Pilot Mt. State Park Climbing Project

Pilot Mountain State Park is one of the most popular destinations for rock climbing in North Carolina. The park is within a two-hour drive of most major North Carolina cities and within a day-trip distance for over 10 million people.

Pilot Mountain State Park staff have been incredible to work with. Because of the significant relationship between park staff, the Carolina Climbers Coalition, and local route setters Woody Holliman and Bill Webster, we have added many new routes over the past ten years, replaced dozens of aging bolts, and improved trails.

Your generous donations will be used for the following purposes:

NEW ROUTE DEVELOPMENT: Bill Webster and Woody Holliman have put in many new routes at Pilot. They have spent countless hours working with park staff, cleaning routes, and bolting. They are willing to continue setting new lines but need financial help to purchase bolts, epoxy, drill bits, rings, and other supplies.

TRAIL DEVELOPMENT: The existing hiking trail must be relocated in several locations, and other trail sections require ongoing maintenance. Hiker and climber coexistence is an ongoing problem at Pilot and must be addressed before some new routes can be established. In addition, sustainable trails and belay areas must be provided. A portion of the funds raised will be sent to the Carolina Climbers Coalition for its C4 Trail Crew. Learn more about the CCC C4 Trail Crew at: https://carolinaclimbers.org/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=20

MUSSEY HOOKS: In a recent meeting with park staff, it was agreed that replacing descending rings with Mussey Hooks on moderate routes would likely reduce the risk of accidents due to climber error on lowering. Mussey Hooks are currently on backorder; they will be a priority once available.

Routes don't appear by magic. Trails don't build themselves. Route maintenance takes time. Mostly, we don't ask climbers to do these things, but we do ask for financial assistance.

If you climb at Pilot please donate so we can improve and expand this amazing resource.