pretty much any crag, including the Gunks.
While I would love to spend every day of October climbing in the Gunks, I do have to spend a couple of weeks climbing in Colorado this year. Over the first two weeks of October 2024, I will be taking my Advanced Rock Guide Course and Aspirant Exam (ARGC/AE).
For folks wondering what the heck the ARGC/AE is, I recommend returning to an article I wrote describing how I learned to get a rock climbing guide.
I will be back from my trip on October 14th. I will be chomping at the bit to get back to the Gunks and climb as much as I can before succumbing to the Winter. I’ve already got some booked days on the calendar to look forward to and I’m hoping more folks join me!
If the Northeast is Too Cold, Go South
I get it. Some folks don’t like being exposed to colder temperatures, let alone having to go rock climbing in them. If that sounds like you, well, sorry. We’ll miss you.
But don’t stop climbing, go South! Lower latitudes in the United States have perfect Fall temperatures for climbing. For example, last November, I spent a week guiding and climbing recreationally in the Red River Gorge outside Slade, Kentucky.
Other areas around the Southeast are also great in the Fall. Heck, some people even go south of the border to climb in El Potrero Chico, Mexico, during the fall (and winter). But if you go there, invite me! ¡Órale!