castle rock

Castle Rock is a unique 30-acre asset owned by the Tennessee River Gorge Trust and managed through a partnership with the Southeastern Climbers Coalition. This climbing locale lies within the viewshed of the Tennessee River Gorge and is protected in perpetuity for rock climbers. The property was donated by Harvey Cameron and the Conservation Fund. The bluff line is almost a half-mile in length with sections up to 120 feet tall and close to 100 sport and traditional routes. Grades range from 5.7 – 5.13 with one of the hardest routes in the State of Tennessee, Apes on Acid (5.13d)!

While the Tennessee River Gorge Trust owns the property, including the climbing bluff itself, we added greater strength to its protection by partnering with the Land Trust for Tennessee granting them a Conservation Easement. The parking area and access trail to Castle Rock was built by Wild Trails and is leased and managed by the Southeastern Climber's Coalition. The Access Fund was instrumental in nurturing these partnerships and providing advice throughout the process. All of these partnerships make Castle Rock possible and highlight the collaborative spirit between Chattanooga's nonprofit organizations and our community members. 

RAPTOR NEST AT CASTLE ROCK

There is exciting news at Castle Rock! In 2020, a Peregrine Falcon nested on the bluff at Castle Rock. Please be aware of nesting raptors and report any sightings to info@trgt.org. We are working with the Southeastern Climbers Coalition to manage the area appropriately. Please note that climbing or visiting an area with a nesting raptor is likely to disturb the birds and negatively influence breeding success. Thank you for being considerate of the wildlife that reside here!