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. 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 NROCKS Via Ferrata adventure includes gear, a short training, and a mile long guided tour. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Rocky hills, heart-stopping high-wire thrills on West Virginia's Via Via Ferrata climbers must be at least 13 years of age and must be in good physical condition with the ability to handle the physical challenges of climbing while maintaining tether connections, etc. 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. While Nelson Rocks is best known for rock climbing, this is not the only activity to enjoy. Sign up to receive the Insider's Guide to the North Fork Valley! It pays to get to know your fellow climbers a few weeks after our climb, Neil and I exchanged pictures (a much better idea than passing a camera back and forth!). Rock Climbing in West Virginia to the Scary Swinging Bridge at N Rocks It runs near Circleville in West Virginia. First, youll scale the wall that will bring up up the fin. Climbers/hikers are required to use harnesses, helmets, and locking carabiners. Now, though, they are mostly used for recreation. Harnesses or lanyards that get old or sun-damaged eventually fail. Participants are secured to the rock by wearing a special harness that attaches to the steel cable. Almost anyone! The bridge was our favorite part of the climb, as my son had been waiting a year to get the chance to cross it. Click here to find out what dates are available and to book your adventure today! But, fun nonetheless!! I put the camera away and didnt waste any more time returning to solid ground. At the time, it was only the second via ferrata in the United States. After the troopers crossed, it was our turn. The nearest cold beverages and modern restrooms are at a convenience store in Circleville, 2 miles south. This is where we came across that exposed section that Elliot found pretty terrifying, but it didn't last long before we had rock under our feet again. Not for the faint of heart, but well worth the effort. Guest lounge, hiking, climbing wall and more! . The course isn't for the faint of heart or those with more than a healthy fear of heights. 10/20/2022. Visitors from the Northeast region and around the world enjoy adventure vacations at NROCKS. The bridge wasnt terrifying. While they are not for everyone, they are a great option to combine hiking with rock climbing. This is true for most via ferratas in Europe, but in the United States, liability laws result in having instructors there to monitor your safety. When encountering a tree, you need to keep one clip attached while attaching the second clip to the cable. and Arches. Climbing the Via Ferrata is safe but be very careful to follow all the safety procedures and listen to the safety instructors. Our guide, Brian, greeted us. NROCKS offers Sport Climbing, Top Rope Climbing, Zip Lines, guided Canopy Tours as well as the Nation's Premiere Via Ferrata. The staff at NROCKS tries their very best to accommodate walk ins, but are sometimes unable to do so. Via Ferrata Failures and Life - By Common Consent, a Mormon Blog I brought my DSLR, which was a bit difficult to climb with. They have facilities of their own, but can also customize a day trip at NROCKS to focus on teambuilding. This West Virginia Via Ferrata Is Longer (And Higher) Than Climbers Realize The views are spectacular and the the fulfilling feeling of accomplishment is like none other. Could a chunky-yet-adventurous woman complete this course? But Elliot set aside his fears and went up to the very top with the rest of the group. NROCKS offers Via Ferrata tours, the North Fork Valley Canopy Tour, and guided rock climbing and caving tours. 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. There are two escape points on the Via Ferrata, should you decide you dont want to continue. There's also a few famous routes close to Barcelona, including one difficult one on Montserrat. This bridge looks like something you'd expect to find in an Indiana Jones movie. Think you might like to book this adventure for yourself? This occurred while a woman was climbing with the proper gear, but completely unhooked herself from the safety cables while going around a tree. A few things I'd be sure to bring include: What if I get scared?