It’s no secret that the greater Chattanooga area is one of the best places in the nation for rock climbers. From challenging boulders and towering cliffs to indoor climbing walls, there’s something here on offer for anyone from beginners to advanced climbers. Climb your way up the famous Sunset Rock for beautiful views of the valley below, or visit Foster Falls, a premier climbing area in the Southeast that features a challenging cliff line and a stunning 60-foot waterfall. Regardless of what you choose, you’re sure to have a great day of climbing in and around Chattanooga.

Indoor Climbing

For beginners looking to get into climbing in a more controlled environment, or those simply in search of climbing opportunities without the unpredictability of the elements outside, there are great indoor climbing facilities all over Chattanooga and the surrounding area. High Point Climbing and Fitness, which has two locations in Chattanooga as well as a location in Cleveland, features 45-foot indoor climbing walls as well as outdoor climbing walls, as well as a kids’ zone and boulder courses. Rental climbing gear is available, as are classes for indoor climbing, fitness, and guided outdoor climbing.

If you’re looking for indoor climbing courses, another great option is Synergy Climbing and Ninja, a climbing and training gym located in downtown Chattanooga. This gym, established by world-class athletes, has a 10,000-square-foot bouldering arena, as well as a Tennessee Bouldering Authority training area. Synergy offers climbing classes for both beginners as well as more experienced climbing and bouldering enthusiasts.

Outdoor Climbing

While Chattanooga has some excellent climbing gyms throughout the city, there’s an abundance of outdoor climbing and bouldering spots in the area as well. Along the western side of Lookout Mountain is Sunset Park, which is home to one of Chattanooga’s most popular scenic locations: Sunset Rock. There are routes featuring a range of difficulty up the cliffs there, and once atop the rock, climbers are treated to gorgeous views. 

Another popular climbing area near Chattanooga is Stone Fort, located on Mowbray Mountain just north of the city. Known as “Little Rock City,” Stone Fort is one of the most well-known bouldering areas in the entire country, and is one of the venues for the annual Triple Crown of Bouldering competition. Stone Fort is divided into different sections and has over 700 established bouldering problems, which makes it a perfect spot for climbers at any skill level.

The Tennessee Wall, or “T-Wall,” which lies at the rim of the Cumberland Plateau along the Tennessee River Gorge, is another highly acclaimed climbing spot in the Southeast. Located in Prentice Cooper State Forest, this cliff features over 600 documented routes waiting to be explored. However, it’s important to note that since the cliff wall faces southwest, it can be incredibly hot during the summer months, so it might be best to plan a climb for cooler times of year. 

Those seeking a water sport adventure will love the 50-foot cliff line of Lake Nickajack, which lies to the southwest of Chattanooga and is perfect for deep water soloing. Foster Falls, just outside of Chattanooga, is another well-known spot for deep water soloing with quality sandstone and features climbing paths of varying difficulty as well as the beautiful titular waterfall, which is sure to make for a memorable day in the great outdoors.

And the options don’t stop there. Those looking to scale cliffs and climb rock faces can do so at places like Castle Rock and Denny Cove in the Fiery Gizzard Gorge, Leda on Mowbray Mountain, and Laurel Falls/Buzzard Point in the Laurel Snow Pocket Wilderness. For climbers looking to get in some bouldering, Pep Boys at Mowbray Mountain or Rocktown in North Georgia could be the place for you. No matter which spot you choose, you’re bound to have a great climbing experience.