CountyEthics

Spofforth Pinnacles

Gritstone · Partial exposure · 50m altitude

Likely safe

Condition Analysis

AI-powered assessment using site data and 14-day weather history

22h ago
Today
Likely Safe to Climb
95%
confidence

Spofforth Pinnacles has had 8 consecutive dry days following only trace rainfall, with warm temperatures and moderate winds — conditions are excellent for climbing today. The freestanding blocks with south/west aspects will have dried thoroughly in these ideal summer conditions.

Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.

Crag Considerations
  • The pinnacles are freestanding blocks in an open meadow, meaning they receive wind and sun on all sides and dry significantly faster than cliff faces or sheltered crags.
  • The rock can be sandy in places, so even when dry, some holds may feel gritty — brush holds before committing to moves.
  • Very limited parking (space for ~2 cars) means arriving early or visiting midweek is advisable to avoid disappointment.
  • The south/west aspect and low altitude make this a reliable summer venue that dries quickly after light showers.
Reasoning
Moisture State

With 8 consecutive dry days, only 3.6mm total in the last 28 days, and the last measurable rain being just 0.6mm on August 5th, the rock will be thoroughly dry both internally and externally.

Drying Analysis

The south/west-facing freestanding blocks at low altitude have benefited from sustained warm temperatures (averaging ~20°C), low humidity (~60%), and moderate westerly winds — far exceeding the minimum 24–48 hours needed after trace rainfall.

Structural Risk

No structural risk whatsoever; the rock has been dry for over a week with negligible recent rainfall, so compressive strength is at full capacity.

Seasonal Factors

Mid-summer conditions are optimal — long days, warm temperatures, and low humidity all favour rapid and complete drying of gritstone.

Contributing Factors 6
Extended dry spell
97%

Eight consecutive dry days with only trace precipitation (0.6mm) on the last wet day provides far more than the required drying time.

Warm summer temperatures
95%

Average temperatures around 20°C with peaks above 30°C have driven rapid evaporation of any residual moisture.

Low humidity levels
93%

Average humidity of 60% over the last week is well below saturation, allowing effective net evaporation from the rock.

Moderate persistent wind
90%

Consistent winds of 14–24 km/h have helped move moist air away from rock surfaces, aiding drying.

Freestanding blocks in open meadow
95%

The isolated pinnacle format means all faces receive airflow and sunlight, eliminating the seepage and drainage issues common at cliff crags.

Heavy rain forecast Aug 18
80%

18.1mm of rain is forecast for August 18th, which will require 48–72 hours of subsequent drying before conditions are safe again.

Recommendations 3
  • Conditions are excellent — climb with confidence today and over the next two days before the weather changes.
  • Arrive early given the very limited parking (only ~2 car spaces available).
  • Be aware that heavy rain is forecast for August 18th; plan your sessions for the 14th–16th window for best conditions.

Previous Analyses

Likely Safe to Climb 95%
2 days ago
Today
Likely Safe to Climb
95%
confidence

Spofforth Pinnacles is in excellent condition today. The last meaningful rain was 8 days ago (0.6mm on Aug 5), with only a trace 0.1mm on Aug 6, and the crag has enjoyed 7 consecutive fully dry days with warm temperatures, moderate humidity, and decent wind — more than sufficient drying time for these freestanding gritstone blocks.

Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.

Crag Considerations
  • The pinnacles are freestanding blocks in an open meadow, meaning all faces receive airflow and the S/W aspects get strong afternoon sun — this dramatically accelerates drying compared to quarried or wooded crags.
  • The rock can be sandy in places, so even when dry, some holds may feel gritty or loose — brush holds before committing and be mindful of fragile features.
  • Very limited parking (space for ~2 cars) means arriving early or visiting midweek is advisable, especially in summer conditions like these.
  • Heavy rain forecast on Aug 17 (28.5mm) will require at least 48–72 hours of dry weather afterwards before conditions are safe again.
Warnings 1
  • Extreme heat today (up to 35°C) — bring plenty of water, sun protection, and consider climbing in the shade or during cooler morning/evening hours.
Reasoning
Moisture State

With only trace precipitation in the last two weeks (3.6mm over 28 days, last significant event 0.6mm on Aug 5) and 7 consecutive dry days, the rock will be thoroughly dry both on the surface and internally.

Drying Analysis

The S/W aspect receives strong solar radiation through the afternoon, and consistent westerly winds at 15–24 km/h over the past week have provided excellent evaporative drying — far exceeding the 24–48 hour minimum needed after light rain.

Structural Risk

No structural risk from moisture; the rock is well into its dry state and there is no freeze-thaw concern in August with overnight lows staying above 9°C.

Seasonal Factors

Mid-summer conditions are ideal for gritstone climbing, with long days, warm temperatures, and the rock at its strongest and driest seasonal state.

Contributing Factors 6
Extended dry spell
97%

Seven consecutive dry days since the last trace of rain (0.1mm on Aug 6), with only 3.6mm total in the past 28 days, ensures thorough drying.

Warm summer temperatures
95%

Average temperatures around 19–26°C over the past week, peaking at 35°C today, strongly promote evaporation and rock drying.

Favourable S/W aspect
95%

South and west-facing freestanding blocks in open meadow receive maximum afternoon solar heating, which is the best possible drying scenario.

Moderate wind exposure
90%

Consistent winds of 15–25 km/h from westerly directions have aided moisture removal from the rock surface throughout the drying period.

Low average humidity
92%

Average humidity of 60% over the past week, dropping to 22% this afternoon, allows efficient evaporative drying.

Heavy rain forecast Aug 17
80%

A significant 28.5mm rainfall event is forecast for Aug 17, which will reset conditions and require 48–72+ hours of drying afterwards.

Recommendations 3
  • Conditions are excellent — enjoy the pinnacles today and through Aug 16, but plan around the heavy rain forecast for Aug 17.
  • Use a soft brush on sandy holds before climbing, as the rock here can be gritty even when dry.
  • Arrive early to secure one of the two parking spaces, or consider visiting midweek to avoid competition for access.
Likely Safe to Climb 93%
3 days ago
Today
Likely Safe to Climb
93%
confidence

Spofforth Pinnacles is in excellent condition today. The last meaningful rain was 1.3mm on August 3rd (9 days ago), with only trace amounts since, and the rock has enjoyed 6 consecutive fully dry days with warm temperatures, moderate wind, and low humidity — more than sufficient drying time for these freestanding gritstone blocks.

Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.

Crag Considerations
  • The pinnacles are freestanding blocks in an open meadow, meaning they receive airflow on all sides and dry significantly faster than cliff faces or enclosed crags.
  • The sandy texture of the rock at this venue can mean surface grain loosening is more noticeable — even when dry, be mindful of sandy holds.
  • Very limited parking (space for ~2 cars) means visiting during peak summer afternoons may cause access friction with locals or the landowner.
  • South and west aspects receive strong afternoon solar radiation, which today will push rock surface temperatures very high — consider climbing in the morning or evening to avoid heat-related fatigue.
Reasoning
Moisture State

Total precipitation in the last 9 days is just 0.7mm (trace amounts on Aug 4–6), with 6 fully dry days since; internal moisture levels will be negligible for these relatively small, freestanding gritstone blocks.

Drying Analysis

Six consecutive dry days with temperatures averaging ~22°C, humidity around 60%, and moderate westerly winds of 18–24 km/h on a south/west-facing open site provide far more drying than needed for trace rainfall amounts.

Structural Risk

Structural risk is very low — the rock has been effectively dry for over a week and there is no freeze-thaw concern in August; holds should be at full strength.

Seasonal Factors

Mid-summer conditions are ideal for gritstone climbing, with long days, warm temperatures, and generally favourable drying; today's 30°C+ peak may make afternoon climbing uncomfortable but does not affect rock integrity.

Contributing Factors 6
Extended dry period
95%

Six consecutive dry days following only trace precipitation (0.7mm total Aug 4–6) means the rock is thoroughly dried out.

Warm summer temperatures
95%

Temperatures have averaged around 22°C over the past week with today reaching 30°C, strongly promoting evaporation.

Moderate wind exposure
90%

Winds of 18–24 km/h over recent days have aided surface and subsurface drying across the freestanding blocks.

Favourable S/W aspect
90%

South and west-facing aspects receive strong solar radiation through the afternoon, accelerating drying on all exposed surfaces.

Freestanding block geometry
92%

Isolated pinnacles in an open meadow dry much faster than cliff bases or enclosed crags due to all-round airflow and drainage.

Trace rain forecast tomorrow
85%

A forecast 0.1mm on Aug 13 is negligible and unlikely to wet the rock meaningfully.

Recommendations 3
  • Conditions are excellent — climb with confidence today, though consider morning or evening sessions to avoid peak heat above 30°C.
  • Arrive early to secure one of only two parking spaces, especially on a warm summer day when the site may attract visitors.
  • Keep an eye on the forecast for August 16–17, when 2–4mm of rain is expected — plan accordingly if you're visiting later this week.
Likely Safe to Climb 95%
5 days ago
Today
Likely Safe to Climb
95%
confidence

Spofforth Pinnacles is in excellent condition for climbing. The last meaningful rain was 2.4mm spread across Aug 3–6, with four consecutive fully dry days since, warm summer temperatures, moderate wind, and a favourable south/west aspect — the rock will be thoroughly dry.

Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.

Crag Considerations
  • The pinnacles are freestanding blocks in an open meadow, meaning all faces receive wind and sun, promoting fast and even drying compared to crags set into hillsides.
  • The rock can be sandy in places, so even when dry, some holds may feel gritty — brush sandy holds before committing to moves.
  • Parking is extremely limited (roughly 2 cars), so consider arriving early or mid-week to avoid access issues.
  • Being low-altitude (50m) freestanding boulders with south/west aspect, these dry significantly faster than typical north-facing gritstone edges.
Reasoning
Moisture State

Total precipitation in the last 7 days was only 1.2mm in trace amounts, and the rock has had 4 fully dry days with warm temperatures (17–26°C) and moderate westerly winds — internal moisture will have fully evaporated.

Drying Analysis

The south/west aspect and open, freestanding nature of the pinnacles means excellent solar exposure and airflow on all sides; even the modest traces of rain (0.1–0.6mm per event) would dry within hours in these summer conditions.

Structural Risk

No structural risk — the rock has been effectively dry for well over a week with only negligible trace precipitation, so there is no internal moisture to compromise grain cohesion.

Seasonal Factors

Mid-summer conditions are ideal: long daylight hours, warm temperatures averaging ~17°C over the last week, and no freeze-thaw concerns whatsoever.

Contributing Factors 5
Extended dry spell
97%

Only 3.6mm of rain in the entire last 28 days, with the bulk of that in trace amounts — the rock is comprehensively dry.

Warm summer temperatures
95%

Temperatures consistently 17–26°C over the past week provide excellent evaporative drying conditions.

Favourable aspect and exposure
95%

South/west-facing freestanding blocks in an open meadow receive maximum sun and wind from all directions, accelerating drying.

Moderate wind
90%

Sustained winds of 14–31 km/h over recent days have continuously moved moist air away from rock surfaces.

Moderate humidity
85%

Average humidity of 67% over the last week is typical for summer and does not impede drying given the wind and warmth.

Recommendations 3
  • Conditions are excellent — head out and enjoy the session, particularly this afternoon when humidity drops below 45%.
  • Brush sandy holds with a soft boar's-hair brush before climbing, as the rock can be gritty in places.
  • Check the weather forecast before the weekend of Aug 15, as light rain (0.6mm) is forecast — still negligible but worth monitoring.
Likely Safe to Climb 95%
5 days ago
Today
Likely Safe to Climb
95%
confidence

Spofforth Pinnacles should be in excellent condition. Only trace amounts of rain have fallen recently (2.5mm over the last 7 days, with the most significant being 1.3mm on Aug 3), and the crag has had 2–3 full dry days with warm temperatures, moderate wind, and a favourable south/west aspect — more than sufficient to dry such minimal moisture from these freestanding blocks.

Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.

Crag Considerations
  • The pinnacles are freestanding blocks in an open meadow, meaning all faces get good airflow and sun exposure, promoting rapid and thorough drying from all sides.
  • The rock can be sandy in places — gritstone grain loosening is more likely on sandy-textured sections, so even in dry conditions take care on any patches that feel gritty or friable.
  • Very limited parking (space for ~2 cars) means arriving early or having a backup plan is advisable, especially on warm summer weekends.
  • Being low-altitude (50m) freestanding boulders with flat landings, these dry significantly faster than cliff faces with seepage lines or sheltered aspects.
Reasoning
Moisture State

The last meaningful rain was 1.3mm on Aug 3 (6 days ago), followed by only trace amounts (0.5mm on Aug 4, 0.6mm on Aug 5, 0.1mm on Aug 6), with 3 fully dry days since — the rock will be thoroughly dry internally given the minimal total precipitation.

Drying Analysis

The south/west aspect combined with warm temperatures (20–26°C), moderate humidity (56–68%), and steady westerly winds (18–24 km/h) over the past 3 dry days provides excellent drying conditions, far exceeding what's needed for sub-2mm rainfall events on freestanding blocks.

Structural Risk

With such minimal recent rainfall and thorough drying, there is negligible risk of strength loss or hold breakage from internal moisture.

Seasonal Factors

Mid-summer conditions are ideal for gritstone climbing — long days, warm temperatures, and good solar radiation maximise drying potential.

Contributing Factors 6
Minimal recent precipitation
97%

Only 2.5mm total over the last 7 days, all in trace amounts (max single event 1.3mm on Aug 3), well below the threshold requiring extended drying.

Three full dry days
95%

No precipitation since Aug 6's trace 0.1mm, providing ample drying time for such light rainfall on porous freestanding blocks.

Warm summer temperatures
95%

Temperatures of 17–26°C over the drying period significantly accelerate evaporation from the rock.

Favourable aspect and exposure
93%

The south/west-facing freestanding blocks receive strong solar radiation and benefit from the prevailing westerly winds, maximising drying.

Moderate humidity levels
90%

Humidity averaging 64% over recent days allows effective evaporation without impeding the drying process.

Steady wind exposure
92%

Winds of 18–24 km/h from W/SW over the past few days help move moist air away from rock surfaces on these open, freestanding blocks.

Recommendations 3
  • Conditions look excellent — enjoy the session, but as always check the base of the blocks for any lingering dampness as a quick field test.
  • The rock can be sandy in places, so brush holds gently with a soft boar's-hair brush before committing to moves.
  • Arrive early or confirm parking availability — space for only ~2 cars and summer weekends can be busy.
Likely Safe to Climb 92%
6 days ago
Today
Likely Safe to Climb
92%
confidence

Spofforth Pinnacles is in excellent condition for climbing. Only trace amounts of rain have fallen recently (2.5mm over the past week, spread across several days), and the freestanding blocks with south/west aspect and good wind exposure will have dried thoroughly — today's warm, low-humidity conditions (26°C, 56% RH) confirm strong drying.

Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.

Crag Considerations
  • The pinnacles are freestanding blocks in an open meadow, meaning all faces receive wind and sun — they dry significantly faster than cliff-face crags with sheltered recesses.
  • The rock can be sandy in places, so holds may feel gritty even when fully dry; this is a characteristic of the venue rather than a sign of moisture damage.
  • Very limited parking (space for ~2 cars) means visiting midweek or early morning is advisable to avoid disappointment.
  • Being low-altitude (50m) freestanding boulders, ground moisture and dew can linger at the base of blocks on cool mornings — check lower problems if arriving early.
Reasoning
Moisture State

The maximum single-day rainfall in the past 28 days was only 1.3mm, and the most recent trace precipitation (0.1mm on Aug 6) is negligible — the rock is thoroughly dry internally and externally.

Drying Analysis

Two full dry days with warm temperatures (20–26°C), moderate humidity (56–64%), and decent westerly winds on south/west-facing freestanding blocks provide far more drying than these trivial amounts of rain require.

Structural Risk

With the rock fully dry after an extended period of minimal rainfall, there is no meaningful risk of hold breakage or structural damage from moisture-weakened sandstone.

Seasonal Factors

Mid-summer conditions are ideal for gritstone climbing — long days, warm temperatures, and generally good drying conditions; no freeze-thaw concerns whatsoever.

Contributing Factors 5
Minimal recent rainfall
95%

Only 2.5mm total over the past 7 days and 3.6mm over 28 days, all in trace amounts — far below thresholds that would cause meaningful saturation of gritstone.

Warm dry conditions today
93%

26.3°C with 56% humidity and a SW breeze directly onto the main faces provides excellent evaporative drying.

Freestanding open-aspect blocks
95%

Unlike cliff faces, these isolated pinnacles in an open meadow receive sun and wind from all directions, dramatically accelerating drying.

Extended dry summer spell
90%

A near-continuous dry spell stretching back to mid-July means no residual deep moisture is present in the rock.

Light rain forecast tomorrow
85%

A forecast 0.4mm on Aug 9 is negligible and would not materially affect rock condition, though it may briefly dampen surfaces.

Recommendations 3
  • Conditions are good — enjoy the climbing today with confidence.
  • If arriving early morning, check lower sections of the blocks for overnight dew before committing to low problems.
  • Use a soft boar's-hair brush only, and be mindful of the sandy texture on some holds — brush gently to avoid accelerating grain loss.
Likely Safe to Climb 92%
7 days ago
Today
Likely Safe to Climb
92%
confidence

Spofforth Pinnacles is in excellent climbing condition. The last 28 days have seen only 3.6mm of total precipitation, all in negligible traces, and today is dry with moderate temperatures, low-ish humidity, and a good westerly breeze — the freestanding blocks with south/west aspects will be thoroughly dry.

Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.

Crag Considerations
  • The pinnacles are freestanding blocks in an open meadow, meaning all faces receive airflow and dry rapidly compared to cliff-foot settings.
  • The rock can be sandy in places — grain loosening is a natural characteristic here, so always test holds even in dry conditions.
  • Very limited parking (space for ~2 cars) means planning arrival time carefully, especially on summer weekends.
  • South and west aspects receive direct afternoon sun, making late-afternoon/evening sessions ideal for both conditions and temperature comfort.
Reasoning
Moisture State

Total precipitation over the past 28 days is an exceptionally low 3.6mm spread across several trace events (max 1.3mm), meaning the rock has had no meaningful wetting and internal moisture levels will be negligible.

Drying Analysis

The most recent trace rain (0.1mm on Aug 6, 0.6mm on Aug 5) is trivial and the south/west-facing freestanding blocks with partial wind exposure and today's 20°C/65% humidity/20 km/h westerly breeze will have dried any surface moisture within hours.

Structural Risk

With such minimal rainfall and extended warm, breezy summer conditions, there is no meaningful risk of internal moisture weakening or hold breakage.

Seasonal Factors

Mid-summer conditions with temperatures consistently above 17°C and moderate humidity provide excellent drying; no freeze-thaw risk whatsoever.

Contributing Factors 4
Negligible recent rainfall
95%

Only 3.6mm total over the past 28 days, with no single event exceeding 1.3mm — far below any threshold that would meaningfully wet porous gritstone.

Excellent drying conditions
93%

Sustained summer temperatures (17–25°C), moderate humidity (61–79%), and consistent winds (15–31 km/h) have provided ample drying capacity over many days.

Favourable aspect and exposure
95%

South/west-facing freestanding blocks in an open meadow receive maximum solar radiation and airflow, accelerating evaporation from all surfaces.

Moderate humidity today
90%

Today's 65% humidity with 20 km/h westerly wind provides good evaporative conditions, well below the threshold where drying stalls.

Recommendations 3
  • Conditions are excellent — enjoy the session but still give holds a visual check for any localised seepage or dampness in recesses.
  • Be aware of the sandy texture on some holds; test carefully even in dry conditions as grain loosening is a natural feature of these blocks.
  • Arrive early or plan carefully for parking — only space for about 2 cars near the site.
Likely Safe to Climb 90%
9 days ago
Today
Likely Safe to Climb
90%
confidence

Spofforth Pinnacles is in excellent condition for climbing. Only trace amounts of rain have fallen recently (0.6mm on Aug 5, 0.5mm on Aug 4, 1.3mm on Aug 3), and the south/west-facing freestanding blocks with moderate wind exposure will have dried these negligible amounts very quickly — well within the one dry day since the last trace precipitation.

Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.

Crag Considerations
  • The pinnacles are freestanding blocks in an open meadow, meaning all faces receive wind and sun — they dry significantly faster than cliff-based crags with sheltered recesses.
  • The rock can be sandy in places, so even when dry some holds may feel gritty or loose-grained; brush holds before committing.
  • Very limited parking (space for ~2 cars) means arriving early or at quieter times is advisable, especially on weekends.
  • The broader 28-day period has been remarkably dry (only 3.5mm total), so deep rock moisture is essentially nil — an unusually good baseline for gritstone.
Reasoning
Moisture State

Total precipitation over the last 3 days amounts to only 2.4mm of very light, scattered rain, and the preceding 3+ weeks were almost entirely dry (only 1.0mm combined from Jul 25–31), meaning deep rock moisture is negligible.

Drying Analysis

The south/west-facing freestanding blocks in an open meadow with consistent 20+ km/h westerly winds will have dried trace rain amounts (sub-1mm events) within hours, and today has been fully dry with moderate wind.

Structural Risk

With the rock having been essentially dry for weeks and only trace moisture events recently, there is no meaningful risk of internal saturation or strength loss — structural integrity is at full baseline.

Seasonal Factors

Mid-summer conditions with temperatures around 18–25°C, moderate humidity (60–70%), and long daylight hours provide excellent drying conditions for gritstone.

Contributing Factors 5
Negligible recent precipitation
95%

Only 2.4mm fell across three separate trace events (Aug 3–5), with each event under 1.3mm — far below thresholds that would meaningfully wet porous rock.

Extended prior dry spell
95%

The 28-day total of just 3.5mm means deep rock moisture reserves are essentially zero, providing an excellent dry baseline.

Favourable aspect and exposure
90%

South/west-facing freestanding blocks in an open meadow receive good solar radiation and wind from all directions, maximising drying rate.

Moderate wind and temperature
90%

Consistent 15–30 km/h winds and temperatures of 18–25°C over recent days provide effective evaporative drying.

Humidity around 68%
85%

Average humidity of 68% is moderate — not ideal but far from the levels that would impede drying of already-dry rock.

Recommendations 3
  • Conditions are good — head out and enjoy the bouldering, particularly during the drier afternoon window when humidity drops below 55%.
  • Brush sandy holds with a soft boar's-hair brush before climbing, as the rock can be gritty in places.
  • Keep an eye on the forecast for Aug 10 (3mm rain expected) and plan any return visits accordingly.
Do Not Climb 92%
11 days ago
Today
Do Not Climb
92%
confidence

Spofforth Pinnacles received 7.8mm of rain today including heavy showers this morning and further rain forecast this afternoon and evening, making the gritstone currently wet and unsuitable for climbing. The rock needs at least 24–48 hours of dry weather to recover, and tomorrow's forecast includes another 0.7mm of rain with high humidity.

Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.

Crag Considerations
  • The pinnacles are freestanding blocks in an open meadow, meaning all faces receive some wind and sun exposure, which aids drying compared to enclosed crag settings.
  • The south and west aspects will benefit from afternoon sun and prevailing westerly winds, but the sandier surfaces at this venue can feel deceptively dry on top while retaining moisture internally.
  • As a bouldering venue with problems starting from ground level, the lower sections of the blocks — which stay wet longest — are precisely the sections climbers will be pulling on.
  • Very limited parking (2 cars) means if you do visit to assess conditions, arrive early to secure a spot and be prepared to walk away if the rock is damp.
Warnings 2
  • Gritstone loses significant strength when wet — climbing today risks permanent hold breakage and route damage at this irreplaceable venue.
  • The surface may appear dry before the interior has recovered; check ground moisture at the base of the blocks as a reliable indicator.
Reasoning
Moisture State

Today's 7.8mm of rain (with showers continuing into the evening) has thoroughly wetted the gritstone, following 1.4mm yesterday — the rock is currently saturated and at significant risk of strength loss.

Drying Analysis

Despite the south/west aspect and partial wind exposure, drying cannot meaningfully begin until the rain stops tonight, and tomorrow's continued light rain (0.7mm) and 78% humidity will stall the drying process until August 6th at the earliest.

Structural Risk

Gritstone at only ~1% saturation already loses significant compressive strength, and with today's thorough wetting the holds are at serious risk of breakage — climbing now would risk permanent damage to this charming venue.

Seasonal Factors

Mid-summer temperatures (18–27°C) and moderate winds are favourable for drying once rain ceases, meaning recovery should be relatively quick — likely 24–48 hours after the last meaningful rainfall.

Contributing Factors 6
Heavy rain today
95%

7.8mm of precipitation today with multiple shower bursts has saturated the gritstone blocks thoroughly.

Ongoing showers this evening
90%

Further rain at 16:00 (2.7mm) and 21:00 (3.0mm) means the rock will remain wet through the night.

Tomorrow's light rain
80%

0.7mm forecast for August 5th with 78% humidity will delay the start of effective drying.

Favourable aspect for drying
85%

South and west-facing freestanding blocks in an open meadow will receive good sun and wind once dry weather arrives.

Strong winds from Wednesday
80%

Sustained winds of 27+ km/h from August 5–6 will significantly accelerate surface drying once rain stops.

Summer temperatures
85%

Daytime highs of 18–20°C with moderate humidity from August 6th onward provide reasonable evaporative conditions.

Recommendations 3
  • Do not climb today — the rock is actively wet and further showers are expected this afternoon and evening.
  • The earliest realistic window is Thursday August 7th after two full dry days, but check the base of the blocks for residual moisture before climbing.
  • If visiting later this week, bring a soft brush and test holds gently before committing to harder problems, especially on lower sections that dry last.
Marginal — Assess Conditions 72%
12 days ago
Today
Marginal — Assess Conditions
72%
confidence

Spofforth has had an exceptionally dry spell over the past month with only trace precipitation, and the rock should be thoroughly dry right now. However, 1.2mm of rain is logged for today (most falling this evening from ~20:00 onward), so conditions are excellent through the afternoon but will deteriorate by evening — a visual check on arrival is prudent given the morning humidity.

Based on weather conditions only — does not cover bird nesting restrictions or other access issues.

Crag Considerations
  • The boulders are freestanding in an open meadow, meaning all faces get good airflow and the S/W aspects receive strong afternoon sun — these dry significantly faster than cliff-base rock.
  • The rock can be sandy in places, meaning loose grains may be more prevalent after even light wetting; check holds carefully on sandy-textured problems.
  • Very limited parking (2 cars) means arriving early is advisable both for conditions and access; a quick session is typical here.
  • As isolated pinnacles, there are no seepage lines or drainage from above, but horizontal cracks and ledges can trap small pools after rain.
Warnings 1
  • Rain is forecast from approximately 20:00 this evening — do not climb on freshly wetted gritstone; leave before showers arrive.
Reasoning
Moisture State

The last meaningful rain was 0.7mm on July 26 (8 days ago), followed by only trace amounts (0.1mm on July 30 and 31), meaning the rock interior should be thoroughly dry heading into today.

Drying Analysis

The S/W aspect and freestanding nature of the pinnacles, combined with warm temperatures (19–25°C) and moderate westerly winds over recent days, provide excellent drying conditions — any trace moisture from the 0.1mm events would have evaporated within hours.

Structural Risk

With the extended dry period (effectively 28+ days of near-zero precipitation), internal moisture content should be negligibly low and structural risk is minimal for climbing before this evening's rain.

Seasonal Factors

Mid-summer conditions are optimal with long daylight hours, warm temperatures, and good solar angles on the S/W faces — this is the best time of year for gritstone.

Contributing Factors 5
Extended dry spell
95%

Only 2.4mm total in the past 28 days, with just trace amounts in the last week, meaning the rock should be deeply and thoroughly dry.

Today's evening rain
80%

Around 0.9mm of rain is forecast from 20:00 onward tonight, which will wet the surface and begin the next drying cycle.

High morning humidity
70%

Humidity was 79–85% overnight and into early morning, potentially causing surface condensation on the rock, though this should burn off by mid-morning.

Warm afternoon conditions
85%

Temperatures reach 25°C+ with humidity dropping to 35% and moderate easterly wind (~20 km/h) from late morning, creating excellent surface drying conditions.

Freestanding boulders
90%

The pinnacles sit in an open meadow with 360° airflow, meaning all faces benefit from wind and sun exposure for faster drying than typical crag settings.

Recommendations 3
  • Climb this afternoon (roughly 10:00–19:00) when humidity drops below 55% and temperatures are warm — this is the best window before evening rain arrives.
  • Check the sandy-textured holds carefully before committing, as even minimal overnight condensation can loosen surface grains.
  • Avoid climbing after 20:00 tonight when showers begin, and allow at least 24 hours of dry weather before returning after today's rain.

Climbing Outlook

Today 15 Aug
Likely Safe 95%
Sat 15 Aug
Likely Safe 93%
Sun 16 Aug
Likely Safe 90%
Mon 17 Aug
Marginal 65%
Tue 18 Aug
Do Not Climb 90%
Wed 19 Aug
Do Not Climb 75%

Analysis Calendar

August 2026