Nelson Rocks Preserve is currently closed to rock climbing by the general public. The closure applies to all conventional, roped rock climbing, both "sport" and "trad", as well as unroped bouldering, scrambling and similar off-trail activities.

Guided rock climbing and instruction by schools and guide services are permitted at the Preserve with the prior express consent of NRP management only. Schools or guide services interested in offering guiding or instruction should contact NRP for information.

Exceptions to the climbing closure will be considered for groups organized by established outdoor clubs, schools, etc. Interested organizations should contact NRP well in advance for information on requirements. Any such exceptions are considered on a case-by-case basis, in NRP's absolute discretion, and any such determinations are final. Click here for additional NRP policies concerning group visits.

Consent by NRP to the use of the Preserve for any purpose by any climbing school, guide service, club etc. does not constitute a determination by NRP as to the qualifications, experience, knowledge or skill of such organization. Participating climbers do so at their own risk.

Seneca Rocks Climbing School offers a full range of instruction and guiding at NRP; this excellent school has provided instruction in the North Fork Valley for 34 years. Contact:

Seneca Rocks Climbing School
P.O. Box 53
Seneca Rocks, WV USA, 26884-0053
Phone 304-567-2600 or 800-548-0108
www.seneca-rocks.com

The Nelson Rocks Via Ferrata is not affected by the rock climbing closure. The via remains open during regular hours and by appointment, and is an excellent introduction to the vertical world. Click here for hours, prices and other details.)

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