Doug Reed - Legends from the Steep

Doug Reed certainly needs no introduction in the Southeast climbing community. With an almost unfathomable 600+ first ascents (yes you read that correctly), across North Carolina, the New River Gorge and Little River Canyon, Doug is often described as a living legend and larger than life character by his peers.

But don't just take my word for it! Listen to episode 14 of the Ground Up Podcast to hear Doug's first hand account of what it took to become arguably one of the most prolific route developers of his generation, the outrageous and bold adventures that came with the territory, his extended hiatus from climbing and what ultimately brought him back to the sharp end of the rope.

Check it out on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5XqGGHmpIzPBTeWC9XtnfO?si=tFEoR36rRdWAiWGYUlEjoA

I met him at Rat Rock in NYC in the late 80s.  He seemed cool and friendly even though he was already a legend.  Apollo Reed indeed.

This is awesome! NRG is truly God’s own rock, and great honour to hear from one of the biggest first ascensionists there!

Stoked Weekend Warrior wrote:

This is awesome! NRG is truly God’s own rock, and great honour to hear from one of the biggest first ascensionists there!

It truly does not get much better than the Nuttall Sandstone at the NRG!

I met Doug once with his son at rumbling bald a few years ago having just come down from the New and having no idea who I was speaking to. I mentioned where I had just been and he said something like “oh yeah I did some first ascents there” and I was like “oh cool which?” He said “most of them.” https://vidmate.onl/