Climbing in Charlotte, North Carolina

While much of the outdoor rock climbing in North Carolina takes place in the western reaches of the state, that doesn’t mean there aren’t several diverse and challenging routes closer to Charlotte. Thanks to a well-run indoor gym, a world-class outdoor adventure center, and several natural features, the Queen City has plenty to offer all types of climbers.

Inner Peaks has been the premier indoor rock climbing center in Charlotte since 1998. Their 13,000 square feet of climbing terrain challenge children’s teams and experts. The 46-foot spire at the U.S. National Whitewater Center offers a range of top-rope and boulder problems.

Just 30 minutes west of uptown Charlotte, Crowders Mountain State Park is the preferred training ground for many Charlotte athletes. The one mile Backside Trail from the Linwood parking lot allows a steep but short access to the quartzite crags of Crowders Mountain.

The centerpiece of Stone Mountain State Park is a 600 foot granite edifice, which seems to explode out of the surrounding terrain. The Great Arch, a 400-foot trad climb, is one of the most photographed routes in the area.