Climb
​Located just off the Burnett Ridge Trail in the Ross Marble Area, the Ijams Crag offers outdoor climbing opportunities for both beginner and experienced climbers. The site features a cliff line with moderate grades, solid rock, and reliable access, and is close to downtown Knoxville.
Climb at the Ijams Crag
The Ijams Crag features more than 30 routes with bolted routes and bolted anchors. Routes range in height from 30 to 60 feet and from 5.6 to 5.13 in difficulty. Climbers should use their own gear to top-rope routes, and only use fixed gear on anchors to lower off of routes.
SPECIAL NOTICE
Climbers using the Ijams Crag must sign waiver forms prior to climbing. Waivers are located at the Crag kiosk or print the waiver and drop the signed form at the kiosk when you go climb.
SAFETY
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This is a climb-at-your-own-risk area. Obtain proper training and guidance before climbing. Rock climbing and associated activities such as rappelling are inherently dangerous. You alone are responsible for your safety. Substantial risk of injury and death exist.
Permission to climb at Ijams is conditioned upon your assumption of all risk of injury to person and property. Climbing risks include but are not limited to: falling; collisions with both man-made and natural objects; falling rocks, ice, and other debris; failure of equipment or anchors; adverse weather; human error; slippery surfaces; and negligence of others.
HISTORY
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The Ijams Crag was created by some of Knoxville’s most experienced climbers including Benjy Darnell, Kelly Brown, Robert Blackwell, Sam Adams, and Charlie VanAnda.
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A cadre of volunteers helped build and now maintain the existing climbing routes while working to complete the remaining routes. Ijams staff support their work by maintaining and improving the areas surrounding the Crag.
This outdoor experience would not be possible without the support of River Sports Outfitters, Patagonia, Lowes, Nick Pavlis (former Knoxville City Council member), and the City of Knoxville.
DIRECTIONS
From Ijams Visitor Center on Island Home Ave.:
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Turn left on Gilbert Ln. (opposite Island Home Baptist Church)
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Turn left on Belvedere Ave.
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Turn right on Aberdeen Ln. and continue right at the fork on Aberdeen.
There is limited parking at this entrance. Another option is to park at Mead’s Quarry and hike Imerys Trail to Burnett Ridge Trail (about one mile).
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Find the Ijams Crag on Google Maps
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WAYS TO HELP
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CARPOOL. Parking is limited at the closest Crag entrance.
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DRIVE SLOWLY. The entrance to the Crag is in a residential area with families and children. Driving responsibly helps maintain good relationships with the neighbors.
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BE GOOD STEWARDS. Respect other users, the environment, and your neighbors. Observe the Access Fund Climber's Pact.
Photos by Paul Efird