After beating Lt. Surge in Pokémon FireRed or LeafGreen, return to Cerulean City, then head east on Route 9 toward Route 10 and Rock Tunnel. You need Cut to clear the small tree on Route 9; Flash makes Rock Tunnel easier to navigate but is not required.
How to reach Rock Tunnel after Lt. Surge
- Make sure you have Cut. You receive HM01 Cut aboard the S.S. Anne in Vermilion City. To use it outside battle, you need Misty’s Cascade Badge.
- Return to Cerulean City. Take the eastern exit onto Route 9 and use Cut on the small tree blocking the way.
- Continue toward Route 10. Follow the path to the Rock Tunnel entrance.
- Go through Rock Tunnel to Lavender Town. From Lavender, the usual next story route heads toward Celadon City by way of the connecting routes and Underground Path.
Do you need Flash for Rock Tunnel?
No. Rock Tunnel is dark, and Flash makes it easier to see and navigate, but it is not mandatory to pass through. Consider getting Flash before entering if you want the cave to be easier to traverse.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
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| 1 |
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Pokemon FireRed Version | $149.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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POKÉMON GO: THE ULTIMATE HUNTER'S GUIDE 2016: Expert Edition: AN UNOFFICIAL PLAYER'S GUIDE | $1.99 | Buy on Amazon |
What about Route 11 and Diglett’s Cave?
Route 11 and Diglett’s Cave are optional side exploration after Lt. Surge. Diglett’s Cave connects back toward Route 2, but this detour does not replace the eastward Route 9 path to Rock Tunnel. Choose it if you want to explore; take Route 9 for the standard next story segment.
Version note
This route applies to Pokémon FireRed and LeafGreen. If you are playing a different Pokémon game, check that game’s map and badge requirements before following these directions.
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- Join up to 39 other wireless Trainers in the Union Room for a free-for-all, or connect with just two or three in the Direct Corner
- Prove yourself in the region's Pokémon League while single-handedly bringing down Team Rocket - then open up all-new storylines with unexpected twists
- Bring the Pokemon you capture in Fire Red to the worlds of Leaf Green, Pokemon Ruby and Sapphire, or Pokemon Colosseum for more challenge
Sources: FireRed and LeafGreen walkthrough; IGN walkthrough; game overview.
Quick Recap
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