Regretfully, Nelson Rocks Preserve has announced that it is closed to rock climbing until further notice. The closure applies to all conventional, roped rock climbing, both "sport" and "trad", as well as unroped bouldering, scrambling and similar off-trail activities, by the general public.

(The Nelson Rocks Via Ferrata is not affected by this policy. The via remains open during regular hours and by appointment. Click here for hours, prices and other details.)

Several factors influenced this decision. Since the Preserve was formally opened for climbing access in 1998, there have been a number of serious accidents at NRP involving roped climbing parties. Fortunately, none of these were fatal, but some climbers have suffered permanent disabilities, and full-on rescues have been required, involving large numbers of volunteer rescuers, both squad members and individual climbers.

Despite NRP's well known policy as to assumption of risk, as management we are deeply concerned whenever injuries occur in the park. Meanwhile, climber traffic has been increasing dramatically, doubling between the second quarter of '04 and this year. Obviously, this further increases both the risk of serious mishaps, and the potential for environmental impacts. During the period of closure, NRP intends to conduct an internal assessment of these impacts and issues. Input from the public is welcome and may be directed to NRP at P.O. Box 93, Riverton, WV 26814, tel. 304-567-3169, fax 304-567-3244.

Exceptions will be considered for groups organized by established outdoor clubs, schools, etc. If you feel your group may qualify or have questions about this policy, please don't hesitate to contact NRP. Any such exceptions will be considered on a case-by-case basis and in NRP's sole discretion.

Guided rock climbing and instruction at the Preserve are permitted only with the express consent of NRP.

Click here for NRP's policies regarding group rock climbing visits.

CLIMBING GUIDELINES

1. THIS IS A HIGH ROCKFALL AREA!!! USE OF HELMETS IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED. BE CAREFUL WITH LOOSE ROCK - HIKERS MAY BE BELOW YOU.
2. Comply with NRP policy and standards for first ascents and use of fixed anchors. DO NOT LEAVE FIXED GEAR WITHOUT PERMISSION. Contact NRP management or use the Route Submission Form to submit your proposed project.
3. Many climbs have been done which have not yet been documented. Assume any climb has been done and find out before acting.
4. RESCUE IS UNAVAILABLE - be able to take care of yourself.
5. Trails are delicate - please take care of them.
6. No radios. No dogs. No trash (including tape, cig. butts, powerbar wrappers etc.)
7. PERIODIC AREA CLOSURES FOR RESOURCE PRESERVATION, RESERVED INSTRUCTION, HIKER-ONLY DAYS ETC. ARE A POSSIBILITY - CHECK BACK HERE FOR NOTICES.
8. The rocks south of Nelson Run (with the pinnacles) are not part of the Preserve. Please do not trespass.
9. Commercial climbing instruction and guiding are prohibited except by express permission of NRP management.
10. Carry some "earth tone" webbing and slings. Do not leave brightly colored webbing or other gear on the crags. Use established rappel and descent routes where practical.
11. Old fixed anchors (pitons) are considered to be historical artifacts and are the property of NRP. Do not damage or remove.
12. Information on climbing (such as route information) and other recreation in the Preserve is proprietary information of NRP. By visiting the Preserve, you agree that all rights to publish or reproduce such information in any written, elctronic or digital form are reserved exclusively by NRP. Last modified February 13, 2000

©2006 Nelson Rocks Preserve