Welcome to the Boone Adventure Guide’s Best Climbing Adventures section. Below you will find information on adventure climbing and bouldering in the Boone, NC area including Table Rock, Shiprock, The Dump, Blowing Rock Boulders, and the Footsloggers Tower.

Table Rock (Linville Gorge)

// 3 Comments » // Boone Climbing

When it comes to adventure climbing, the Linville Gorge ranks near the top.  The rugged setting, tough approaches, and miles of towering cliffline offer climbers a chance to get out and explore the possibilities.  For those more interested in easy approaches and fun climbing, look no further than Table Rock Mountain.  With an abundance of well-protected, three-pitch routes and beautiful views from the summit, Table Rock is a top destination for those looking to sample a climbing adventure at the Gorge.

Directions from Boone: Take 105 S for 17 miles to Linville.  Turn right on Hwy 221 S for 3.4 miles to left on Hwy 181 S.  Follow for 6.4 miles to the second Gingercake Acres Rd. marked with a large sign for the Linville Gorge.  Take a slight left onto Table Rock Rd and follow for 5.4 miles to right at the sign to Table Rock, and follow the steep paved road for roughly 1 mile to parking area at the top.

Shiprock (Linville)

// 3 Comments » // Boone Climbing

The crown jewel of the High Country is the phenomenal trad climbing area of Shiprock.  Located on the eastern side of Grandfather Mountain, Shiprock offers climbers incredible views of Grandfather Mountain and the Pisgah Forest below.  The area features an abundance of traditional single and multipitch climbs from 5.7 to 5.12+ covering everything from splitter cracks to run out slabs.

Directions from Boone: Take 105 S for 17 miles to Linville.  Turn left onto Hwy 221 N for 3 miles to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Take a left onto the Parkway and head north for 5.8 to mile marker 303/Rough Ridge parking area.  The climbing area is accessed by hiking south for .5 mile, around the sharp turn, to an unmarked trail on the right.

The Dump – Warpin’ Endorphin’ (Blowing Rock)

// 3 Comments » // Boone Climbing

Though the name might lead you to think otherwise, the Dump is one of the most revered sport climbing spots in the area. With roadside access, a plethora of hard routes, and a handful of moderates, the area has been known to draw a crowd. The crag gets midday sun, perfect in the winter, but a little toasty in the afternoon. Get there early and warmup on the moderates at the beginning of the cliff before jumping on the area test-piece, Ride the Lightning.
Directions from Boone: Take Hwy 321 S for 6.8 miles to right onto 321 Business in to Blowing Rock. At the first stoplight turn right onto Hwy 221. Follow 221 towards Linville for 10.1 miles, pulling off at the large gravel pullout on the left. The crag is across the road up a good trail.

Blowing Rock Boulders (Blowing Rock)

// 2 Comments » // Boone Adventures, Boone Climbing

First tapped for their bouldering potential in 1985 by Joey Henson, the Blowing Rock Bouldering Area features a wide-range of problems from V0 to V10.  With flat landings, incredible rock quality, a beautiful forest setting, and more than enough problems for the visiting climber to work through, the Blowing Rock Boulders are the place to be during the prime climbing season in the High Country.  Start at the 5.10 and Pump Walls for a nice warm-up, then hit the Classic Arete before tackling the more difficult lines at the area.

Directions from Boone: Take Hwy 321 S for 6.8 miles to right onto 321 Business in to Blowing Rock.  At the first stoplight turn right onto Hwy 221.  Follow 221 for 1.6 miles to parking area on left at the rest area.

Footsloggers Tower (Boone)

// 2 Comments » // Boone Climbing

Perfect for those interested in learning how to climb, or those looking to get in a quick workout in town, the Footsloggers climbing tower offers a great variety of routes for all skill levels.  Rock Dimensions guide service offers a “Tower to Rock” day that allows participants to warm-up on the tower and learn the fundamentals before heading out to one of the local crags for an afternoon of rock climbing.  Rock Dimensions also offers guided trips, climbing shoe and bouldering pad rentals, and multiple instructional courses for those just learning the ropes or climbers seeking to hone their existing skills through certification-based courses

Directions from Boone: This adventure is smack in the middle of downtown off King St. at 139 S. Depot St.