Pickens, South Carolina

Looking for the best rock climbing in Pickens? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Pickens. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Rock Climbing Spots in and near Pickens

  • Highlands, North Carolina

    Bouldering Granite City

    5.0
    0.3 mi / 96 ft gain
    At the foot of Blackrock Mountain just outside of Highlands, North Carolina, lies one of the most unique and secluded natural playgrounds around.  Granite City is composed of several massive granite boulders, ranging between 10-40 feet tall.  This spot is most popular for bouldering (mostly V0-V2...
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  • Highlands, North Carolina

    Hike the Whiteside Mountain Loop

    5.0
    2 mi / 595 ft gain
    Whiteside Mountain is simply breathtaking, there is no way around it.  Views of the mountain from the South expose its sheer granite face, which runs almost its entire length East-to-West.  However, the views of the mountain are just the beginning, as this hike climbs to higher heights than just ...
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  • Tuckasegee, North Carolina

    Paradise Falls

    4.3
    0.74 mi / 167 ft gain
    To the north of Panthertown lies a chain of dammed lakes that are some of the most peaceful waters in Western North Carolina. These make up the headwaters of the East Fork of the Tuckasegee River. The gorges that run between the top lakes are wild, scenic, and adventurous to even the most experie...
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  • Cullowhee, North Carolina

    Exploring two legendary Cherokee sites: Judaculla Rock and Devil's Courthouse, North Carolina

    5.0
    0.9 mi / 258 ft gain
    Judaculla was an ancient Cherokee spirit being and giant. He ruled in western North Carolina in the traditional Cherokee homeland. Once while chasing some hunters, when he jumped to the ground, his hand hit a rock. You can still see the print on Judaculla Rock. It is the most elaborate piece of r...
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  • Otto, North Carolina

    Hike to and Climb Pickens Nose

    4.8
    1.5 mi / 200 ft gain
    From the parking area (fits about 6 cars) follow the trail on the same side of the road up the ridge through dense rhododendron. Several spur trails branch off of the main trail and lead to rock outcroppings with excellent views. Getting to the parking area is slow. The narrow gravel road winds...
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  • Lake Lure, North Carolina

    Boulder at Rumbling Bald

    4.5
    1.5 mi
    Located off of Boys Camp Rd. in Lake Lure, North Carolina, Rumbling Bald is a huge boulder yard that has been in use since the 1970's and has begun to flourish. Conveniently at the trail head is a gravel parking lot with three Port A Johns to use. Make sure you get to the parking lot early thou...
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  • Black Mountain, North Carolina

    Eagle Rock

    0.7 mi / 151 ft gain
    Eagle Rock is located in Chimney Rock State Park and is a hot spot for climbers and hikers! The hike to the overlook at Eagle Rock is 0.4 miles, and it's one of the most bang-for-your-buck trails in the area. We love to picnic out on the rock as it's in the sun most of the day. If you decide to...
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