Whiteside Mountain: Multi-Pitch Climbing in the Heart of the Highlands

For climbers seeking long routes, jaw-dropping exposure, and the challenge of big-wall climbing in the Southeast, Whiteside Mountain stands tall as an unrivaled destination. Located near Highlands, NC, Whiteside is home to some of the steepest and most dramatic cliffs east of the Mississippi. This granite monolith boasts multi-pitch routes that attract climbers from all over the country, offering a unique mix of bold trad climbing and unparalleled views.

Whiteside Mountain’s routes are characterized by technical face climbing, delicate slabs, and heart-pounding exposure. Classics like Original Route (5.10a) and Traditions (5.9) take climbers up to 800 feet of sheer granite, rewarding every pitch with panoramic vistas of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. For advanced climbers, Odyssey (5.12a) offers a thrilling combination of steep faces and intricate moves.

The nature of Whiteside’s climbing is bold and traditional. Protection can be sparse, with many routes featuring runouts that demand confidence and experience. Climbers here must embrace the old-school style of the region, relying on skill and mental fortitude as much as physical strength.

Whiteside Mountain is not just a climb; it’s an adventure. The towering granite walls, the echo of your partner’s calls, and the vast expanse of the Blue Ridge Mountains below create an experience that is equal parts humbling and exhilarating.