Cathi climbs the exposed arete on Peek-a-Boo
Summer break is over, and it’s time to get back on the rock!
The weekend of September 14-15 will be our trip to Linville Gorge, North Carolina. Situated northwest of Morganton, NC, Linville Gorge provides an abundant range of multi-pitch traditional climbs in a beautiful setting.
The easiest approaches and easiest climbing are at Table Rock Mountain. For those willing to endure a more adventurous hike and more committing climbing, NC Wall and the Amphitheater offer a broad range of difficulties in a more remote setting. All three of the aforementioned areas are best accessed via the Table Rock trailhead.
For folks looking to take it up a notch, Shortoff Mountain offers more difficult, committing climbing in a remote setting. This area is recommended for experienced multi-pitch teams only.
For this trip, the “official” camping spot will be Steele Creek Park & Campground. The club will be hosting a dinner there on Saturday night. Steele Creek is located about 40 minutes from the Table Rock trailhead, and 30 minutes from the Shortoff trailhead. Both roads are unpaved, but in decent condition. Your Honda Civic will make it just fine, but it’s probably best to leave the Lamborghini at home.
For those on a budget or planning to stay in one place, there is free primitive camping at both Table Rock and Shortoff. Be advised there is no potable water at Table Rock, so you should bring your own. The only water source at Shortoff is a spring near the top of the mountain.
If there is enough interest, we may be able to get a large cabin at Steele Creek. If you’re interested in the cabin, please email David Chisnell <djc263@gmail.com> and let him know how many in your party would be staying.
Please also email Dave if you will be attending the dinner on Saturday night. We need to know how many people to cook for!
Folks should make their own arrangements to carpool and camp. We have started a new Google group for club members to communicate with each other, so consider using that if you’re looking for someone to ride with.
