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Elevation: 3,841 ft 1,171 m
GPS: 35.2591, -82.8004
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Shared By: Darren B. on Mar 25, 2010 · Updates
Admins: Ky Bishop, Steve Lineberry, Aaron Parlier
Warning Access Issue: Post Hurricane Helene Accessibility of Crags DetailsDrop down

Description Suggest change

Stone Depot is the ugly step-child of Cedar Rock, due in part to the length of the hike and the limited number of climbs. Located behind Cedar Rock, Stone Depot offers less than a dozen moderate climbs ranging from 5.5 to 5.8 or so, and most are two pitches to get to the top.

Since Cedar Rock provides more climbs of a more difficult rating, most people will find themselves alone at Stone Depot, even on a mild weekend afternoon. This, combined with the chance to do relatively simple and well protected sport/trad multi pitch climbs without fear of holding up other climbers, makes Stone a nice destination on an otherwise busy day.

Stone faces northwest, giving it a lovely warmth on a cool early spring day, but it will most likely become quite hot during the summer months. Like much of the surrounding climbs, Stone was still experiencing significant runoff, even four or five days after a rain, but dry climbs are still available.

Routes were well bolted, but many beginner climbers will want to take advantage of the occasional placement to supplement the protection from bolt to bolt. Rappel rings/belay stations are available on most routes and are typically visible from the bottom of the routes. Rappel down from routes or take the long walk off if you'd like.

Make sure you take the time to enjoy the view of Looking Glass during your climb!

Getting There Suggest change

Follow the guidebooks to Cedar Rock. Hike off to the left of the road, pass the gate and walk on the forest service road. Hike as if going to Cedar. You'll get to Butter Gap after a mile or so of road hiking. Butter Gap is clearly marked.

The approach to Stone Depot has changed as of 2024. Visit the Carolina Climbers Coalition's map for updates: carolinaclimbers.org/conten…

12 Total Climbs

Route Finder - Best Climbs for YOU!

Location: Stone Depot Change
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Classic Climbing Routes at Stone Depot

Mountain Project's determination of the classic, most popular, highest rated climbing routes in this area.
5.5 4b 13 IV+ 11 MS 4a
 28
Dave's Delight
Sport 4 pitches
5.7 5a 15 V+ 13 MVS 4b
 71
North By Northwest
Sport 5 pitches
5.7 5a 15 V+ 13 MVS 4b
 16
Pistol Pete
Trad, Sport 3 pitches
5.7 5a 15 V+ 13 MVS 4b
 4
North by Northwest variation
Trad, Sport 3 pitches
5.7 5a 15 V+ 13 MVS 4b
 4
Mr. Browning
Sport 3 pitches
5.7 5a 15 V+ 13 MVS 4b
 48
Trinacious
Sport 4 pitches
5.8 5b 16 VI- 15 HVS 4c PG13
 8
Groove Connection
Trad, Sport 3 pitches
Route Name Location Star Rating Difficulty Date
Dave's Delight
 28
5.5 4b 13 IV+ 11 MS 4a Sport 4 pitches
North By Northwest
 71
5.7 5a 15 V+ 13 MVS 4b Sport 5 pitches
Pistol Pete
 16
5.7 5a 15 V+ 13 MVS 4b Trad, Sport 3 pitches
North by Northwest variation
 4
5.7 5a 15 V+ 13 MVS 4b Trad, Sport 3 pitches
Mr. Browning
 4
5.7 5a 15 V+ 13 MVS 4b Sport 3 pitches
Trinacious
 48
5.7 5a 15 V+ 13 MVS 4b Sport 4 pitches
Groove Connection
 8
5.8 5b 16 VI- 15 HVS 4c PG13 Trad, Sport 3 pitches
More Classic Climbs in Stone Depot »

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