After a 25-year effort, the Asheville-based Carolina Climbers Coalition (CCC) has made its largest land acquisition to date — securing Lower Ghost Town, a renowned climbing area across from Chimney Rock State Park. The purchase allows public access to the 17-acre tract, which has more than 50 established routes.
The site became popular with climbers in the ‘70s, when it was home to the Western ghost town-themed amusement park, Silver City. It remained a revered spot until developers bought the property in the early 2000s.
With help from partners including Access Fund, the Village of Chimney Rock, and the NC State Trails Program, the acquisition goes beyond climbing, connecting a key section of the extensive Hickory Nut Gorge State Trail network.
The outdoor recreation opportunities are expected to aid the local economy as the region continues to recover from Helene.
Access to the area will be limited to volunteers while trails undergo construction. The CCC hopes to open Lower Ghost Town to the public for climbing in the spring.
