Cumberland Plateau Climbing

Chattanooga, Tennessee is situated directly in the heart of the Cumberland Plateau, also termed, from the rock climber's point of view, the Sandstone Belt. Extending almost 150 miles, from Cookeville, Tennessee, southwest to Gadsden, Alabama, the Plateau is characterized by its extensive and diverse topography. Cold water streams and creeks spill down steep canyons; extensive cave systems form in the low-lying limestone layer, while up on the ridges, bands of clean, white sandstone offer some of the best rock climbing anywhere in the United States. Blessed with a mild year-round climate, solid rock and an impressive inventory of high quality routes, the Chattanooga area is a worthwhile destination for any traveling climber. And don't forget to bring your paddling gear and mountain bike, 'cause in Chattanooga, it's all just a stone's throw away! Please use the navigation to view a brief description of three of the premier crags of the Cumberland Plateau:

The Tennessee Wall
Foster Falls
Sunset Rock

If you are visiting Chattanooga for outdoor recreation, the Chattanooga Visitors Bureau has a book called The Southeast Tennessee Outdoor Recreation Guide. We recommend picking one up, it's very helpful.

If you are visiting Chattanooga to rock climb, here are a couple of options for camping:
Sunset Park - Raccoon Mountain Campgrounds and Caverns (423) 821-9403 / (800) 823-2267
Tennessee Wall - Camping is free at all at the parking area. Break-ins have occurred here more than once. Be sure to hide your valuables so that Bubba don't get tempted to smash your window.

Be sure to check out our great selection of climbing gear at Rock/Creek.