A powerhouse in the climbing training world, Arno Ilgner is a Nashville local whose longstanding relationship with the sport has led him through a lifetime of enjoyment.
“I was disillusioned with the music I was studying in high school. That got me engaged with a couple guys that were experimenting with climbing at the local dirty limestone crag. I joined them and loved it. I never turned back.”
As with many climbers, a chance encounter with the sport offered a new perspective. What started as a random day out in the woods turned into something much more.
“It’s been the thread that’s held my life together. When I feel lost, climbing always makes me feel found. It’s also given me a way to engage my body and mind to make me feel more alive.” 
While he can often be found running workshops and clinics focused on mental training around the Nashville area, Arno cites the Obed as his favorite southeastern crag. It’s not hard to see why; the towering sport routes and wilderness appeal require mental fortitude in spades.
When asked about the SCC, Arno admits it changed his outlook on the relational aspects of land management.
“I used to approach climbing areas with the mentality of ‘better to ask for forgiveness than permission.’ The SCC taught me that it’s better to ask for permission first. That respects them and creates long-term collaborative relationships.”
We’re proud to encourage climbers like Arno to look after the outdoor areas we love. And in his words, the most important climbs might not be on the rock at all.
“My favorite climb is the one I’m on. Right now, my favorite climb is answering these questions :)”
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While volunteering, donating your time, and becoming an SCC Member are all important ways to support climbing access, Arno understands that stewardship goes beyond the trails—it’s about caring for and respecting the land that makes our climbing possible.
Become an SCC Member and/or sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on best practices, closures, Leave No Trace policies, volunteer opportunities, and more ways to help protect the places we love to climb.