Climbing Locations in North Carolina
Rock Dimensions operates under a Special Use Permit issued by the U.S. Forest Service for guiding in Pisgah National Forest and a commercial use permit for areas of the Blue Ridge Parkway, NPS.
Crowders Mountain State Park
Crowders Mountain is located 25 miles west of Charlotte, near Gastonia, NC. At an elevation of 1,625 feet, the 800-foot pinnacles of Crowders are actually a part of the Appalachian chain that formed millions of years ago. On a clear day, Charlotte can be seen from the tops of these peaks. The sheer cliffs abound with footholds and handholds for beginner and intermediate climbers. Crowders Mountain is a good option for winter trips on its easy south facing rock sites. Spring and fall are also great seasons.
Pilot Mountain State Park
Pilot Mountain rises 1,400 feet above the surrounding Piedmont near Winston Salem, N.C., with an elevation of 2421 feet. Pilot Mountain’s Big Pinnacle is a highly visible knob, seen standing solid as a mountain of rock that has withstood the elements that eroded the foothills around it. The mountain, dedicated as a National Natural Landmark in 1976, is a part of the ancient Sauratown Mountain Range. Climbing sites are located on the Little Pinnacle.
There are fairly primitive group campsites available for $1/person and a family campground with more modern facilities for $12/site. Both campsites contain a table and grill/fire pit. Call the park for reservations and information.
Pilot Mountain State Park website
Rocky Face Park
Rocky Face Recreational Area is an Alexander County park located in Hiddenite, NC. Formerly a rock quarry (early 1900s), the mountain offers a south facing rock face with climbing opportunities for various levels of ability. Since May 2012 the recreational area opened to the public as a county park and climbing became a major activity. Rock Dimensions facilitates rock climbing programs at the park during the annual Spring RockyFest, at the Fall Rock Climbing Festival, and with Scout troops and other groups throughout the year. The best seasons for climbing at Rocky Face are Fall, Winter, and Spring. For Scouts and other groups wishing to camp, there is an easy back country site established with reservations required.
The Chimneys of Linville Gorge
Linville Gorge was formed by the Linville River, which now meanders some 2,000 feet below the rim of the gorge. This wilderness area is part of Pisgah National Forest, located in the Mountains of N.C. The gorge offers breathtaking views, and a variety of climbing options, exciting rappels, and for a unique recreational experience, an exhilarating Tyrolean Traverse! Primitive camping, suitable for groups, is available about a quarter mile from the parking lot and picnic area. In the summer, Linville Gorge is a nice break from the heat and humidity of the Piedmont. Fall brings an array of colors to the forest, in addition to perfect camping weather. In spring, the rhododendrons and mountain laurel are in beautiful bloom.
Pisgah National Forest website
Wilson Creek Area
Wilson Creek begins its journey at Grandfather Mountain and flows into Johns River 23.3 miles downstream. Surrounded by Pisgah National Forest, the creek makes its way through some of the oldest rocks in the Southern Appalachians. The climbing is scenic and exposed, with views of Grandfather and Grandmother Mountains. Primitive camping is available along the forest service roads near the climbing access.
Pisgah National Forest website