Goliath Wall
Not only is Southern Adventist University a stone’s throw away from some of Tennessee’s best climbing sites, but it is also home to the Goliath Wall, located in the heart of the Student Park.
An old abandoned rock quarry, much of the Wall’s face was hidden behind years of accumulated overburden and debris. The Goliath Wall became a reality in 2005 when a generous donation from Gordon and Gerry Chipman, in memory of Gerry’s son, David, allowed the Outdoor Leadership department to begin the project by contracting with a local excavator to remove the overburden from against the wall. It officially opened in 2006.
With over 200 horizontal feet of 40'-60' climbs, as well as plenty of surrounding bouldering opportunities, the Goliath Wall has been bolted for top rope use and boasts many climbing routes ranging from 5.6 to 5.12+, as well as a proposed sport climb traverse. The Goliath Wall serves many purposes. In particular, it is a training wall for the Outdoor Leadership rock climbing and technical rescue rigging classes, as well as for the Hamilton County Cave and Cliff Rescue Team. Of course, it provides plenty of recreational climbing opportunities for students and the community, and is an important part of the campus Dusk Til Dawn Adventure Race. The Goliath Wall also serves as a beautiful limestone backdrop for the large, natural amphitheater created during its excavation, where Southern’s student body can gather for lawn concerts, bonfires, vespers and other events.
There is no charge for recreational climbing. Classes and reserved groups have priority access to the wall; individual climbers are then welcome on a first come, first serve basis. All climbers must sign the Waiver located in the Goliath Wall Kiosk and follow the posted rules. Refer to the Management Plan to view the Rules and download a Waiver. The Wall is managed by the Outdoor Leadership Department. For more information or to reserve the Wall or the amphitheater, contact Wall Manager Michael Hills at 423-236-2785 or 1-800-SOUTHERn.
