Italian for 'by way of iron' or 'iron road' the Via Ferrata is a permanently installed system of steel rungs and cables. That said, the Via Ferrata takes place in a wilderness setting which means there are elements of safety that are out of our control: wild animals, sudden changes in weather, or other acts of nature. Afterwards, thats a great spot for photos in case youre not comfortable taking one during the via ferrata. The climb is fairly long and you dont want to get dehydrated. The rock is made of quartzite and sandstone, which makes the rock easy to grip although a bit sharp at times. What I just described is a Via Ferrata. . NROCKS offers Sport Climbing, Top Rope Climbing, Zip Lines, guided Canopy Tours as well as the Nation's Premiere Via Ferrata. Check out this 2.2-mile loop trail near Circleville, West Virginia. Your email address will not be published. Me, though? 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. From a distance, those rocks dont look impressive. I used to live in West Virginia for a couple years and Im so sad that I didnt get a chance to explore muchIm definitely going to have to keep this place in mind! Looks. All Via Ferrata climbers will experience heights of approximately 200 feet! Filed Under: Adventure Travel, North America, Travel, United States, via-ferrata. Does this via ferrata look crazy fun, or just plain crazy to you? 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. You might even save a buck or two! A great place to really get out and get some fresh air rock climbing in is the Nelson Rocks Via Ferrata. A Via Ferrata is a particular climbing route that is has metal ladders, rails, and other things that are securely anchored into the mountain, making it easier (and . I highly recommend this for anyone who wants to do a rock climb without needing all the experience required to do lead climbing. But, fun nonetheless!! Think you might like to book this adventure for yourself? It is a one-of-a-kind adventure experience with a mile of fixed-anchor, professionally guided rock climbing. Reviews - nrocks.com The Via passes through the notch, then continues up the other side of the first fin. 2023 A Dangerous Business. AVA built another hybrid via ferrata/adventure course just outside of Buena Vista that opened in summer 2018. Then off you go, the higher you climb, the better the views! Let's back up a second, though. This place looks amazing! The darker colored rocks on Angels Landing start to get quite hot around the noon hour during the summer months. Note: Subscribers to our iPad version can access bonus video and photos for this story. Gavinroy38, Colne, United Kingdom. We took a short break at this point, and Bryan told us that we had one last chance to take an escape route if we were feeling shaky on the course. But, the climb was incredibly rewarding! 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! Harnesses or lanyards that get old or sun-damaged eventually fail. It blends a via ferrata route with zip lines, a 70-foot rappel and a 50-foot free fall. Our Via Ferrata tethers allow for at least one connection at all times. The area is operated under the name of NROCKS Outdoor Adventures, and was previously known as Nelson Rocks Outdoor Center ( NROC ). The staff at NROCKS tries their very best to accommodate walk ins, but are sometimes unable to do so. There's no easing into this via ferrata; you start with a vertical climb straight away! The bridge is 150 feet off the ground. Nelson Rocks Outdoor Center - Canopy Tours, Via Ferrata Climbs, Cabins 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. North Fork Valley Canopy Tour, High Flying Adventure!! The naturally-occurring route has been there forever; the rungs and cables merely make it easier to navigate it. Brian is fanatical about safety, and spent a good half-hour making sure we knew what we were doing. I once again let the Ontarians go ahead. > Nelson Rocks Via Ferrata A mountain jungle gym connects two majestic quartzite fins in West Virginia's North Fork Valley. The formation at Nelson Rocks is made up of two razorbacks "Fin" ridgelines of Tuscarora Quartzite rock. Uncategorized / By imvince11. Climbing the Via Ferrata at Nelson Rocks - Time to Climb Our group hiked up to the base of the first fin, then stopped for some instruction. 10 Awesome Things to Do in New River Gorge National Park. TripAdvisor.com, Join the NROCKS family and receive our free Insider's Guide to the North Fork Valley, packed with useful information about the region. This West Virginia Via Ferrata Is Longer (And Higher) Than - MSN There is no doubt about it. NROCKS Outdoor Adventures (formerly Nelson Rocks Adventure Center) is the premiere guided climbing center in West Virginia and the North Fork Valley Region. Via Ferrata - Nelson Rocks, WV - YouTube Nelson Rocks | DIY Outdoors | West Virginia University The season for the Full Moon Tours is April to October, and climbers must have prior experience on the Via Ferrata. The bridge is 150 feet high and 200 feet across. 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. She was pronounced dead at the scene. This makes it much easier to climb cliffs, and sort of creates a hybrid between hiking and rock climbing. The other two are waist-high, creating handrails. A fifth cable runs overhead, which allowed us to clip in. The NROCKS Via Ferrata is a one-of-a-kind adventure experience that includes a mile of fixed-anchor, professionally-led rock climbing. 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). West Virginia rock climbing at its finest! Having a home base to come back to after a day of West Virginia outdoor adventure is important, which is why we offer convenient on-site lodging options. . Nelson Rocks is a large privately owned rock formation located in the North Fork Valley of Pendleton County, West Virginia, United States. Nelson Rocks Via Ferrata: West Virginia - Breezy Days Ahead All participants are required to have an NROCKS-approved guide. While climbing the Nelson Rocks via ferrata, there was a man who really struggled with his fear of heights who had to downclimb from the summit climb. One of them was more nervous than anyone in our group. *taxes not included in pricing. Glad this brought back some memories; it was so fun! Definitely worth putting on the to-do list if youre in West Virginia! big_g - Sep 26, 2006 10:28 am - Voted 9/10 21 Sep 2006 Fatality. MUST have prior experience on the Via Ferrata at NROC & must be 13 years old or older. Before this, though, Bryan gave us a safety briefing, and showed us how to safely hook in to the course. It . org, to learn about these. Interested in outdoor education and teambuilding? Originally, there were many arches in this area, however these arches eroded over time, leaving the fins that you can still climb today. Here at NROCKS we specialize in groups of all sizes. 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. But also there are a couple escape routes if you get up there and decide its too much for you. There are no extra reinforcements to keep the contraption from bouncing, twisting, or swaying in the wind. I am very lucky that Im not really afraid of heights! No matter what your skill level, weve got rock for you! But you should plan to be up on the rocks for at least 4 hours, and bring everything you might need during that time. A short drive from Nelson, . It's a short hike to the base of the west fin, where you climb 200 feet to a ridge and traverse along solid ledges. Send me updates and special offers from NROCKS! I tried to stand, but the sheer drop on either side of my feet left me feeling dizzy. The via ferrata in Telluride, also known as the "Krogerata," was the brain child of renowned climber and local builder, Chuck Kroger. I do remember almost 15 years ago, when i step into slippery point or spots then suddenly, i get knocked very hard in the head, and thanks God im wearing a helmet. OYMYO Boating, fishing, RVing, ATVing, and hunting are among the most . The only real rule on a via ferrata like this is that you must always, always have at least one of your lanyards attached at all times. He managed to get through the course, but he said that he was done climbing for good. At this point, unguided climbing is prohibited on the property and all climbing is regulated by the company that owns the property. The nearest cold beverages and modern restrooms are at a convenience store in Circleville, 2 miles south. When I first saw photos of this via ferrata, I was immediately sold on doing it. A night out like no other! 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. 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. Hand crafted from real classic license plates. Nelson Rocks says that climbers need to have "some physical ability.". There's also a few famous routes close to Barcelona, including one difficult one on Montserrat. With via ferratas, you are supposed to remain hooked in at all times, so you can imagine how deadly a fall can be if you slip from 150 feet off the ground. The group were on a break . While resting, snacking, and gulping down what remained of our water supplies, Brian told us how he has climbed the Via Ferrata hundreds of times even in rain, fog, or snow. The Via Ferrata at NROCKS is a one of a kind adventure experience, offering a mile of fixed-anchor, professionally-guided rock climbing. Once on the rock, climbers must ensure their own safety by keeping their equipment properly connected to the fixed-anchor systems at all times. Yes, it is an outhouse. Several times, I had to quickly clip to a rung and go hands-free, just to give myself a rest. The Via Ferrata is open by appointment only. . I did this years ago and your pictures bring back awesome memories! Flexible because you can choose from 2 to 10 days of via ferrata trekking. The bridge is built with four cables. Send me updates and special offers from NROCKS! There is one such route on Half Dome in Yosemite National Park that has been climbed by thousands without incident. Nelson Rocks Preserve): a privately-owned nature preserve near Judy Gap, West Virginia. Staff/Guides were outstanding, very safety conscious and had a great sense of humor. The razorback ridgelines rise some 800 feet above the valley floor. For the first stage of the climb, we went up and to the left, working our way to a notch in the first fin. From that time I drove a few hundred miles out of my way to head towards a potential snowstorm. Please take a minute to explore our photos to get a better idea of what the climb entails. Although they can accomodate people walking in, Id recommend making a reservation to ensure that you can climb. For more information, tips, or trip ideas come talk to our friendly staff at the Visitor Information Centre and Station Gallery. 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. For more information about the Via Ferrata at Nelson Rocks, visit the Nelson Rocks Outdoor Center website at www.nelsonrocks.org or call 877.435.4342. Ouray Via Ferrata - San Juan Mountain Guides Sign up to climb the Via Ferrata on the night of the full moon, April October. You should wear close-toed shoes that you can move easily in (hiking boots, running shoes, etc.). NROCKS offers Sport Climbing, Top Rope Climbing, Zip Lines, guided Canopy Tours as well as the Nations Premiere Via Ferrata. Hope to do it again this year at 73. Here's everything you need to know. I'm in fairly decent shape cardio and muscle-wise (thanks, at-home HIIT workouts, and former-gymnast calves and thighs), and I knew I was well within the weight range required for the climbing gear. Its important to have good technique and to check into how often the via ferrata is maintained. It was really cool, and I would definitely do it again! Notify me of follow-up comments by email. . While the safety cables continued, there were only a few spots, like this one, that required a brief climb. If climbers follow the instructions of the guides and are attentive to their own responsibilities within the group, most risks can be effectively managed. Brian only wanted three people at the most on the bridge at a time. Also have done 1 VF in New Zealand and 2 in Colorado. This makes it much easier to climb cliffs, and sort of creates a hybrid between hiking and rock climbing. 2023 Best Via Ferrata Trails in Circleville | AllTrails Theres not an easy answer. Check out the license plate sculptures I'm selling on Etsy! Still, you must be aware of weather as a cloudy day can create dangerous conditions on many via ferratas. 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. The route is open year-round as the weather . Explore Hikes in Nelson BC - Hike Kootenay Lake - Discover Nelson A Dangerous Business is a participant in several affiliate programs. After going uphill for about 15-20 minutes, we arrived at the base of the first fin we'd be tackling and basically dove right in. We climbed horizontally along the wall until we reached the point where the bridge is. Many experienced rock climbers have enjoyed climbing the Via Ferrata. It was amazing last January. Most of us did not have good cell phone service at all in the area. I think without helmet and proper gear or shoes, i think i am no longer in this world. 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. Previously, the move had been pure fun. 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. My short legs made things a little more difficult for me, but I didn't get stuck anywhere and was having fun from the moment I clipped into that cable. What if you could make your way up a mountainside, almost as easily as climbing a ladder? Climbing a Via Ferrata in West Virginia: Crazy Fun or Just Plain Crazy? Reservations, policies, discounts and specials. The premiere Via Ferrata in North America. I wore a good pair of hiking sneakers, athletic clothes, and my fingerless climbing gloves. It makes me want to prepare a trip right away! The via ferrata is one of only a handful in the US and well worth . Those rock fins that protrude from the side of the mountain are part of NRocks (a.k.a. Leave your cell phone in the car theres no coverage here. NROCKS offers Via Ferrata tours, the North Fork Valley Canopy Tour, and guided rock climbing and caving tours. In convention rock climbing, someone needs to be ensuring that you dont fall. NROCKS provides top quality equipment from CMI for all activities! During our climb, we learned a lot about how he happily lives a primitive life. All of our outdoor adventures are amazing, so why pick just one? 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. Experience the Nelson Rocks Preserve, as it weaves its way over a half mile of some of the wildest terrain around. Let our knowledgeable guides lead you on a climbing adventure through the alpine terrain at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. I first considered Zions east side is often underappreciated and unvisited by many of the parks visitors. Check out this video of our via ferrata experience: Somehow, even after showing him photos and videos of the course, Elliot agreed to try the NROCKS via ferrata with me. Had no idea you could do something like this in West Virginia. Caving is an outdoor activity that involves exploring underground and undeveloped passages. NRocks Via Ferrata: Rock Climbing Adventure - TakeMyTrip.com 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. The man was climbing the steep mountain on August 23 when he fell,. The Via Ferrata is open by appointment only. We climbed up the second fin, and then reached an optional extra climb. Amanda Joy Crawford / North Versailles native, victim in rock-climbing So what do you think? Once Jeanne neared the end, and Neil reached the middle, I took my first step. Im 41 and athletic, and I did find it challenging. Related: The Telluride Via Ferrata Is For Experienced Climbers Only, And This Is Why. I discovered I was in that minority. PDF I Came, I Climbed, DNR I Conquered WV - Wonderful WV We utilize the best equipment in the industry, hire well-qualified guides who then receive high-level training, and we regularly review our procedures to ensure that we are providing the safest experience possible. At Elkins, follow signs to stay on 33 East and onto Rt 33/55 to Seneca Rocks. 1. American expat and cat lover fromNew York Citywho lived inAmsterdam. Our group took a break at the end of the bridge, if for no other reason than to give us the chance to work up the nerve. By the way, thanks for the great experience. You can climb in to get a 360 view of the area from the top. Instead, you'll hike partway down on a steep trail through the forest, and then catch a ride the rest of the way down in a bus or 4WD vehicle. After this point, youll turn onto the fin. Youd have to be crazy to trust your life to a little metal clip hammered into the side of a mountain. Atop the headwall, theres a great view of the farmland that borders WV Route 28. This meant I would bring up the rear, and I couldnt have been happier. Look at our package deals to combine activities and lodging. Beginners and experienced enthusiasts enjoy the Via Ferrata at NROCKS. Very nice climb. 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. 28, just 11 miles south of Seneca Rocks. 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. 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.