In this month’s issue of Blue Ridge Outdoors, guidebook author and North Carolina climbing advocate Mike Reardon relays the December 1966 first ascent of the Nose at Looking Glass, a benchmark achievement in the history of North Carolina climbing. First ascentionists Steve Longenecker, Robert John Gillespie, and Bob Watts met last month for the first time in over a decade to revisit Looking Glass and their landmark ascent. Both humble and charming, the three talked to Blue Ridge Outdoors on camera about their climb, their relationship, and the present-day climbing community in North Carolina.
Join us this Saturday, December 10th from 6—8pm, at Black Dome Mountain Sports for the showing of these interviews. Steve, Robert John, and Bob will all be present and available for a Q&A session. Beer proceeds from Oskar Blues and Wicked Weed, as well as sales from Mike Fischesser’s long-awaited book, “Forbidden Fruit – The History and Exploration of Laurel Knob,” will benefit the Carolina Climbers Coalition. The event also marks the opening of North Carolina’s very own climbing history museum. Attendees are asked to bring gear, topos, or images of climbing relevance from decades past to contribute to the museum.
Stay up-to-date on the event at the Facebook page here. Help us celebrate these living legends and support climbing initiatives in North Carolina for decades to come.
Have questions? Email [email protected] with any inquiries.
