Rock climbing at Pilot Mountain is a great place to take first-timers along with more advanced climbers who need practice. The 60-foot quartzite cliffs provide a great training ground for those learning knots, belaying, and climbing techniques.
Most climbing routes are located along the Ledge Springs Trail. There are some interesting routes like Copper Top, a large rock face capped by a 15-foot roof, or the classic Devil in the White House, a 15-foot low-angled, blocky face with a roof just before the top's ledge. Underneath the main parking lot are higher cliffs at 300 feet. Unfortunately, climbing and rappelling are not permitted on the Big Pinnacle and has been closed to visitors since the late 1970s (for conservation reasons).
Before you start your climb, you must register with the park's office, and you must keep in your possession the rock climbing permit. Refer to the park's climbing guide for designated routes. Note that the Pee Break and Big Gully routes are closed to climbing, hiking and rappelling.
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March 17, 2018Spring Brings Antiques, Food & Fun to Downtown Pilot Mountain
The quaint foothills town, named for the landmark quartzite knob just a mile or so south, houses a mix of mom-and-pop retail shops, antiques stores, cafes, coffeehouses and bed-and-breakfast inns.
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Oct. 16, 2017Autumn Options: See the Yadkin Valley on Horseback
For horse owners who want to ride in the area, the 25-mile Sauratown bridle and hiking trail connects Pilot Mountain and Hanging Rock state parks.
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The winery, located in Pilot Mountain with a frame-worthy view of its namesake peak, enjoyed an award-winning year in 2018, bringing home a trove of gold medals, as well as Best of Show in Sonoma.
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Nov. 30, 2017Enjoy Holiday Light Displays In and Around Mayberry
Plenty of cozy lodging options are available in Mount Airy and Surry County, ranging from award-winning hotels and bed-and-breakfast inns to rental cabins and vacation homes.