31: Resurrecting Ghost Town with Mike Reardon & the CCC

For decades, Ghost Town stood as one of North Carolina’s most legendary—and inaccessible—cliffs. First climbed in the 1970s and closed for nearly 20 years, its towering crack systems and dramatic position above Hickory Nut Gorge became the stuff of local lore. In this episode, we sit down with the Carolina Climbers Coalition Executive Director, Mike Reardon, to unpack the long journey to bring Ghost Town back to life. Mike shares the behind-the-scenes story of land access, conservation, and the effort to reopen this historic crag to the climbing community. We explore Ghost Town’s rich history, its untapped potential, and what it means to be part of a climbing area’s rebirth—from forgotten first ascents to brand new routes waiting to be discovered. - Follow the CCC on Instagram: @carolinaclimberscoalition Join the Effort - Donate to help ensure Lower Ghost Town stays open. All donations $150 or more will receive an exclusive Ghost Town T-Shirt! Become a member of the CCC to support access to climbing areas all around the Carolinas like Ghost Town!  Stay up to date with the latest trail days for Ghost Town! Sign up for the Rumble, a premier boulder and ropes competition put on by the CCC Learn more about the CCC's recent acquisition of Ghost Town! - Get access to exclusive and ad-free content by becoming a Patreon  Follow along on Instagram: @listentogroundup  Check out our new website: https://www.thegrounduppodcast.com/ Sign up for the Mailing List!