VIA stands for "very intense adventure".  "Ferrata" is Italian for "like driving a ferrari".  Seriously?  No.  It's Italian for "iron road" or "iron way".  A via ferrata is basically a long climbing route with permanently fixed cables for protection.  Steel rungs are used on steeper sections to keep the difficulty of the climbing moderate, and bridges are often used. Where did the idea come from?  VFs have been used in the Alps for a century or more.  During the world wars, they were used to move troops easily through high mountain terrain.  VF climbing has become a popular sport in Europe, with dozens in existence and more being built all the time.  The Nelson Rocks VF is the first and only American-designed and built via ferrata in the world.  It includes a a 230' long, 150' high swinging foot bridge, one of the longest such bridges in the country.

Who can climb a via ferrata?

Anyone who is fit enough to handle rugged trail hiking. No rock climbing experience is needed. VF's are a way to experience the excitement, exposure and scenic beauty enjoyed by climbers, without spending the time and money necessary to become a skilled and equipped climber.

What equipment is used?

A standard climbing harness and helmet, and a double, shock absorbing lanyard specifically designed for via ferrata climbing, such as the Petzl Zyper. These items can be rented at NRP. How do you use the Zyper? Attached to the harness, it has two cords or lanyards with carabiners, used to anchor the climber to the safety cable and (sometimes) to rungs. As the climber moves past an anchor point on the cable, the two biners are unclipped and clipped on the other side of the anchor, in succession, so that the climber is attached with at least one lanyard at all times. On bridge crossings, the lanyards are always clipped to a safety cable overhead. Because a fall down the safety cable to the nearest anchor point can generate dangerously high forces, the Zyper is equipped with a load limiting (shock absorbing) device. Ordinary climbing slings are unsafe and may not be used on the VF.

Is the via ferrata safe?

No.

What do you mean, no?

Via ferrata climbing is not like a theme park ride, where you're strapped in and your safety is guaranteed. It's potentially dangerous, not unlike skiing, boating, mountain biking and so on. It requires alertness and careful judgment.  The cable system is designed, when used properly, to prevent the climber from falling to the ground. Nevertheless, a fall from various positions on the VF could result in serious injuries. It is important to realize the differences between belayed climbing on a top rope (at a climbing gym, for instance), where the rope catches you immediately if you fall, and the VF system, where a fall will take you to the lowest point on the section of cable. Other dangers include rock fall, lightning, and a variety of other uncontrollable risks.  All of this is discussed at the orientation for first time climbers.

Real climbers won't be using the VF, will they?

Only if they like the idea of leaving the rope and rack in the car, climbing nonstop for a couple of hours without stopping to belay, and enjoying some of the most exposed and outrageous terrain in the East.

How scary is the VF for non-climbers?

Very.  It will likely be the most intense adventure experience you've ever had.

Why's it so expensive?  ($75.00/person)

It was expensive to build, as you'll appreciate when you see it. Trust us, it's worth it.

What should I bring?

Wear loose fitting clothing and good shoes (tennis shoes, hiking boots etc.; no sandals). Bear in mind that it's cooler and windier up on the rocks, so bring some extra clothes. A rain jacket is a good idea.  Fingerless gloves (a limited supply is available at NRP).  Water and food.  A small pack should be carried by at least one member of the party to carry items not in use; everyone will need their hands free to climb. Climbers may use their own harnesses and climbing helmets.

How long will it take?

Allow for 2-3 hours of climbing at a relaxed pace.

One word of warning, NRP has a disclaimer you must read if you want to be a guest.  For those with computers, you have got to read this disclaimer.  It's covers just about everything, http://www.nelsonrocks.org/annualpass.pdf.  If the disclaimer doesn't scare you off, go for it.  All I've got to say is you've got guts Tim!!!!!