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Pine Creek Rock Climbing

Climbing Area Map

Routes in Pine Creek

	Captain Hook T 5.11a 6c 22 VII+ 22 E3 5c A3+ PG13
	Cave Route T 5.11+ 7a 24 VIII 24 E4 6a R
	Rhino Load T 5.10+ 6b+ 21 VII+ 20 E3 5b PG13

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GPS:	36.45143, -84.62645 Google Map · Climbing Area Map
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Shared By:	KHall on Jul 27, 2009 · Updates
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Description

Pine Creek is the first large wall on the left you will see when entering the main gorge area. The wall faces Northwest and gets afternoon sun. The 200'+ white sandstone cliff has several multi-pitch routes. Many are possible in a downpour due to the sheer steepness and the huge roofs on the wall.

Pine Creek is for the truly adventurous. The approach is very steep (up hill both ways) and involves crossing a class V creek. The trail is "faint" at best. Excellent cross-country skills are a must. The reward is some of the finest rock quality and adventure climbing in the south.

The climbing at Pine Creek is not for the novice leader. The routes are steep and committing. Most if not all routes require some aid climbing. With ledge fall potential a real possibility. For the advanced climber, Pine Creek offers some of the finest climbing in the gorge.

Watch out for rattlesnakes.

Getting There

From Oneida, TN Follow TN297W to Verdun RD. Make a left-south onto Verdun RD. After approx. 1/2 mile make a right onto the O&W Railbed. Follow the railbed for approx. 6 1/2 miles. A small pull off for Pine Creek is on the left. It is recommended that you recon the approach from the road.

First, walk back down the railbed until you are about even with wall across the valley. Look for a left and right facing corner system that leads to a large cave about 150' up the wall. Orient yourself and take off!

Next, drop straight down the gully to a sandy area with large boulders by the creek. You may or may not find a faint trail. Just follow the path of least resistance. Work your way across the creek. Be careful crossing the class IV-V creek! You will be wading in the creek, hopping/climbing boulders, and the terrain can be treacherous at best. DO NOT ATTEMPT AT HIGH WATER LEVELS!! Once across regain you bearing and march straight up the other side to the base of the cliff and find a "good" climbers trail.

The cliff is broken up by two main ledge systems-East/West-and the prominent corners to the cave. Both ledges are accessible by a 75' 4th class scramble. Good Luck!