About This Route
The Wall at Ober Gatlinburg challenges experts with a 3,000-foot black diamond plunge, 35% pitch dropping 700 vertical feet through steeps and moguls. Accessed from the summit quad, it tests advanced technique with Smoky views toward Cades Cove. Ungroomed sections build natural terrain; prime after 24-inch dumps in February, but closes in thin cover.
Safety Considerations
Pole plant precisely on ice-glazed steeps from elevation freezes; yield uphill per NSAA. Moguls hide rocks from underlying Smoky geology; scout lines. Extreme winds exceed 40 mph; postpone in gales. No backcountry extensions; stay bounds to avoid NPS fines. Train with PSIA progressions; fatigue kills control late-day.
Essential Gear
Full-body armor from Dainese, AT skis from Black Crows for variable snow, Black Diamond probes. SPOT beacon for signal.