Mountain Project Logo

Yonah or Sand Rock?

Original Post
Crack Slabbath · · Chattanooga · Joined Jan 2013 · Points: 500

I'm taking two friends from Florida climbing this weekend and I'm wondering where to take them. I've whittled it down to Sand Rock or Mount Yonah. Not stellar crags, I know. But both are close to Atlanta, have plenty of easy routes while offering relative scenery (over looking the valley from SR's pinnacle ain't too shabby).

I've never been to Yonah, but if there's car camping I'll probably go there. Is there? Thoughts?

Mark O'Neal · · Nicholson, GA · Joined Oct 2009 · Points: 3,323

You can car camp at Yonah right out of the north end of the parking lot. It also depends what you want to climb. If you like slab with a longer approach, go to Yonah. Otherwise brave the crazies and go to Sandrock

Crack Slabbath · · Chattanooga · Joined Jan 2013 · Points: 500

Thanks, Mark. I guess I'll make the call about braving the Sand Rock crazies around 3:05 Friday afternoon!

The Flying Dutchman · · Unknown Hometown · Joined Oct 2011 · Points: 20

So long as your guys aren't afraid of heights or a long approach yonah is great. Took my sister up there about 2 weeks ago, she had never been outside before and only climbed in the gym 2 or 3 time. She's in the navy so she's fit and tough, thought nothing of it. The hike was a breeze, but we got to the caable on the first pitch of those sport climbs and she lost it. Started crying and freaking out. Had a panic attack at the belay. Last time I take a non climber up there. She said she would rather live the rest of her life in bit can than ever go rock climbing again.

I do have to admit that I am a bit of a sand rock fan though. No approach, good assortment of climbs with various styles, plenty of friendly people, can access top ropes on many climbs, just a good place for having a couple beers outside and calling it a day of rock climbing.

Chuck Parks · · Atlanta, GA · Joined Jan 2008 · Points: 2,190

To people from Florida, walking uphill for more than 15 minutes is beyond comprehension. Go to Sand Rock.

Nathan Self · · Louisiana · Joined Mar 2012 · Points: 90

Sand Rock is a great place to take folks who are trying it out. The approach is easy. The routes are easy to find once you get oriented. You can camp there. Yes there are usually other people climbing. Sometimes they are loud. Sometimes they are crazy. Sometimes they are friendly and competent.

I recommend Palisades Park too, but you can't camp there. Trad or easy TR access. 2-minute approach.

Mark O'Neal · · Nicholson, GA · Joined Oct 2009 · Points: 3,323

Won't they be equally confused by all the red necks and trucks with lift kits at Sandrock? :)

I can make it to the Lowers with a full pack in 20 minutes. Surely those guys from FL want to climb a "big mountain"

Crack Slabbath · · Chattanooga · Joined Jan 2013 · Points: 500

UPDATE: Took the guys from Florida up to Yonah to climb a "big mountain." And with the cool temps and winds, it kind of felt like one. Had the parking lot campsite and the cliff to ourselves. They loved the hike and the views. Thanks for the beta, all.

Mark O'Neal · · Nicholson, GA · Joined Oct 2009 · Points: 3,323

I was there on Sat as well. I looked for a car with FL plates but only saw MN and MI. Glad you had a good time, it was rather brisk.

Guideline #1: Don't be a jerk.

Southern States
Post a Reply to "Yonah or Sand Rock?"

Log In to Reply

Join the Community

Create your FREE account today!
Already have an account? Login to close this notice.

Get Started.