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When you arrive at the Nelson Rocks Preserve, you will meet the Via Ferrata staff and guides at the Registration Hut. Prior to beginning your tour, you will complete any remaining paperwork and waivers, be fitted into your personal safety gear and attend to safety instructions that will need to be adhered to during your climb. At the base of the Via Ferrata, your guide will provide you with orientation to the equipment, a demonstration of appropriate climbing techniques and how to manage your personal safety system. Your guide will also address the inherent risks on the Via Ferrata and mountain terrain.
It‘s difficult to compare the Via Ferrata experience to anything else. It can be very demanding or not so demanding depending on one’s level of fitness. It can also be emotionally taxing depending on one’s level of comfort with heights. Round trip, you will experience a two-mile hike/climb with an elevation gain of 900 feet and a subsequent elevation loss of 900 feet. At points you will experience over 200 feet of vertical exposure. While on the Via Ferrata you will be hiking/climbing on small ledges and stepping out over airy voids. For those who find the challenge to be more than anticipated, there are two escape routes in the first section of the Via prior to the suspension bridge. After crossing the 150 foot bridge, there is the optional Headwall Section -- a 45-foot vertical climb and an opportunity to stand on top of the rocks. The climb down from the Headwall is the only significant down climb on the tour and can be as equally challenging as the climb up. This optional route then rejoins the main Via route. Remember, the headwall is optional and is a good place to sit and take a break if you that is best for you. The Via ends in the upper-corridor section near the top of the mountain. To conclude your tour, there is an optional hike/scramble to the very summit of the rocks with an amazing 360 degree view. Either way there is a 30-minute hike back to Registration Hut – all downhill from this point.
Tour Overview
Tour Duration: |
3.5 – 5; hours depending on group size and ability |
Difficulty Level: |
No previous climbing experience required.
The tour will begin with a .5-mile hike to access the Via Ferrata. The Via Ferrata involves climbing and traversing across the fixed route with an elevation gain of 900 feet. Descending from the summit will be a 900 foot loss in elevation, with a 1-mile hike back to the hut. |
Bring With You: |
Small backpack (day pack is best), 2 quarts of water, trail snacks, camera (optional), sunscreen, extra clothing including rain gear, gloves (fingerless are best), and proper footwear (sturdy athletic shoes or lightweight hiking shoes/boots). Failure to wear the proper footwear may forfeit your climb. |
Minimum Age: |
13
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Departures: |
9am, 11am, 2pm, 3pm daily |
Price: |
$65 (weekends/holidays); $60 (weekdays)
Guide and all necessary equipment included.
Every 10th person in your group climbs for FREE! |
Group Size: |
4-14 people. If your group is less than 4, we will tentatively schedule your tour anticipating that others will join. It may be necessary for us to cancel climbing tours if the group size does not meet our minimum. If we do need to cancel your trip because of group size, we will let you know at least 72 hours prior to your scheduled tour. We will gladly refund your deposit or make arrangements to reschedule. |
Cancellation Policy: |
A 50% deposit is required to reserve your tour. Changes or cancellations must be made 72 hours prior to your scheduled tour for a full refund less a $25 administrative fee. Cancellations made less than 72 hours prior to your scheduled tour and “no shows” result in a forfeiture of your spot and you will not receive a refund.
If we cancel your tour due to weather or other unforeseeable conditions, we will reschedule your tour for another available time, or give you a full refund.
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Late Policy: |
Please arrive 15 minutes before your start time for necessary orientation and setup. Tours leave on a regular schedule and if you are late you will not be able to join your tour and will not receive a refund. |
Location: : |
141 Nelson Gap Road, Circleville, WV 26804
304 567-3169 – Registration Hut phone number |
Miscellaneous:: |
The Via Ferrata is located in a very rural area where cell phones do not work. Should you need to contact Via staff on the day of your tour please call the Registration Hut directly at 304 567-3169. Additionally, many of the businesses in the area only accept cash and the nearest ATM is 14 miles away. |
Lodging: |
On-site cabins and camping; both are rustic. Check back for new accommodations soon.
Off-site cabins, camping, and motels
Links |
Please note: |
The Via Ferrata property prohibits smoking, alcohol, drugs and pets.
Additionally, for safety purposes, glass containers are not permitted.
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