News

Chimney Rock climb set to benefit Boys & Girls Club

By Bill Moss, Published: February 25, 2013

CHIMNEY ROCK — Those thirsting for the thrill of climbing majestic rock cliffs hundreds of feet above Hickory Nut Gorge can try the adventure on Saturday while helping the Boys & Girls Club of Henderson County.

Climbin' the Chimney is an opportunity to get elevated in a new way—on a rope. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Chimney Rock will offer lessons with one of the South's leaders in climbing education, Fox Mountain Guides.
Proceeds will be donated to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Henderson County.
Beginners can climb on Vista Rock and rappel off a rock slab, while experienced climber can test their skills on two difficult routes up the iconic Chimney. Two to four climbs and rappels are offered for $20 plus park admission. All equipment is provided and no experience is necessary. In addition to guided rock climbing, community partners will offer rock climbing education near Cliff Dwellers Gifts in the top parking lot. Diamond Brand Outdoors will give talks on various climbing equipment on display. North Carolina State Parks will present information on recreational climbing in Hickory Nut Gorge, including Rumbling Bald Climbing Access, and climbing while protecting the environment's ecology, such as geology, endangered plants and animals. Get more details at chimneyrockpark.com.
Those who would rather keep both feet on solid ground may join a Park naturalist for the "Off the Beaten Path" Guided Hike: Tree ID from 1-3 p.m. for no additional cost with paid admission. Enjoy the serenity of Chimney Rock in winter and learn how to recognize trees and shrubs without their leaves. Participants will see more than a dozen different trees along an easy two-hour woodland excursion. No signup is necessary and the hike is limited to 25 people. Meet at Grady's Den on the Meadows.
Rumbling Bald Mountain is a 1,100-acre collection of cliffs and boulders in Chimney Rock State Park. Though still somewhat of a hidden gem, Rumbling Bald is considered world-class climbing and bouldering with some of the best terrain in the Southeast. Its boulder fields contain an estimated 1,500 bouldering problems that are easily accessible. The most popular climbing seasons are fall and winter. For directions, parking and information on the Rumbling Bald Climbing Access, visit www.ncparks.gov.