Rock Climbing at the
Walnut Wall

The City of Chattanooga’s Walnut Wall overlooks the Tennessee River from a 50′ high limestone pillar of the historic Walnut Street Bridge in Coolidge Park. Located on the north shore of the river, the wall hosts special climbing programs and activities through Outdoor Chattanooga. Throughout the year our experienced rock climbing staff opens the Walnut Wall to give the public and/or private groups the opportunity to try vertical rock climbing. This is top-roped climbing (which requires a harness, rope, and a belayer) with route difficulty varying from beginner to intermediate. We provide all the equipment and instruction for free or a nominal fee so you don’t need prior experience or any gear to participate. These climbing events are geared for the whole family, ages 5+.

Rock the Climb

Reach new heights.

Rock the Climb

Reach new heights.

Rock the Climb

Reach new heights.

Rock the Climb

Reach new heights.

Rock the Climb

Reach new heights.

Rock the Climb

Reach new heights.

Rock the Climb

Reach new heights.

Rock the Climb

Reach new heights.

Rock the Climb

Reach new heights.

Rock the Climb

Reach new heights.

Rock the Climb

Reach new heights.

Registration is not required to participate. These sessions are designed to be drop-in anytime during the scheduled program. You’ll check-in, complete a waiver, get geared up, and be given the opportunity to climb the wall with some instruction provided. Closed-toe gym shoes and longer shorts or athletic pants are most appropriate for a comfortable harness fit. Lightning or heavy rain will cancel.

What You’ll Learn

  • Understand the risks and benefits involved in the sport of rock climbing.
  • Identify and properly use basic climbing equipment including a harness, a locking carabiner, a belay device, a ground anchor, etc.
  • Climbing safety procedures including “buddy checks” and belay commands.
  • How climbing routes are graded (to determine the difficulty of a climb)

FAQs

Is there an age or weight limit?

Yes. These climbing events are geared for the whole family, ages 5 and up. Minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian or parent who can sign the assumption of risk and liability release form. Climbers should not exceed the harness weight limit of 275lbs. 

What should I wear?

Closed-toe gym shoes and longer shorts or athletic pants are most appropriate for a comfortable harness fit. 

What if I'm afraid of heights?

A fear of heights is common and trying rock climbing in a controlled setting such as this can be a good step towards conquering that fear. This activity is “challenge by choice” which means you get to choose how much you challenge yourself and decide how high you climb. You can get 2ft off the ground or 50ft, our experienced staff will be there to encourage you and keep you safe. 

When are these offered?

These open climbs are offered sporadically throughout the year based on staff availability and other conditions. To request a private climbing program for your group or organization, please call 423-643-6888 or email info@outdoorchattanooga.com.

How do I sign up?

Registration is not required to attend. These sessions are designed to be walk-up, firts-come-first-climb, drop-in anytime during the scheduled program. You can call 423-643-6888 or email info@outdoorchattanooga.com to request this climbing experience for your group or organization.

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Did You Know?

Chattanooga is home to some of the best rock climbing in the country. Sandstone boulders and cliffs surround the city and provide climbers with a lifetime of challenging lines. For those who would like to try climbing for the first time, Chattanooga has three climbing gyms as well as local guiding services that can get you started in the sport.

Go Climbing!
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