Famous American Bouldering Area Saved After 30 Years
Climbers have been fighting to have access to Howard Knob since the 1990s
After three decades of effort, the Blue Ridge Conservancy has secured 73 acres on the north and east slopes of Howard Knob, the prominent peak overlooking Boone, North Carolina. The acquisition connects directly to a five-acre Watauga County park, positioning the land for permanent conservation and future public access, including hiking and rock climbing.
Howard Knob has long been a focus of local conservation efforts. In the 1990s, Appalachian State students and community advocates sought to protect the area to prevent development and preserve access to its climbing boulders and natural spaces. Although that early campaign fell short, it led to the creation of the Watauga High Country Land Trust, which later merged into today’s Blue Ridge Conservancy. The new purchase fulfills the original goal of safeguarding the mountain’s remaining unprotected acres.
“Saving Howard Knob has been a top priority from day one,” said Eric Hiegl, the Conservancy’s senior director. “Land conservation unfolds on its own time, and luckily, the moment to save Howard Knob is now.” The Conservancy plans to manage the property for both ecological protection and responsible recreation.
Visitors can expect moderately graded trails with rocky, uneven terrain; sturdy footwear is recommended. The site’s exposure makes cooler morning or shoulder-season visits preferable. Climbers will find newly protected boulders offering varied routes, though seasonal closures may apply to protect wildlife. The expansion adds significant outdoor access while ensuring the mountain’s natural character endures.
This isn’t the only climbing in North Carolina to be saved and reopened this season, as the famous Lower Ghost Town was recently purchased by climbers, read about it here. And for more information on Howard Knob visit the Access Fund here.
Access groups have played a central role in protecting climbing resources throughout the region and nationwide. These volunteer-led organizations work to secure legal, sustainable access to climbing areas, educate visitors on low-impact practices, and collaborate with landowners and public agencies to balance recreation with conservation. Their efforts help ensure that climbing sites remain open, safe, and environmentally sound, an increasingly important mission as participation in the sport grows.
