WARNING: Climbing is Potentially Dangerous!

Introduction
Sandrock (AKA Cherokee Rock Village)is located in Northeast Alabama, near the border of Georgia and Tennessee. The sand stone is solid with excellent texture, and affords climbing of every form. You can spend days on boulder problems, top rope, sport, or traditional routes. The access can be little as 100 feet from your car, with more secluded climbing a short hike away. The sandstone offers great friction and texture, but beware the conglomerate rock can shred your hands in no time.
The Sun wall and beyond offers moderate to harder sport routes, with a sunny exposure (hence the name). The maze of caverns, and crevasses create interesting lines and fun hiking. The main area is great for beginner/intermediate top roping, set ups are easy to access and the grades are low to medium. The jaws block offers the classic 5.9 "JAWS", while the opposite side of this block is great for beginners.

Just as any great climbing area, Sand Rock has its share of pitfalls and advantages. The advantages of climbing here are the quality and quantity of rock, easy access, and wide variety of climbing available. Once you visit the crag you may notice the large groups of climbers near the main area. Unfortunately many climbing classes also find the top rope friendly boulders a bonus...This just means you may need to hike a little further or climb the more obscure areas at Sand Rock.

The other unattractive feature of Sand Rock is the amount of trash and graffiti...well it used to be! Thanks to the SCC (Southeastern Climbers Coalition) and Sand Rock Boulders Preservation Society (SRBPS); The place which once held the title of "The Dirtiest Place to Climb in Alabama" has become a much more enjoyable place for hikers, climbers, and families. The SCC and SRBPS together formed clean up days and have taken action against vandalism and trash. In the past it was not uncommon to step over or around garbage to get to the graffiti filled boulders. Sand Rock still remains as one of my favorite places to visit, the weather is usually cooperative, the locals friendly, and the climbs are challenging. Remember this is a dry county and any alcohol could get you a sizable ticket or get you a special tour of the local slammer.
During my visits to Sand Rock I have only witness a few jack asses. Unfortunately it was during my first visit so they made a lasting impression. One thing I can say is be aware of hunting season! I personally witnessed hunters running around on ATV's and shooting small game, very very close to me!, I have also had a rope bag stolen from under the rope sitting on it ??? Just a reminder that you should keep an eye on your gear no matter where you are.

Lead (Sport & Trad):
Full Rack
Various sized slings
10-12 Quick draws
60m Rope
Rope bag

Directions
Regulations
Bouldering
Amenities

Sorry Chris's book is now out of print...But he is working on publishing 3 new books to replace this one guidebook. Look for the new books divided up by State Mid-late summer. If you can find a copy of this book, snatch it up...a great resource for souther climbing.