Rock Climbing in Pilot Mountain

57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.

We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, guides and the communities they’re travelling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in North Carolina, please refer to the North Carolina Official Webpage.

Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!

What you get in this adventure:

• • An experienced, local rock-climbing guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  • A full day of rock climbing with a private guide
  • All technical climbing gear

What’s not included:

• • NC State Parks charge $35.00 per day for commercial climbing access — your guide splits this expense with you
  • Transportation
  • Accommodations
  • Food and snacks

If you can climb a ladder, you’re good to go. Being in good shape is always a plus but far from necessary. Rock climbing is all about using good movement technique rather than muscling up a cliff using brute strength. To ensure you have a fun day, your guide will choose routes that best suit your skill and fitness level.

Pilot Mountain has plenty of options for beginner climbers. Whether you’ve never climbed before or are transitioning from the gym to outdoor climbing, your guide will customize the day to suit your skill level and objectives. With a guide by your side, you’ll learn something new, stay safe on the rocks, and most importantly, have fun!

For intermediate to advanced climbers, Pilot Mountain has loads of routes to spend the day on. Your guide will discuss your objectives and customize the day to your goals. Let your guide plan the day so you can focus on developing your skills while climbing the classic routes or best hidden gems the area has to offer.

All technical climbing equipment will be provided by your guiding service. However, if you have your own gear, feel free to bring it. You’ll need:

• • Helmet
  • Harness with a locking carabiner, belay device, and chalk bag
  • Rock shoes (included in the price, but we recommend bringing your own if you have them)
  • Ropes
  • Climbing hardware (quickdraws, cam devices, stoppers, etc.)

Here’s a list of the equipment we suggest you bring:

• • Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 40L bag)
  • Water bottle
  • Food you can eat on-the-go
  • Toiletries (sunscreen, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  • Sunglasses
  • Camera — optional

Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Group sizes and prices:

• • For this adventure, the max client to guide ratio is 6:1 and cost is per person.
  • Costs per person decrease as the group grows for private tours, so it’s the perfect opportunity to climb with friends and family.
  • Climbing days can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking.

Min. age requirements:

• • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  • Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to climb on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
  • For most options, kids aged 8 and up can go out and try climbing!

If your group has climbers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

To get to the Pilot Mountain, most people fly into Charlotte Douglas International Airport or Raleigh-Durham International Airport, both about 2 hours away. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Winston-Salem which is half an hour away from the climbing site.

Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet. The exact climbing spot will be discussed after the booking. Guides determine exact locations after considering the skill level of the group and factors such as crag traffic and weather.