By Jessica
What better source to find adventures than National Geographic. I recently posted my Top 1o Georgia Adventures but here’s something for everyone. National Geographic lists the following Top 10 Best American Adventures:
1. Biking the Continental Divide Trail: Multistate
2. Kayaking Lake Yellowstone: Wyoming
3. Rowing Down the Grand Canyon: Arizona
4. Climbing Mount Rainier: Washington
5. Canoeing the Adirondacks: New York
6. Exploring ANWR: Alaska
7. Biking RAGBRAI: Iowa
8. Surfing the Lost Coast: California
9. Hiking the Sierra High Route: California 10. Wreck Diving Lake Superior: Minnesota
For more info on each adventure, read the entire article on the Top 50 Best American Adventures.
By Jessica
Rocktown, nestled in Pigeon Mountain near Chattanooga, Tennessee, offers countless opportunities to climb on rocks. From beginner scramblers to experienced climbers, Rocktown has something for everyone! Boulders abound and some larger rocks already have bolts mounted. (You must contact the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to install new bolts.) Camping is not allowed IN Rocktown, but there are plenty of great campsites location just outside it.
Head to Lafayette, Georgia, and take Highway 193. Turn left on Chamberlain Road (Jed’s something gas station will be on your right). After a few miles, turn right on Rocky Lane (you will see a sign before the turn for a wildlife area). Follow this road up to the top of Pigeon Mountain. You will pass many campsites along the way. A the fork, turn right. Follow the dirt road until you see a turn off to the left. Take this road to the trailhead. The Rocktown Trail is a mile long and a flat, easy hike. How will you know when you hit Rocktown?
The ROCKS!
You will soon find yourself winding through tall boulders and rock formations. And the temptation to climb the rocks will surpass your need to follow the trail. Many boulders are easy enough to scramble up but also offer hard climbs for those looking for a challenge.
Rocktown is dog friendly and kid friendly. Be sure to bring a lunch and a camera. The formations offer great picnic spots and picturesque views! Plan to spend at least 2 to 3 hours at Rocktown, although I suggest planning a longer (even overnight) trip. You could spend days at Rocktown without getting to explore it all.
Pigeon Mountain is also home to Pettijohn’s Cave. Check out Pigeon Mountain’s trail map.
A Word About Safety
- Plan to do more serious bouldering? Bring a helmet and mat.
- Want to get in some rock climbing? Bring your helmet, rope, and harness. Be sure you have training before tackling the tougher climbs. There are no trainers at Rocktown … it’s climb at your own risk.
