No Car — No Problem: Getting to Barn Door Hostel with Ridj-It & Concord Coach

Want a low-stress, eco-friendly escape to Rumney without driving? You’re in luck. Barn Door Hostel sits in the heart of New Hampshire climbing country — cozy bunks, a glamping bus, and campsites — and it’s easier to reach than you might think if you combine regional bus service with community carpool tools like Ridj-It (or a short local transfer). Below I’ll walk you through clear step-by-step directions, last-mile options, and the best things to do while you’re here.

The route

  1. Long haul: Take Concord Coach Lines from Boston (South Station / Logan Airport) north toward New Hampshire hubs such as Plymouth or Concord. Concord Coach runs regular service connecting Boston/Logan with towns across NH. (Concord Coach Lines)

  2. Last mile: From the Concord/Plymouth stop use Ridj-It (community rides/carpool platform), a local taxi/ride-hail, or contact Barn Door Hostel about shuttle/arrival help. Ridj-It connects riders and drivers heading to outdoor destinations and events; it’s built for last-mile, group, and event travel. (ridj-it)

  3. Timing: Typical door-to-door travel from Boston to Rumney (bus + transfer) is roughly ~3 hours depending on connections — a lot less stressful than fighting traffic. (Rome2Rio summaries and Concord Coach scheduling make this route practical.) (Rome2Rio)

Step-by-step: sample itinerary (Boston → Barn Door Hostel)

  1. Book a Concord Coach ticket from Boston South Station or Logan to Plymouth or Concord, NH (choose the stop that best matches available connections/times). Concord Coach’s site shows stops and schedules — pick the time that fits your travel day. (Concord Coach Lines)

  2. Arrive at the NH stop. You’ll get off at the scheduled terminal (Concord has a terminal; Plymouth has a convenient downtown stop). (Concord Coach Lines)

  3. Connect via Ridj-It or local ride:

    • Ridj-It: Search or create a ride listing for Rumney — drivers heading toward climbing areas often post rides to towns like Rumney. Ridj-It’s platform is designed for outdoor events and regular trips to mountain destinations. If there’s an active ride, jump on; if not, post a short request — many users offer seats. (ridj-it)

    • If Ridj-It isn’t available: check local taxi/Uber options (availability varies in rural NH), or contact Barn Door Hostel in advance — they offer shuttles and AT-hiker pickups for a small fee (Barn Door lists shuttles/resupply services for hikers and can advise on pickup options). (Barn Door Hostel)

Pro tip: Coordinate arrival times with the hostel — reception hours are posted on their site, and letting them know your arrival stop/time helps them advise the best local transfer.

Why combine Concord Coach + Ridj-It?

  • Comfortable long haul: Concord Coach gives you a reliable, roomy bus ride from Boston/Logan without the toll/parking hassle. It’s direct, regular, and airport-friendly. (Concord Coach Lines)

  • Community last-mile: Ridj-It is built for outdoor travel — connecting riders and drivers heading to the same trailheads, festivals, or climbing crags. For climbers and outdoor groups, it’s often easier (and cheaper) than taxis — and it can be social too. (ridj-it)

  • Lower carbon footprint: Fewer single-occupant car trips, and you get to relax or nap on the bus — arrive ready to climb. (Also: no parking drama at busy crags on summer weekends.)

What to do while you’re at Barn Door Hostel

Barn Door is a real hub for outdoor activity — whether you’re a climber, hiker, or festival-seeker:

  • Climbing at Rumney Rocks: World-class sport climbing and bouldering are within easy reach — Rumney’s routes cater to a wide range of abilities. Local guides and topos are available; the hostel often has info, gear, and community partners.

  • Hiking & the Appalachian Trail: The hostel is a convenient base for nearby hikes and resupply for AT hikers; Barn Door even offers shuttles/resupply options for thru- and section-hikers. (Barn Door Hostel)

  • Campground & glamping bus: If you want to keep things rustic-but-comfy, camp on the hostel’s grounds or book the glamping bus for a fun overnight. Social spaces, firepits, and group breakfast/pancake events are common.

  • Seasonal activities (winter & nearby ski areas): The White Mountains region is full of ski resorts (Bretton Woods, Cannon, Loon, Waterville Valley are all within driving distance), scenic drives, waterfalls, and fall foliage viewing. The hostel is a great base for multi-day adventures. (Visit White Mountains)

Packing & logistics tips

  • Bring a small daypack and wear layers — Rumney’s weather flips quickly, and cliffside shade can be cool.

  • Phone & charging: coverage can be spotty; download topo/route info or print a quick map if you rely on it. Barn Door does have Wi-Fi and a friendly front desk for questions.

  • If you’re traveling as a group: coordinate one person to post the Ridj-It ride (or book the bus together) — drivers are more likely to offer a trip if a few people are going. (ridj-it)

Final notes & resources

  • Barn Door Hostel — official site with stay info, shuttles, and on-site amenities. (Barn Door Hostel)

  • Concord Coach Lines — schedules, stops, and tickets (Boston ⇄ NH service). Book your Boston to Concord or Plymouth trip here. (Concord Coach Lines)

  • Ridj-It — community ride/carpool platform geared to outdoor events and mountain trips. Great for last-mile and group travel. (ridj-it)

  • Rumney climbing guides & local intel — for route overviews, guide options, and up-to-date conditions.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist for Staying & Climbing at Barn Door Hostel

Whether you’re bunking inside, pitching a tent, or setting up your crashpad beneath the pines, here’s everything you should bring for a smooth, cozy, and send-filled stay.

Packing for a climbing trip in Rumney doesn’t need to be a chaotic “throw everything in the car and hope for the best” situation — especially if you’re arriving by Ridj-It, Concord Coach, or carpool and need to keep things streamlined. Barn Door Hostel is designed for climbers, hikers, and dirtbags of all varieties, but spending a little time prep-packing makes your stay way easier, warmer, and more fun.

Below is a comprehensive, long-format packing guide tailored specifically for stays at Barn Door Hostel — whether you’re booking a bunk inside, camping on-site, or combining both with long days climbing at Rumney Rocks.

🛏️ 1. Lodging Essentials (Bunks, Bus, or Camping)

If you’re staying in a bunk room:

Barn Door provides the basics, but you’ll be happiest if you bring:

  • Snacks!— bring some grub from the nearby supermarket. BDH has a full kitchen and all the utensils to show off your inner chef.

  • Sleep mask — if you’re light-sensitive or bunking with early risers.

  • Personal towel for showers.

  • Slippers or comfy socks for padding around the lodge.

  • Laptop — work remote with our fast WiFi, cozy work stations, and all day coffee.

  • Barn door provides the linens, pillows, earplugs, towels upon request

If you’re camping:

The campground is peaceful and great for stargazing, but Rumney weather can swing fast. Pack:

  • Tent with full rain fly

  • Ground tarp / footprint

  • Sleeping pad (insulated for spring/fall)

  • Sleeping bag rated for 20–30°F depending on season

  • Camp pillow

  • Headlamp (with extra batteries!)

  • Camp chair (nice for around the fire)

  • Carabiner clothesline for drying chalky or sweaty gear

  • Extra guy lines & stakes — windy nights happen!

  • Towel for our outdoor shower

  • Laptop-work from hostel with fast WiFi and charging outlets

  • Bug spray — black fly season is brutal if you’re unprepared.

If you’re staying in the glamping bus:

The Barn Door Bus is adorable and cozy; still, bring:

  • Towel for our outdoor shower

  • Slippers or crocs for hopping in/out

  • Small lantern or headlamp for nighttime ambiance

  • Earplugs (though the bus is quieter than bunks)

🍳 2. Kitchen & Food Essentials

Whether you’re making morning coffee, heating up a post-climb feast, or blending into the communal kitchen scene, pack:

  • Reusable mug & water bottle

  • Lightweight camp stove (for the camping)

  • Fuel canister (if bringing a stove)

  • Personal utensils / spork

  • One small food container for leftovers

  • Your snacks:

    • Protein bars

    • Trail mix

    • Fruit

    • Pre-made sandwiches/wraps

  • Meal ingredients if you want to cook

  • Coffee/tea stash if you’re particular

  • Cooler (for campers; not essential but helpful)

  • Small trash bags for campsite waste

  • Reusable grocery bag for moving things in/out of the kitchen

Pro tip: Barn Door often has a great community vibe around dinner time — be ready to share stove space , campfires, and meet people.

🧗 3. Climbing Gear Checklist (Rumney-Specific)

Rumney is steep, sharp, crimpy, and juggy. Pack everything you’d want for sport cragging, and a few extras for projecting harder lines:

Core gear:

  • Harness

  • Climbing shoes (sometimes two pairs — edging + comfy)

  • Helmet

  • Belay device (ATC or assisted-braking)

  • Chalk bag + chalk

  • Tape (especially for fresh Rumney edges that slice fingertips)

Rope & draws:

  • 60–70m rope — most Rumney routes are fine with 60m, but a 70m is awesome for overhanging walls and wandering lines

  • 12–18 quickdraws

  • Longer draws / extendable draws (great for reducing drag on wandering lines)

  • Rope tarp

Extras & niceties:

  • Crag pack (30–45L)

  • Belay glasses if you’re projecting slabs at Waimea or Techno Wall

  • Finger care kit: nail clippers, file, liquid bandage, superglue (classic climber fix), tweezers

  • Brush + handle for cleaning holds respectfully

  • Stick clip — STRONGLY recommended at Rumney

  • Leave the Portable speakers at home use

  • Small first-aid kit

  • Guidebook or Mountain Project offline

Cold weather climbing gear (Oct–April patrol):

  • Puffy jacket

  • Wind shell

  • Belay parka

  • Hand warmers

  • Nalgene with warm liquids

🧭 4. Hiking & Adventure Gear

Many guests mix climbing with sightseeing, trail runs, or AT hikes. Pack:

  • Daypack

  • Trail shoes

  • Layers

  • Map or downloaded offline routes

  • Snacks + 2L water capacity

  • Microspikes (shoulder season)

  • Camera or phone tripod for fire towers and summits (Stinson is a nearby favorite)

🧼 5. Shower, Toiletries & Personal Care

  • Towel

  • Biodegradable soap (for campers)

  • Shampoo & conditioner

  • Toothbrush + toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Face wipes (great for post-crag cleanup)

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Pain relief / anti-inflammatory

  • Blister pads

  • Nail clippers

🔌 6. Electronics & Power Stuff

  • Phone charger

  • Battery bank / power brick (nice to have as a backup, camping has charging outlets)

  • Headlamp (yes, listing it twice — it’s THAT important)

  • Camera gear (if you’re documenting your sends)

  • AirTag / Tile for bags if traveling by bus or Ridj-It

  • E-reader for cozy bunk nights

🧥 7. Clothing: the Rumney Uniform

Pack for all conditions. Rumney can be 75°F at the parking lot and 45°F in the shade of the crag.

Essentials:

  • Comfortable climbing pants/shorts

  • Moisture-wicking shirts

  • Warm layer (fleece or light puffy)

  • Windbreaker or softshell

  • Comfy camp clothes (sweatpants + hoodie life)

  • Wool socks

  • Extra underwear

  • Sports bra(s)

  • Beanie + gloves (October–May)

  • Rain jacket

Footwear:

  • Approach shoes

  • Climbing shoes

  • Flip flops / crocs for around the hostel

  • Camp shoes (if camping in cold weather)

📜 8. Important Papers & Money

  • ID

  • Credit/debit card

  • Bus ticket or Ridj-It ride confirmation

  • Cash (handy for shuttles, firewood, and local pizza)

  • Insurance card

  • Passport for our Canadian friends!

🔥 9. Optional but Awesome Extras

  • Crash pad (for Rumney bouldering)

  • Notebook for logging climbs

  • Cards or board games for the barn lounge

  • Yoga mat — morning stretch sessions hit different here

  • Tiny spice kit (if you like your camp meals gourmet)

  • Hammock

  • Stuff sack for dirty clothes

  • Portable coffee setup (Aeropress, etc.)

  • Polaroid or film camera for memory-making

  • Tupperware of homemade brownies – trust me, you’ll make instant friends

💛 Final Tips for Packing Smart

  • Pack light but thorough — if you’re arriving by bus or Ridj-It, don’t overload yourself.

  • Plan for variable weather — Rumney is known for its microclimates.

  • Don’t forget creature comforts — cozy clothes, a good book, snacks.

  • Leave space for souvenirs — the Barn Door merch wall has some bangers.

  • And remember: at Barn Door Hostel, anything you forgot you can probably borrow, buy, or trade for with the friendly crowd that hangs around the barn.

Rainy Days at Barn Door Hostel: Why Stormy Weather Is Secretly the Best Time to Be Here

Some people plan their trips around perfect bluebird days. But at Barn Door Hostel, we know a little rain doesn’t ruin the adventure — it redefines it. Honestly? A rainy day at the hostel might be one of the best possible ways to experience the soul of this place: cozy corners, strong coffee, friendly chaos, and the sound of weather hitting the tin roof while good people gather inside.

If you’ve ever wondered what happens at a climber hostel when the skies open up and Rumney’s cliffs turn into tiny waterfalls, this is your inside look. Spoiler: it’s magic.

☔ The Office: Your Rain-Rescue Headquarters

The Barn Door office on a rainy day becomes the heart of the universe. Walk through the door and you’re instantly greeted by warm light, soft couches, and the hum of people waiting out the weather. The vibe is equal parts living room, clubhouse, and indoor campsite.

Here’s what you’ll find as the rain pours and the crags drip:

1. The comfiest damn couches in New Hampshire

If your body is wrecked from projecting at Main Cliff, or you’ve been camping for days, these couches feel like a religious experience. People sprawl out with books, crash pads become makeshift loungers, and there’s always a blanket or two migrating around the room.

2. Free WiFi + abundant charging ports

Rainy days are recharge days — literally. Everyone plugs in dehydrated phones, dying cameras, and the random devices that haven’t seen an outlet since Boston. Whether you’re journaling, downloading beta, answering work emails, or streaming climbing videos, the office has you covered like the roof keeps the rain out.

3. Beer taps at arm’s reach

Yes, really. One of Barn Door’s greatest “it’s raining but we’re fine” features is the kegerator. Grab a glass, check in with staff, and enjoy a pint while the rain hammers the windows. Somehow beer tastes better when you can hear a storm.. it's science… (probably).

Pair your pour with communal snacks, hostel-style potluck spreads, or whatever someone left on the “free food” shelf that magically becomes irresistible on wet days.

4. The staff’s legendary Spotify playlists

If sunshine had a soundtrack, the Barn Door team would bottle it. Their playlists are a vibe moving between indie bops, bluegrass, throwback pop-punk, groovy classics, and whatever new track someone’s obsessed with that week.

There’s always a moment when the music hits just right and the whole room collectively forgets why they were bummed about the weather. Rainy spirits: lifted.

🌧️ What Rainy Days Look Like at the Hostel

Here’s the funny thing: rainy days actually show off what Barn Door is made of -community, creativity, and a little bit of organized chaos.

  • Someone’s editing climbing photos at the communal table

  • A hiker is journaling in the corner

  • Two new friends are debating which Rumney crag dries the fastest

  • Someone else is knitting, stretching, or strategizing their next send

  • Someone is definitely making noodles

  • People wander in with socks dripping, grab a towel, and instantly find a seat

  • Someone asks if “anyone wants to go check the weather radar,” even though everyone already has

You end up having conversations that only happen when nobody’s rushing off to climb: where you’re from, what you’re projecting, where you’re heading next. Rain slows everything down — in a good way.

🕯️ Cozy Vibes, Rumney Style

When the storm really sets in, the whole hostel feels like a giant climber cabin. There’s something deeply comforting about being surrounded by wet gear, steaming mugs, soft lighting, and the soundtrack of rain plus laughter.

People swap stories from their hardest whips, teach knots, share guidebook tips, or attempt questionable yoga poses on the office rug. Someone always has a deck of cards. Someone always has snacks. And someone always ends up staying longer than they planned.rain tends to do that to people.

🌈 And Then the Best Part… When the Rain Stops

Once the clouds start breaking up, the energy shifts. The room thins out as people start eyeing the drying forecast. Someone shouts, “Waimea dries fast!” Someone else is already halfway to the car. And then the mass exodus begins.

Within minutes, the hostel transforms from cozy clubhouse to launchpad — and people head out to chase whatever bit of dry rock they can find.

❤️ Because Rain Doesn’t Ruin a Trip ..It Makes It Real

At Barn Door Hostel, rain is part of the rhythm. And instead of fighting it, we embrace it: the music, the couches, the conversations, the shared vibes that only come out when the crags are soaked.

If you arrive and find the sky gray, don’t worry. Settle into the office. Grab a mug or a beer. Let the playlist hit. Watch the mountains through the window while the storm rolls through.

You’ll see why so many people say:

“My favorite day at Barn Door wasn’t even a climbing day.”

Ice Climbing in Rumney, NH: Why It’s Secretly One of the Best in New Hampshire

When most people think of Rumney, New Hampshire, they picture sun-drenched sport climbs on schist, jugs, crimps, and those classic overhung faces. But hidden in winter’s chill lies a less obvious — yet deeply rewarding — side of Rumney: ice and mixed climbing. If you’re looking for steep frozen flows and technical challenges a little closer to home (especially for Southern climbers), Rumney’s ice is a gem worth knowing.

🧊 What Makes Rumney’s Ice Special

1. Accessibility & Proximity

According to Mountain Project, Rumney has a dedicated “Ice Climbs” subsection with around 73 total ice and mixed climbs. (Mountain Project) While New Hampshire offers many big-name ice crags (like in the White Mountains), Rumney’s advantage is how close it is for many climbers coming from the south. As noted by climbers on MP, “it’s really fun … and much closer … than more popular ice areas.” (Mountain Project)

2. Unique Exposure = Unique Conditions

Rumney is primarily south-facing, which is a double-edged sword. On sunny winter days, ice can melt quickly. But on sustained cold, overcast stretches, that same exposure leads to ice that builds up and holds well. As MP’s Rumney Ice Climbs description explains:

“A few cloudy cold days can build the ice up … there is always something to climb in January and February—even early March.” (Mountain Project)

So, while the ice season here may be more fickle than at north-facing cliffs, when conditions align, Rumney becomes a steep, sun-warmed playground.

3. Classics + Variety

Some of Rumney’s most beloved ice climbs are technical, sustained, and serious enough to test experienced ice climbers — but there’s variety across the board. According to Mountain Project:

  • Geographic Factor (WI 5) in the Hinterlands area is one of Rumney’s crown jewels. (Mountain Project)

  • The Cave Route (WI 3) offers a wonderfully sculpted flow that sits in a natural rock “cave,” giving it character and an interesting climbing line. (Mountain Project)

  • There are also mixed lines and other flows in Bonsai Crag and other sections, though with strong ethical considerations (i.e., avoid damaging rock routes with ice tools). (Mountain Project)

4. Sun-Warmed Flows

Because of its exposure, Rumney’s ice can feel warmer than other crags. That warmth isn’t just physical — it’s psychological. When the sun hits frozen flows, the climbing feels less frigid and more “alive,” especially on long WI lines. This subtle warmth can make the climbs not just viable, but deeply enjoyable.

5. Community & Stewardship

Rumney isn’t just another crag — it has a long climbing history and a strong local climbing community. The Rumney Climbers Association (RCA) has worked closely with the U.S. Forest Service to manage climbing access. (AMC New Hampshire)

There are also management policies in place: for example, the Forest Service’s climbing plan notes there are ~50 ice/mixed routes and encourages climbers to avoid dry-tooling on pure rock climbs. That means the community cares about preserving both the rock and the evolving ice.

🧗‍♂️ Why Rumney’s Ice Might Be Better Than You Thought

  • Technical Challenge Without Huge Commitment: Unlike backcountry big-wall ice climbs, Rumney’s lines are often single-pitch or mid-length, making them accessible for a winter weekend trip.

  • Great for Learning / Guiding: Local guiding companies like Mooney Mountain Guides run ice climbing days at Rumney, teaching screw placement, anchor building, and movement on frozen terrain. (Mooney Mountain Guides)

  • Linking Potential: For ambitious climbers, combining routes or doing a multi-route session can feel nearly alpine in spirit, even though you're still in the crag setting.

  • Less Crowded (Sometimes): While rock climbing draws huge numbers to Rumney in spring and fall, ice climbing sees fewer crowds when the season is right — so you can enjoy more solitude on the ice.

  • Close to Home Base: If you're staying at a place like Barn Door Hostel or rooting around Rumney for a few days, ice climbing here mixes perfectly with your existing trip plans.

⚠️ Things to Know Before You Climb Ice at Rumney

  • Conditions Are Variable: Because of the sun and southern exposure, ice can form and disappear quickly. Be ready to check recent beta, and don’t count on every season being “full ice.”

  • Gear Matters: Climbing WI 4–5 lines (like Geographic Factor) demands solid ice gear — screws, sharp tools, two-rope rap plans, etc.

  • Respect the Ethics: There is mixed climbing in Rumney, but using ice tools on pure rock routes is strongly discouraged (and in some cases, monitored by the Forest Service).

  • Access & Parking: Like rock climbing at Rumney, parking can be tight, and approaches may involve trails that are icy themselves.

  • Choose the Right Guide or Partner: If you're newer to ice climbing, going out with a guide (like from Mooney Mountain Guides) is a solid call. (Mooney Mountain Guides)

✅ Bottom Line: Rumney Is a Hidden Ice Gem

When you think of New Hampshire ice climbing, you probably picture the big names — the Whites, Cannon Cliff, Franconia Notch. But Rumney deserves a spot on that list, especially for climbers who want something technical, accessible, and community-focused.

Rumney’s ice may not be massive alpine routes, but its steep, sun-warmed flows, classic lines, and local climbing ethosmake it uniquely rewarding. If you play your cards right — cold snap + cloudy days + good partner or guide — Rumney can surprise you in the best way.

So this winter: look beyond the typical ice crags. Bring your screws, warm layer, and sense of adventure. And don’t sleep on Rumney — you might just find your new favorite frozen playground.

A Winter Weekend in Rumney: Ice, Ski, and Cozy Up at Barn Door Hostel

Why Rumney Isn’t Just a Summer Climber’s Paradise

Rumney, New Hampshire, is well known for its sport climbing, but when winter rolls in, its cliffs take on a new identity: a hidden gem for ice and mixed climbing. The southern exposure of Rumney Rocks means ice can build after cold nights—even though the sun often melts it during the day. (Mountain Project) According to Mountain Project, some of Rumney’s most beloved winter lines include Geographic Factor, Selsun Blue, The Cave Route, Center Fold, and Franky Lee. (Mountain Project)

Top 5 Ice Climbs in Rumney (and Why They’re So Special)

Here are five standout ice climbs to consider for your winter adventure:

  1. Geographic Factor (WI 5)

    • Often regarded as Rumney ice’s crown jewel. (Mountain Project)

    • A steep, bold pillar that gives a true alpine feel despite being accessible from the crag.

    • Very rewarding when in, but can be thin or fragile depending on conditions.

  2. Selsun Blue (WI 4)

    • Located on the Venus Wall. (Mountain Project)

    • Flowy, sustained ice; one of the more reliable “classic” lines.

    • Builds well after cold nights, though midday sun can soften it.

  3. The Cave Route (WI 3)

    • Also on the Venus Wall. (Mountain Project)

    • More moderate, a great option for warming up or climbing with less risk.

    • Offers protected rests inside the cave — perfect for a mixed group or for folks new to ice.

  4. Center Fold (WI 3)

    • Climbs on the Parking Lot Wall. (Mountain Project)

    • Fun, walk-up flow. Less committing, but still very satisfying.

    • Ideal for a mixed-ability group or for those building confidence on ice.

  5. Franky Lee (WI 4+)

    • Also on the Parking Lot Wall. (Mountain Project)

    • More technical than Center Fold; sustained ice with good water flow when conditions are right.

    • For climbers who want a solid challenge without jumping into super extreme terrain.

Barn Door Hostel: Your Winter Basecamp

Here’s why Barn Door Hostel is the perfect place to stay for your Rumney winter trip:

  • Climber‑Friendly Vibes: The hostel was founded by climbers and remains a gathering spot for the climbing community. (The Hostel Group)

  • Affordability + Variety: You can choose between dorm beds (starting around $40) or private rooms. (Barn Door Hostel)

  • Fully Equipped Common Areas: There’s a shared kitchen, living room, projector, and power outlets at each bunk. (Barn Door Hostel)

  • Ski-Access: Through their “Ski & Stay” package, you can add lift-ticket deals to nearby resorts like Tenney Mountain, Waterville Valley, or Gunstock. (Barn Door Hostel)

  • Winter Retreats: The hostel runs retreats focused on snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or even learning to ski/snowboard. (Barn Door Hostel)

  • Location: It’s only a few minutes’ drive (or a very focused walk) from Rumney’s climbing areas. (The Hostel Group)

Planning an Unforgettable Weekend: Ice + Ski + Snowshoe

Here’s a sample itinerary to make the most of the trip:

Day

Morning

Afternoon

Evening

Friday

Arrive at Barn Door Hostel — settle in, meet other climbers

Take a short hike or explore winter trails around the hostel

Cook in the communal kitchen, relax by the fire, talk beta

Saturday

Head to Rumney Rocks for a full day of ice climbing — try Geographic Factor or Selsun Blue

Continue climbing or switch to lighter lines like The Cave Route

Return for an après climb hang, maybe a movie or gear talk in the common room

Sunday

Ski or snowboard at Tenney Mountain (or Waterville Valley / Gunstock) via hostel’s package

Take a scenic snowshoe or cross-country ski trip in the White Mountain National Forest

Pack up, swap stories, hit the road home or stay another night if you can’t get enough

Why This Trip Feels Different (in the Best Way)

  • Diverse Movement: You’re not just climbing ice — you’re hiking, skiing, and camping (or bunking) all in one trip.

  • Community-Driven: At Barn Door, you’re surrounded by people who get the climbing life — instant friends, beta sharers, maybe even a belay partner.

  • Accessible Adventure: Rumney’s ice is more “attainable” than alpine multi-pitch ice, while the ski resorts are close enough to make snow days easy to carve in.

  • Offbeat Charm: The hostel isn’t a corporate resort — it’s rustic, cozy, real. When night falls, the quiet of the White Mountains feels like your own private retreat.