Basic Rock Climbing - Northern Virginia

Vacationing between a rock and a hard place

By Charmian Christie

Thought beta flash was just a computer term and that Gumby was a Claymation™ classic? If so, you might want to broaden your outdoor horizons with a bit of rock climbing. A good outfitter will show you the ropes - and the helmets and the seat harness - and turn you from a Gumby (inexperienced climber) into a bona fide climber.

While rock climbing, also know as abseiling or rappelling, looks death defying, beginners of almost any age will be safe providing they start small and get the right gear and training before heading out. To ensure your first climb is a success, sign up for a tour aimed at basics. A good outfitter will supply the technical gear and provide hands-on lessons with an emphasis on technique, safety and climbing terminology. You'll even learn how to strap on the gear, even though it wraps around places that just don't feel right.

The rewards? Amazing views, some laughs, a few scrapes to prove you did it and a sense of accomplishment. It's also a great way for your family to learn how to work together without squabbling. Climbing requires teamwork and communication, which is why it's popular for corporate team building. And if the kids know they're learning anything beyond how to climb rocks, they'll love it even more.

If You Go

Want to get a jump start on a rock climbing? Try an indoor climbing gym to get comfortable with the equipment and techniques, but don't confuse an indoor climbing session with scaling the rocks in the great outdoors. Not only will the scenery be superior to a concrete wall dotted with multi-colored holds, it's more challenging to spot the grips nature provides.

There are plenty of climbs to choose from, all within a short drive of Washington, D.C. Some to investigate include

  • Great Falls National Park: This park straddles Maryland and Virginia, with most of the best climbs located on the Virginia side.
  • Carderock in C&O Canal National Historic Park: Only minutes from the District of Columbia, Carderock has been a popular climbing destination since the 20s.
  • Talking Head Wall: These moderate climbs are easily accessed and sit amidst some of the loveliest scenery in Northern Virginia.
  • Crescent Rocks (aka Raven Rocks): Located in West Virginia, these rocks provide easy climbs for novices.

While you're out enjoying nature, plan to change things up a bit. Most climbing country is also great for canoeing, kayaking, hiking and even spelunking. Ask your outfitter for options beyond the climb.

Gateway Connections

  • Baltimore-Washington International Airport will land you within driving distance of all the best climbing Northern Virginia has to offer.

When to Go

  • As soon as the weather is relatively mild, climbing begins.
  • Most outfitters work excursions around the summer vacation, but some provide treks into October.

Share your family travel thoughts with Charmian.