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Little Bearwallow Falls (Gerton Ice)

Land Manager: Conserving Carolina

Area rep: Mike Reardon mreardon@carolinaclimbers.org

Guides and Info: Little Bearwallow Rock & Ice guide

Thanks to our friends and partners at Conserving Carolina and the vision and generosity of John and Jane Myers, the Gerton ice climbs are officially open now and forever! You can read more about the effort to protect and open this area in the Asheville Citizen Times.

What to expect

Little Bearwallow Falls is a small crag and waterfall. The orientation, elevation and reliable seep makes for one of the more longer lasting ice flows in NC in appropriate weather. There are also a handful of moderate climbs located on the rock band adjacent to the falls. 

Directions

The area is accessed via the newly constructed Wildcat Rock (Little Bearwallow Mountain) Trail, located in Gerton, NC. Directions can be found on the Conserving Carolina website. GPS users may enter N35.4734, W-82.3320 to find the trailhead.

Access notes

  • Placement of new fixed anchors must be approved by Conserving Carolina
  • No commercial guiding
  • Climbing groups over 6 people are highly discouraged
  • Be respectful of the other trail visitors and the area
  • Be careful with vegetation and animals in the area and avoid topping out to reduce impacts to sensitive species