Originally a traditional only climbing area, the early 90’s sport climbing revolution transformed the Obed into one of the finest sport climbing areas in the United States. Known for its unrelenting steepness, the Obed is host to the largest collection of horizontal roofs (equipped for your climbing pleasure) anywhere in North America. The rock at the Obed is a very smoothly textured, but well featured version of beautiful Cumberland Sandstone that many climbers describe as nearly perfect.

 

Combine these amazing attributes with one of the friendliest and easy going climber campgrounds to be found – Del’s Lilly Pad – located mere minutes from an assortment of crags, and you have a  playground that should be a mandatory visit for all traveling climbers.

 

 

There are many features to this guidebook that make it great besides just Kelly’s historical perspective and witty descriptions. Knoxville photographer Mark A. Large shot an unbelievable amount of photos for the book and his action photography is featured within. Joining his photos are many others taken by professional photographers Andrew Kornylak, Jim Thornburg, Lynn Willis, Dan Brayack, Chris Brundige, Sean Leeder, and Luke Laeser.