Tucked at the foot of Lookout Mountain, just a stone’s throw from Chattanooga’s St. Elmo neighborhood, a climbing oasis that combines adventure with environmental stewardship awaits you. The St. Elmo Boulders—more commonly known as the Wauhatchie Boulders —have been transformed from a forgotten, overgrown patch of land into one of the city’s best-kept climbing secrets.
From first-timers to experienced climbers, a boulder garden for all
What started as just five boulders in 2017 has quickly grown into 28 impressive boulders, offering a range of routes and problems for all skill levels. Today, the Wauhatchie Boulders have something for everyone—from beginner-friendly routes to more challenging advanced problems. Whether you're tackling Dino with its sloping shelf and loaf top-out or testing your skills on the overhangs and crimps of The Cliffhanger, there’s always a new challenge waiting.
Another standout is Luna, which features a dramatic overhang and clean, straight-up lines. The Moon Beam V4 on Luna is a crowd favorite, combining powerful moves with precision footwork, and it's perfect for climbers looking to push their limits.
The boulders are open 24/7, making it ideal for a sunset send or an early morning session. Whether you're fitting in on a quick climb after work, spending a day outdoors with friends, or simply looking for a fresh, accessible challenge, the Wauhatchie Boulders have something for everyone.
So, chalk up, grab your shoes, and make your way to one of Chattanooga’s best-kept climbing secrets —you won’t be disappointed.
The History of the Wauhatchie Boulders: From Hidden Gem to Community Treasure
The Wauhatchie Boulders were a hidden and overrun area for many local climbers until 2017 when Robyn Carlton, CEO of Lookout Mountain Conservancy, noticed the growing number of chalk marks on the rocks. Curious, she asked her interns about it and discovered that climbers had been using the area for bouldering. Realizing the spot was already being used for outdoor recreation but lacked formal preservation, Robyn saw an opportunity to step in and protect it.
In response, Robyn connected with The Access Fund, the Southeastern Climbers Coalition, and local volunteers, including The Howard School interns, to clean up the area. Invasive plants and trash were removed, durable surfaces were added to the base of the boulders, and the site was made more accessible. Beyond climbing, the area also became more welcoming for hiking and biking, offering a multi-use outdoor space for the community.
The community effort has since become a shining example of how a shared commitment to conservation can transform a space. By bringing together local organizations, schools, and volunteers, the Wauhatchie Boulders were preserved for future generations to enjoy—demonstrating the lasting impact of working together to protect nature.
Know Before You Go
If you're planning to visit, Lookout Mountain Conservancy offers a free, downloadable map on their website that includes the boulders and their routes. It's a great resource to navigate the area, and while the map is free, donations are encouraged to support the continued preservation of the site. It’s also recommended to bring your own climbing shoes, chalk, and bouldering pads. There’s a designated lot for parking at this address. You can find the guide here.