Rock Climbing

In addition to the Via Ferrata, Nelson Rocks Preserve is available for guided top-rope climbing and rock climbing instruction for individuals and groups through WILD GUYde Adventures.  The steep slabs of Tuscarora sandstone and stunning backdrops make for a marvelous vertical playground and classroom!  The Preserve is not currently open for self-guided or independent rock climbing. 

Who wants to climb? Families, church youth groups, scout troops, college clubs, sororities and frats, camp trips, and individuals wanting a day of fun or to learn some basic skills.

Activity options:

• Recreational climbing: climbing on routes of various difficulties, practicing edging, smearing, and belaying too if you want to learn; a rappel can be added if desired (half day $125 1-3 people, and then $25 each additional person; full day $200 1-3 people, and then $45 each additional person). The half-day recreational climbing option can be linked up with a trip on the Via Ferrata if you have lots of energy and are ready for a really full day! ($125 1-3 people to climb + $60 per person for the Via)

• Instructional climbing: lots of climbing, plus learning various basic knots, anchor systems, and belay station management ($125 1st P, then $95 each for 2nd and 3rd).

• BSA Climbing Merit Badge: this 2-day program takes scouts through the 12 requirements of the Climb On Safely curriculum ($75 each, 5 minimum). A supplemental instructional booklet will be provided for each participant.

Steps to setting up your rock climbing trip:

1. Contact WILD GUYde Adventures at (540) 433-1637 or lester@wildguyde.com to arrange dates and times. Group leaders may want to talk with WILD GUYde about appropriate group sizes, ages, route difficulties, and local lodging options.



2. Print off and distribute copies of the NRP waiver to your group members. Hand-carry the signed copies to your event.



3. Each climber should bring: hiking footwear (hiking boots or running shoes), activity clothing appropriate to the forecast, ample water (1-2 qts. each), lunch and snacks, camera, bug repellant, and any personally owned climbing equipment (helmet, harness, climbing shoes).



4. Do not bring: tobacco products, alcohol, flippies or sandals, pets, weapons (firearms or fixed blade knives), expensive electronics (iPODS, MP3 players, cell phones, or laptops).



5. WGA will provide: climbing ropes and hardware, helmets, harnesses, climbing shoes, and instruction.

Who is this WILD GUYde? WILD GUYde Adventures is a member of the Access Fund and the National Speleological Society; WGA is a permitee with the George Washington and Monongahela National Forests, and is an equal opportunity employer and provider. For more information on WILD GUYde Adventures, you may visit WILD GUYde Adventures. Lester R. Zook is a Wilderness First Responder, a certified Single Pitch Instructor with the American Mountain Guides Association, and a certified instructor with the Professional Climbing Instructors’ Association. He has been taking people outdoors for 20 years, and his favorite colors are blue and green! Anything else you want to know..?