Living in WNC means having the best of both worlds: city life with the great outdoors just minutes away. If you’re still putting together your summer bucket list (don’t worry, we are too), we’re here to help you get some outdoor adventure on there.

Our current #MustTry is rock climbing. No experience?? Never fear, here is our guide to literally hanging out in WNC. (Bonus: bookmark our guide to tubing the French Broad here).

We’re laying it all out for newbies (learn about belaying, grab some guided practice + warm up those muscles); taking it outdoors (where to go; what you need) and where to gear up (rentals + buy) here. ⬇

For the newbies

If you’re still adjusting or starting from scratch, head over to any of these climbing gyms for some guided practice. Instructors are on hand to help you learn the ropes (literally) and guide you through climbs with less risk of injury.

🧗ClimbMax | 📍43 Wall St. | 828-252-9996

This family-run business in downtown is a great spot for practicing bouldering. They offer both group courses and private instruction in climbing basics, belay refreshers + lead skills.

🧗Smoky Mountain Adventure Center | 📍174 Amboy Rd. | 828-505-4446

Larger than ClimbMax and has more opportunities for lead climbing + training. Plus, it has snacks, food + a bar.

🧗Fox Mountain Guides | 📍23-A South Broad St., Brevard | 888-284-8433

A great option if you want to start climbing outside. They have single day trips + multi-day trips, and are customizable if you plan on going with friends.

Hop in the Car

Once you know the ropes, it’s time to get out there. Here are some of the best spots around WNC.

🧗Rumbling Bald | 📍Chimney Rock, NC 28746 | Level: Beginner–Advanced | 🚘 ~45 minutes from AVL
Rumbling Bald is massively popular with climbers due to its proximity to town. And, it offers climbs for all skill levels. Bring shoes, chalk + a crash pad if you plan on bouldering.

🧗Looking Glass Rock |📍Brevard, NC 28712 | Level: Intermediate–Advanced | 🚘 ~55 minutes from AVL

Looking Glass Rock is best for intermediate and advanced climbers, but if you can swing it, this spot offers some of the best views in WNC.

🧗Linville Gorge |📍Marion, NC 28752 | Level: Beginner–Advanced | 🚘 ~an hour and a half from AVL

Good for intermediate/advanced top roping + beginner bouldering. However, the boulders do not have as easy of an access as Rumbling Bald.

🧗Holloway Mountain | 📍Blowing Rock, NC | Level: Beginner | 🚘 ~two hours from AVL
Great for beginner top roping. Directions can be found through the Mountain Project website.

Gear Up!!

You will be able to rent gear through any gym or guided program. But, if you plan on making rock climbing your full time hobby, renting weekend after weekend can get expensive. Visit any of these places if you’re considering purchasing your own gear.

🧗Second Gear | 📍444 Haywood Rd. | This West Asheville shop carries great used gear at a more affordable price.

🧗Diamond Brand Outdoors | 📍1378 Hendersonville Rd. | Hit up this South Asheville or downtown spot to grab your climbing gear and everyday wear.

🧗R.E.I. | 📍31 Schenck Pkwy. | Located in Biltmore Town Park Square, check them out in store or online.

🧗Frugal Backpacker | 📍52 Westgate Pkwy | Right next to EarthFare, this adventure store is great for all-things adventurous in Western North Carolina. Bonus: The friendly staff is all about providing pro tips and advice.

🧗Mast General Store | 📍15 Biltmore Ave. | Check out Mast for some of the best climbing trip accessories.

🧗Black Dome Mountain Sports | 📍140 Tunnel Rd. | This family-operated full-service shop is located in East Asheville and is dedicated to gearing up climbers with all the necessities.

The after party

Climbing is hard on the body. Make sure you stretch it out afterwards – maybe hit a yoga class or grab a cold beer to cool down. (Bonus: Our guide to yoga studios here.) Remember that self care is key to any adventurous activity so be gentle on yourself and don’t forget the epsom salt.

The perfect day looks like a great climbing adventure, with a well-earned cold beer after.

Just keep in mind that climbing can be a very strenuous and sometimes dangerous activity, so always have a climbing buddy.

What are your favorite routes, gyms or stores we may have forgotten? Reply to this email, comment on the article or comment on Instagram or Facebook.

Bonus: What other #AdventureSeries do you want to see?

Keep on climbin’, Asheville!

–Audra + Stephanie