Land Manager: Southeastern Climbers Coalition

Native Lands: Shawandasse Tula (Shawanwaki/Shawnee), S’atsoyaha (Yuchi) (from Native-lands.ca)

Area Rep: Sammy Raviv, fpellc@gmail.com

SCC purchased Steele in 2009 for $55,000, after having been closed to climbing since 1987. Climbing at Steele dates back to the 1970’s and is predominantly traditional climbing, with some sport routes mixed in. Climbers will find a composting toilet located at the corner of the parking lot, thanks to grants from American Alpine Club and Access Fund. The SCC portion of Steele is surrounded by privately owned cliff, so please stay on SCC property and do not trespass onto private property. Clear boundary signs are located at each end of the cliff.

Directions

Google Maps

Follow the shared driveway to the fork, and stay to the right where you will come to a chain across the road and a SCC sign. Unhook the chain and proceed up the driveway to the parking lot. Please be sure to hang the chain back up behind you.

What to Expect

Steele is comprised of over one mile of 80 to 100 foot tall sandstone climbing. Early pioneers and first ascentionists included Mark Cole, Rob Robinson, Gene Smith, Maurice Reed, Curt Merchant, Les Hutchinson, James Guidry, Ken Pitts, Mack McNease, Dean Elliot, Jamie Silliman and others. According to early climbers, many new routes were put up between 1984 and 1986. A second generation of climbers added new energy and lines to include Bernard Wolfe, Adam Henry, David Hemphill, Sammy Raviv, Gus Fontenot and others. Today the area boasts many superb lines and a large concentration of 2 and 3 star routes with nearly 50 on the SCC property.

Access is offered in accordance with the Alabama Recreational Use Statute (Alabama Code 35-15-1 et seq.).  If you choose to enter this area you are voluntarily choosing to assume all risk of personal injury and/or property loss. Numerous hazards exist on the property, some of which may not be obvious or apparent. These hazards include, but not limited to: steep open cliffs; slippery surfaces; steep and natural walkways, trails, and roadways; loose unstable rocks; falling objects; the possible failure of fixed climbing anchors; and the conduct of other users.

Access notes

  • Be a good neighbor: Please make a good impression by driving slowly, smiling and being respectful to our neighbors.
  • This also includes No Trespassing. Unfortunately, the SCC did not have the opportunity to purchase the entire cliff. If you see ‘End SCC Property” signs you are leaving SCC property and are subject to trespassing law.
  • Dogs: Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
  • Leave No Trace: Keep this area beautiful and clean. Clean up after yourselves, your peers, and your pets. Lead by example and pick it up on the first pass.
  • No Fires
  • The crag closes at dusk. Out of respect for our neighbors, keep noise to a minimum please do not linger in the parking area. 

Camping

No camping at Steele. Horse Pens 40 is a quick ten-minute drive up the mountain.

Guidebook

Steele can be found in the Dixie Cragger’s Atlas
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