About Snake Den:
| Snake Den is the name of a rock outcropping rising about 150 feet or more along a Forest Road in the Pisgah National Forest. It is a relatively small area hosting a dozen or more traditional single pitch climbs ranging from 5.2 to 5.10. Most are in the mid ranges of 5.4 - 5.7 . Coupled with the ease of access - there is no hike in, one would suspect it would make an excellent beginners climbing area. However, the height of the cliffs precludes easy top roping. The routes must be traditionally led. Two ropes are need for the rappel to the ground. The cliffs sport a handful of bolts, some of dubious quality. The rock is well featured. Most routes can be adequately protected, though some experience with placing anchors will be appreciated. Nonetheless, it's proximity to Asheville and ease of access make it noteworthy. |
| Nearest town or city: | Barnardsville |
| Directions: | From Asheville, go north on I-26 (US 19/23) about 15 minutes to The Barnardsville Exit. Follow 129 to the small town of Barnardsville. Turn right after the Fire Department onto Dillingham Road. The road winds through a rural valley eventually becoming a single lane dirt road as it enters the National Forest. About four miles of gentle climbing will bring you to the cliff faces on your left. The road ends at a trailhead about 1/4 mile further. The cliffs are the border of the Forest Road on the north side. You can almost hit the rock with your car door when you open it. There is limited parking along the road in this narrow area, be sure to leave room for the traffic passing through to the trailhead further on. The road may be gated when it snows. It should be possible to scramble up and down to the top of the rock, but there are a lot of loose stones to fall on anyone below. |
| Latitude, Longitude: | |
| Access Issues: | |
| Camping: | Yes |
| When to Climb: | |
| Quantity of Climbs: | Week |
