USNWC - Climbing

Review

Intro

The U.S. National Whitewater Center is an amazing facility offering a huge collection of outdoor activities. In the water or on land, there really is something for everyone. But if you like up and over more than under, through, or around, then it’s the climbing center for you. Reaching over 40 feet, the outdoor climbing wall is one of the tallest in the southeast.

What Makes It Great

The greatest thing about the USNWC might be how easy they make it to try a bunch of different sports. In a typical day you can raft a rapid, bike a trail, zip from tree to tree, and climb a wall. The ease of transition can help a die-hard trail runner give climbing a go without missing their trail time. 

Comprised of two sections with over 40 roped climbs and totaling about 5,700 feet of climbing surface, the climbing center at the USNWC is built to accommodate all levels of athlete. The climbing wall, made to feel like natural granite, offers roped climbs up to 30 feet and a sizable bouldering area. One side of the wall is generally dedicated to kids and first time climbers leaving a lot of room for everyone.

The second section, an uncovered Spire, is a 46 foot monolith designed for longer climbs and provides a fantastic view of the facility.

Offering everything from beginner lead climbing, belay classes, and personalized instruction, the USNWC helps newbies and intermediate climbers up their game.

Who is Going to Love It

The climbing facility at the USNWC holds enough challenge for experienced climbers to get in a workout. But where they really shine is for the newbie who wants to see what climbing is all about without a ton of investment.

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

Parking costs either $5 for one visit or $40 for a yearly pass at the USNWC. The Center offers several types of passes – either for one sport, a full day of activities, or a season pass that includes most activities. Certain activities can be closed for weather so check the website before you go.