Nelson Rocks Preserve is located at the first dirt road south of Judy Gap (the intersection of WV 28 and US 33, where US 33 arrives from the east). And I wondered to myself how exactly I had been talked into this. Thinking a lot about Zion this time of year. The darker colored rocks on Angels Landing start to get quite hot around the noon hour during the summer months. As we rested at the foot of the bridge, a group of West Virginia State Police troopers came up behind us. The Via Ferrata runs up, over, and through the two rock fins, which jut out from a rounded, tree-covered hillside. Most of us did not have good cell phone service at all in the area. NROCKS provides top quality equipment from CMI for all activities! There is a very tiny sign marking the turn, but you'd never see it if you weren't looking for it. If you are intensely scared of heights, this might not be the best activity for you. At the Nelson Rocks Outdoor Center, the 1750 feet of -inch aircraft-grade stainless-steel cable (tensile strength: 11,800 pounds), the 115 stainless-steel rungs, and the 145 iron bolt hangers. The Via Ferrata found at NRocks was the second to be introduced in the United States, and it is one of only three currently in the country. Almost anyone! One of the friends has returned with his parents to climb Nelson Rocks again since the first climb. If you blink, youll miss the one tiny sign pointing up the dirt road that leads to the preserve, off WV Route 55 near Judy Gap. The age limit is 13 years old. We regularly welcome visitors from Virginia, Ohio, Maryland, North Carolina and Washington, DC. While Nelson Rocks is best known for rock climbing, this is not the only activity to enjoy. Visitors from the Northeast region and around the world enjoy adventure vacations at NROCKS. There was an really nice diner in town that we went to before heading out. Vincent Everett - Riding Coach with Vincent Everett Privately owned by NROCKS, the Via Ferrata at Nelson Rocks is a climbing and traversing adventure using steel rungs and cables to move up the rock face rather than climbing on the rock. He wasnt crying, but he was quivering. It can be can downright terrifying at times, but for me, those moments of fear are drowned out by the overarching feeling of completing the route. The Nelson Rocks and some of the surrounding areas (including Seneca Rocks) was originally used by the US Army (the 10th Mountain Division) as preparation for fighting mountain assault troops in Italy. I do enjoy to read this kind real life experience. North Fork Valley Canopy Tour, High Flying Adventure!! Have to give it a try some time when Im looking for something crazy! It was really cool, and I would definitely do it again! At the end of the bridge, another climb awaited. Join the ADB Community! Heights don't really bother me. Climbing a Via Ferrata in West Virginia is a ropes and rocks course on steroids. Nelson Rocks - Wikipedia > Nelson Rocks Via Ferrata A mountain jungle gym connects two majestic quartzite fins in West Virginia's North Fork Valley. The only restroom fulfills the stereotypical assumption many visitors will likely make before arriving in West Virginia. Under perfect conditions, he traversed the entire Via in just 15 minutes. There are plenty of great places to catch a spectacular desert sunset in Joshua Tree National Park. While these are very popular in Europe, especially in I Chasing. This is insane and I cant wait to go! Via Ferrata is a protected trail or climbing route used in the mountains to make passage easier and more secure. Initially designed and built to transport troops in Italy during World War 1, Via Ferratas have now become a recreational activity for outdoor enthusiasts. You should expect the journey to take four hours or more. Please do not wear sandals of any kind or crocs. In order to do this you must sign up for a guided tour at NRocks. Each 6-foot interval at this via ferrata, you reach an eyebolt, detaching one carabiner from the cable and clipping it above the eyebolt and then the next, keeping you securely by the rocks. With via ferrata, you are responsible for yourself to ensure that you stay safe in many cases. I brought a box of granola bars with me, which was helpful for helping me find the extra energy to climb. Bryan Williams, the operations manager of N Rocks Outdoor Adventures, describes the Via Ferrata as a unique style of rock climbing that bridges the gaps between rock climbing and hiking. The view from the end of the bridge, looking back after crossing it. Its a system that is said to be safe for people who have no prior climbing training. After the troopers crossed, it was our turn. Ive done via ferratas/klettersteige in five countries now. This route does not use rope (unlike normal rock climbing). During the climb, visitors gain 1085 feet in elevation, cross a large suspension bridge, and be rewarded with stunning views. This part was the most exhilarating and terrifying bit for me. I bought this after my first via ferrata. Amanda Joy Crawford / North Versailles native, victim in rock-climbing Driving along US33 is a stunning drive as youll see many of these formations from the road. Unforeseen circumstances are just that. . A fifth cable runs overhead, which allowed us to clip in. (Source: From an article by Lauren McKay), (Editors Note: There may be more than two via ferratas in the U.S. World's longest pedestrian suspension bridge opens in Portugal. Would I was also climbing with an inner ear infection, and I have had cortisone shots in my right shoulder.so I intend to go back and try this again when feeling better! I dont write the death at Nelson Rocks as a way of scaring you, but a way of reminding you that you must remain attached to the cable, follow conventional safety advice, and to listen to the instructions of your guide. My arms were growing weak, and the sweat on my hands was loosening my grip. Gnarliest thing I've done on the eastern half of the states. NROCKS offers Via Ferrata tours, the North Fork Valley Canopy Tour, and guided rock climbing and caving tours. 91 Baker Street Nelson BC Phone: (250) 352-3433 Toll Free: 1-877-663-5706. Really appreciate all the details youve shared, thanks! Tackle This Via Ferrata Bridge Suspended Between Nelson Rocks In West Nelson Rocks says that climbers need to have "some physical ability.". Your email address will not be published. Your videos and photographs inspires us give it a try amazing scenery! No matter what your group size, we assure fun outdoor adventure for everyone! He can be reached on Instagram at aaronspray, Climbing on the NROCKS via ferrata in West Virginia, Planning A Visit To Nelson Rocks And Via Ferrata, The Greenbrier has been frequented by around half of the US presidents, then try out Colorado's new Via Feratta, which is perfect for those not afraid of heights, Travel In The Balkans: A Stunning Via Ferrata Launched In Kosovo And Promises To Take Your Breath Away, The Telluride Via Ferrata Is For Experienced Climbers Only, And This Is Why. [] view is amazing and the clouds are scudding on by. I HIGHLY recommend it! Our sister company, The Outdoor Learning Center specializes in both with groups of all shapes and sizes. At least if it failed you'd die an instantaneous death too, which is frankly one of the best things we can ask for in life..right? A Via Ferrata is Italian for "iron path" and is a climbing route that includes steel cables, rungs or ladders, fixed to a rock. Steel cables, handles, and ladder rungs are installed in places where the trail steepens. Youd have to be crazy to trust your life to a little metal clip hammered into the side of a mountain. While our safety record speaks for itself, the Via Ferrata is only as safe as the climbers on the route. Introductory Guide to Via Ferrata: What to know before your first via West Virginia State Police say Amanda Joy Crawford was climbing a via ferrata (iron way) at the Nelson Rocks Preserve in Pendleton County when she unhooked one of her lines to go around a tree, mis-stepped, and fell almost 150 feet. 10 Awesome Things to Do in New River Gorge National Park. (You can read more about via ferrata here.). The Via Ferrata is open by appointment only. The naturally-occurring route has been there forever; the rungs and cables merely make it easier to navigate it. (There were also safety waivers involved, though we filled those out before leaving home.). These allow people to ascend and descend the over one thousand feet of rock surface without the need for technical knowledge or climbing gear. Id recommend trying out conventional rock climbing at a gym first as the adrenaline as well as the drop at Nelson Rocks (especially after the first turn onto the fin) can make your fear worse if youve never really challenged your fear of heights before. The via ferrata in Telluride, also known as the "Krogerata," was the brain child of renowned climber and local builder, Chuck Kroger. Flexible because you can choose from 2 to 10 days of via ferrata trekking. West Virginia has some of the most stunning landscapes of the Appalachians and has drawn tourists since the early days of the United States (The Greenbrier has been frequented by around half of the US presidents). Wild Caving is a partnership between NROCKS and WILDGUYde Adventures. Established in 2002. Hes been living the life of a pioneer for several years now at Nelson Rocks, in a cabin that doesnt have an electric light or a flushing toilet. YES! That brief climb was followed by passage through another notch. The course IS physically demanding. Please plan to arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Specialties: NROCKS Outdoor Adventures is the premiere guided climbing center in West Virginia and the North Fork Valley Region. One last short hike took us up to a lookout point above both fins, which made our achievement seem even more impressive. Try to hike before noon if possible. At the top of the narrow rock knife is an unobstructed view of the entire area. Elliot definitely has that healthy fear. Going down is tougher, I learned, because instead of fighting against gravity, youre moving with it, while trying not to move too fast. NRocks Via Ferrata: Rock Climbing Adventure - TakeMyTrip.com Come out, strap in, and hang on for a wild ride. Check out this 2.2-mile loop trail near Circleville, West Virginia. We signed our indemnity forms first. You must be 13+ as well as in good physical condition to climb. Yes, I personally wouldnt want to do this in the winter, but Im sure there are plenty of crazy people who do it then! Via Ferrata, Nelson Rocks Preserve OK, this is not technically a true "rock climb," since you're not actually gripping the cliff to make upward progress. The Preserve is . Steel cables, metal rungs and a hanging bridge are combined to add safety and ease to your climbing here. Rock Climbing the Iron Way: Via Ferrata Comes to the USA Lodging is limited in the area. We were approaching hour number five. With my oldest daughter all packed up, we made a detour to West Virginia before she headed off to college in Boston for a side trip to West Virginia. NROCKS Outdoor Adventures (formerly Nelson Rocks Adventure Center) is the premiere guided climbing center in West Virginia and the North Fork Valley Region. Look at our package deals to combine activities and lodging. Indiana Dunes National Park: Worth the drive from Chicago? At this point, unguided climbing is prohibited on the property and all climbing is regulated by the company that owns the property. Leave your cell phone in the car theres no coverage here. *taxes not included in pricing. Youll gear up, and get taught how to use the 2 carabiner lanyard which allows climbers to be clipped into the safety cable at all times. They were using the Via to train for rescue operations. It was certainly one of the biggest physical challenges of the day, but the reward was great. At the shed, I paid the $45 fee for climbing the Via, received my safety equipment, and met my climbing partners. Doesn't seem nearly as sketchy as the bridge you have to cross at the Nelson Rocks Via Ferrata in West . For the first stage of the climb, we went up and to the left, working our way to a notch in the first fin. Nelson Rocks Climbing Access: Access to the Nelson Rocks climbing area is private. This is the view looking uphill, between the two rock fins. The Nelson Rocks via ferrata provides your equipment, including the helmut, the harness, and the via ferrata set. AVA built another hybrid via ferrata/adventure course just outside of Buena Vista that opened in summer 2018. That said, the view from the top was incredible. We recommend the following items: You can bring a GoPro or camera and we can provide a helmet with a GoPro mount on it. We appreciate and understand the desire and preference of using your own gear if you have it, but in order to comply with our insurance policy, we require everyone who comes to experience the Via Ferrata at NROCKS to use the gear that is supplied by staff. Bring your camera so that you can snap some photos of the West Virginia landscape; its one of a kind! Nelson Rocks is a longer via ferrata located in West Virginia that is 4ish hours. From this one, you can see Spruce Knob, the tallest point in West Virginia. There are a couple more good viewpoints near the upper end of the Via. The nearest cold beverages and modern restrooms are at a convenience store in Circleville, 2 miles south. We spoke with an Eastern Mennonite University professor who is familiar with via ferratas. Via Ferrata : SummitPost.org : Climbing, hiking, mountaineering. Luckily, theres a good place to rest and have a bite to eat there while you watch others going across the bridge. How long: Most groups take between 3.5 and 5 hours to complete the course (it took our group 4 hours). I took up climbing somewhat recently and would love to go climbing in WV! We climbed horizontally along the wall until we reached the point where the bridge is. Climbers are connected to steel cables while using the steel rungs and/or rock face to traverse, ascend, or descend the route. There is a very tiny sign marking the turn, but youd never see it if you werent looking for it. I did both the Canopy Tour and Via Ferrata at Nelson Rocks on back to back days. These extraordinary views will leave your jaw on the floor - MSN Aaron is a first-hand traveler who has visited more than 80 countries around the world. Via Ferrata - Nelson Rocks, WV - YouTube Which is probably why when I saw video of this particular activity, my first and only thought was, That. As a big fan of climbing, my husband and I have done a number of via ferratas in different countries, but I still often think back on one of my first via ferratas in the United States. It is a nice change of pace that gives climbers a chance to leave their rope and rack in the car and climb nonstop for a couple of hours without stopping to belay. "Via ferrata" is an Italian phrase that translates to "iron road" or "the iron way," and describes a climbing route in the mountains that melds hiking with rock climbing. Participants are secured to the rock by wearing a special harness that attaches to the steel cable. To zip you must weigh between 70 and 250 pounds. Established in 2002. These fins are part of the Allegheny mountain range, which are part of the Appalachian Mountains. This makes it much easier to climb . . Although they can accomodate people walking in, Id recommend making a reservation to ensure that you can climb. They had always wanted to spend a few days hiking, climbing, and rafting through the Mountain State on their way to the Sunshine State, and now they were finally doing it. Via Ferrata in the Dolomites: the best via ferrata treks . N Rocks offers a wide range of climbing experiences including the Via Ferrata, a bridge suspended 150 feet in the air that spans the two fans of Nelson Rocks. After reaching the top, take the time to gaze out and soak in the views of Spruce Knob in the distance. Read the full disclosure policy. **To climb the Via Ferrata at NROCKS you must be at least 13 years old. Unfortunately with many via ferratas, many people can underestimate their fear of heights and turning back can be more difficult than you think it might be depending on the route. What to know about climbing the Nelson Rocks via ferrata in West Virginia A Dangerous Business is a participant in several affiliate programs. From the Daily News-Record: Crawford was attached to a guide wire by a safety harness and two safety carabineers, where at least one carabineer was to be attached to the guide wire at all times, Ware reported. NROCKS offers Via Ferrata tours, the North Fork Valley Canopy Tour, and guided rock climbing and caving tours. A . What to bring: You don't need to bring any climbing gear, as a harness and helmet will be provided. NOT QUITE THE SAME THING single use material - keeping with the wishes - please press start. A great place to really get out and get some fresh air rock climbing in is the Nelson Rocks Via Ferrata. Nelson Rocks features the Via Ferrata - Italian for "Iron Road." The Via Ferrata contains metal rungs that stick out of the rocks along with cables to hook into as you climb. because each plank is spaced 18 inches apart (to decrease wind resistance and weight, Brian told us adding to the thrill was merely a bonus). While they are not for everyone, they are a great option to combine hiking with rock climbing. Via Ferrata - nrocks.com Haha. EXTREME VIA FERRATA IN WEST VIRGINIA | NELSON ROCKS - YouTube First, youll scale the wall that will bring up up the fin. Via Ferrata Dolomites: customised hut to hut treks in the Central Dolomites. It's probably one of the most unique activities I've done while traveling in the US. Okay, that looks like both crazy fun and just plain crazy. All Rights Reserved, Some posts on this site contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission. Reservations, policies, discounts and specials. Does this via ferrata look crazy fun, or just plain crazy to you? Send me updates and special offers from NROCKS! Those colors are so beautiful! A typical via ferrata route is comprised of a series of steel cables, metal rungs, ladders, bridges, steps, and other fixtures. Im 41 and athletic, and I did find it challenging. Constructed by a world-class team of climbers, guides, engineers, and rigging professionals, the route winds its way through the incomparable Uncompahgre Gorge. Those rock fins that protrude from the side of the mountain are part of NRocks (a.k.a. From 2017. He managed to get through the course, but he said that he was done climbing for good. Staff/Guides were outstanding, very safety conscious and had a great sense of humor. The Via officially ended at the top of the hill. 1. Must be 13 years of age or older and have prior experience on the Via Ferrata at NROCKS Outdoor Adventures, *taxes not included in pricing. Required fields are marked *. This is from last week. Nelson Rocks Via Ferrata: West Virginia - Breezy Days Ahead . AWESOME.. NROCKS now operates the via ferrata, their expert adventure guides taking willing participants up and over two of those imposing fins of rock a couple times per day. Now, though, they are mostly used for recreation. Back at the parking lot, we removed our equipment and praised Brians guidance, while Bonnie and Jeanne worked up the courage to visit the outhouse. Wonderful exact and informative review. Yes, it is an outhouse. Lets start out with a picture taken from a few miles away, atop Spruce Knob, to give you a lay of the land. Our guide, Brian, greeted us. Read the sites full Privacy / Disclosure policy here. The guides are really great with helping you through the course! The town where A Christmas Story was born. I decided to skip this one since Bryan was honest and said it would probably be hard for me at my shorter height. #1 - Nelson Rocks Via Ferrata Circleville, West Virginia Length: 2.2 mi This is a guided rock climbing tour on private property. You need to be attached to the rope at all times and you want to ensure both clips are attached to the cable for your own safety. All you need for this day on the rocks is some physical ability, an appreciation of the outdoors, and of course a desire to have a great day outside! There are usually a couple different tour times to choose from each day. The Via Ferrata trail is 3.5 kilometers, 2.2 miles long loop trail. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats. Im just a small-town Ohio girl trying to balance a normal life with a desire to discover the world beyond my Midwest bubble. Hard 5 (73) Circleville, West Virginia. The Via Ferrata at NROCKS is a one of a kind adventure experience, offering a mile of fixed-anchor, professionally-guided rock climbing. We climbed up the second fin, and then reached an optional extra climb. If you intend to take photos, I recommend bringing your GoPro as the views are great and its the easiest way to capture stunning photos of the via ferrata without having to stop. It takes 3.5 to 5 hours to complete and is recommended for those in at least moderate physical condition. We took another break before tackling the long hike down. We would absolutely love to try this experience. Anissa Laverne Larson, 53, of Tucson, Ariz.,. I put the camera away and didnt waste any more time returning to solid ground. There are certain places on the hike where you absolutely must plant your hands on the darker rocks during the climb up or down. You need to know yourself. 10/20/2022. Learn how your comment data is processed. Nelson Rocks, a primarily privately owned rock formation in Pendleton County known as NRocks Outdoor Adventures, has a spectacular footbridge. The highest part of the climb will be about 300 feet up on the air if you choose to climb to the top of the head wall, but the main route is about 200 feet off the ground. You may wear shorts if conditions allow. At the end of the climb, the rocks narrow ledge was only a couple of feet wide. By the way, thanks for the great experience. Attracting thousands of people annually from the east coast and beyond since the early 2000s, the Via Ferrata is open year-round, weather permitting. Via Ferrata - Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Nrocks Profile and History. America's Best Via Ferratas: 6 Great Vertical Adventures in the USA I just climbed the Nrocks via ferrata with my 13 year old son. The razorback ridgelines rise some 800 feet above the valley floor. Originally, there were many arches in this area, however these arches eroded over time, leaving the fins that you can still climb today. Unfortunately, it was pouring down rain when we approached the head wall, so the slipperiness kept anyone from our group from attempting the extra climb. Yes, some of the other mountains look taller, but thats because theyre closer. Let our knowledgeable guides lead you on a climbing adventure through the alpine terrain at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. The man was climbing the steep mountain on August 23 when he fell,. They can provide a helmet that has the GoPro mount. One of the most eye-catching attractions along the Via Ferrata is a 200-foot-long suspension bridge hanging 150 feet above the ground below. Sign up here to get exclusive travel tips, deals, and other inspiring goodies delivered to your inbox. The most adventurous climbers can take the extra challenge of completing the Head Wall, an additional 100 feet of vertical climbing. My harness held all the weight, allowing me to dangle, hands free, on the side of the mountain. You're not climbing those ladder-like rungs the whole time, but you're using your arms and legs frequently to push and pull yourself up, and your core and feet to keep yourself balanced on lots of uneven surfaces. Built in 2002, the NROCKS Via Ferrata was only the second of its kind to be established in the United States and still one of only three on the East Coast. Like Seneca Rocks, Nelson Rocks were used as a training ground for the U.S. Army's 10th Mountain Division in the early 1940s and an estimated 75,000 pitons are still to be found hammered into the rock. If you've ever driven through eastern West Virginia, you may have seen some of the towering fins of Tuscarora quartzite that rise out of the landscape like the craggy backs of dinosaurs. I always admired those ridiculously fit dudes who could scale a cliff like a monkey climbs a tree. It felt reassuring to be firmly secured to the safety cable. Your safety is dependent on you as the guides can help, but there is only so much they can do if you do not follow proper via ferrata technique. Although Nelson Rocks is not the first via ferrata in the United States, it is certainly one of the most scenic ones. This makes it much easier to climb cliffs, and sort of creates a hybrid between hiking and rock climbing. You don't have to look like a rock climber to do this via ferrata, though. Via Ferrata - Jackson Hole Mountain Resort Destination West Virginia: Seneca Rocks | DC News Now The season for the Full Moon Tours is April to October, and climbers must have prior experience on the Via Ferrata. For many years, this land was privately owned although it was opened to climbers in 1998 after being opened as part of the private Nelson Rocks Preserve.