5.0
(10)
Join AMGA-certified instructor Lester on a half-day trip to the stunning Shenandoah National Park and experience the thrill of rock climbing in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia.
Private
1/2 Day
Feb - Nov
Intermediate
Beginner
The Shenandoah National Park is set within the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, part of the historic and storied Appalachian Mountains. This magnificent range offers some of the most stunning vistas in the United States, all within proximity to the country’s capital. The composition of the Blue Ridge, which features a delightful amalgamation of ancient granite, limestone, and volcanic rock – is a climber’s dream.
At the same time remote and accessible, every stripe of adventurer can find the perfect route to satisfy their climbing needs. Our course begins along Skyline Drive at the Little Stony Man parking lot, where we will have our choice of great ascents. There are over 150 routes in the park, from trad and sport climbing to bouldering and top rope, ranging from basic 5.2 grades to more challenging 5.10+ climbs.
Some of the popular spots, like Little Stoney Man and Old Rag, are brimming with premium routes that can keep a climber occupied for days. Classic climbs include Strawberry Fields (5.9+), Dragon’s Back (5.7+), and Banana (5.2). The opportunities are endless, and the blend of different climbing disciplines ensures you will find just what you are looking for.
Because Shenandoah is within 75 miles of Washington, D.C., a half-day program is plenty of time to fulfill a quality climb on superb rock. We can cover a few different lines at various stages in the park and have you back in time for an afternoon in the city. This is a perfect program for a quick jaunt into the magnificent wilderness of the Appalachians.
This is one of my favorite areas in the country, and I am delighted to show it to you. My program will give you a local tour of a classic destination in the United States. You will feel as though you have known Shenandoah for years after just a few hours in its friendly company. Let me know what you have in mind for your half day on the pitch, and I will tailor this program to your skills and abilities.
We have routes for beginners and experts alike, so everyone is welcome to come along. If you have a passion for the sport and have a basic level of fitness, we will have an absolute blast and create some great memories along the way.
Wait no longer and BOOK this fantastic half-day rock climbing program to discover the fascinating world just outside the nation’s capital in Shenandoah National Park!
Looking for a more dedicated climbing experience with the same aesthetic splendor? Say no more! Join me for a day or more of these unforgettable climbs in Shenandoah!
Meeting point
What experience do I need for this trip?
We welcome everyone to join us, regardless of their skill level.
How far in advance should I start training and what kind of training do you suggest?
Preparing for a rock climbing trip requires physical conditioning, skill development, and mental readiness. Generally, it's a good idea to start training at least a few months before your trip. Focus on building upper body, core, and finger strength. You can also incorporate aerobic exercises like running, cycling, or hiking to improve your endurance.
When and where will we meet?
We will meet at 8:30 a.m. at the Little Stony Man parking lot. It is located near Mile Post 39.
What's included in the price?
The price includes the guiding fee.
What is the best time of the year to embark on this trip?
The ideal time for this trip is during the months of February through November.
Is this a group or private trip?
This trip is private, with one guide per group.
What is the guide-to-client ratio to climb this mountain?
There will be one guide for every 3 participants
4.8
(14)
Single Pitch Instructor
I am an avid climber and backpacker who loves taking people outdoors. For more than 30 years, I have been leading wilderness adventures in my backyard here in Virginia and West Virginia.
In addition to being an AMGA Single Pitch Instructor, I am also a certified member of the Professional Climbing Instructors' Association and a Wilderness First Responder. I have done cave rescue training with the National Cave Rescue Commission and am a proud member of the National Speleological Society.
I have published two editions of CLIMBING ROCKingham County, a guidebook of local crags around Harrisburg, VA. I also share my thoughts with fellow outdoor lovers and leaders via my quarterly newsletter "GUYdelines".
I very much enjoy working with young people and supporting the next generation of outdoor leaders.
Come and join me for a climb here in the Appalachians anytime. I look forward to showing you all of the best local spots!
Languages
English
Man
Climbing with guide Guillaume was absolutely a highlight of my 2-week Europe vacation. Originally, we were planning on climbing in the Calanques, but the park was closed due to wind and fire danger. Guillaume chose another amazing location (Pic de Bretagne) based on my climbing abilities and preferences and kindly offered train station pick-up and hotel drop off, which I appreciated very much. The multi-pitch route we did was not only fun but also the right amount of challenge, which I thoroughly enjoyed. The communication from the team (Gauthier) was prompt and clear—highly recommend!
Maxine
Luis Silva was a great climbing guide and belayer! He taught me how to do moves that were difficult and encouraged me to try routes that were challenging for me! Because of his encouragement, I managed to complete these routes! I really enjoyed the climbs and completed 8 routes in the Sesimbra/Azoia area. The weather was perfect, no direct sun and cool enough to enjoy the climbs. Explore-Share made booking an outdoor climbing experience in Lisbon extremely easy. Luis, our guide, was fantastic, and the platform’s organization was flawless.
Valeriya
You’re simply the best!!! :))) Explore-Share made everything easy and stress-free. Will definitely use again.
Joshua
We had Léo as a guide for our day climb in Fonty. We were blessed with a knowledgeable, warm, and instructive guide. Communication with Léo and Ivan was smooth and swift. Explore-Share was excellent in arranging everything for our day climb. The communication was quick, and the platform was easy to use, making our adventure stress-free.
Cami
Patrick was a great guide. He took us on an intermediate Via Ferrata at Passo Sella. Renato was quick to respond with any outreach on the Explore-Share platform. The booking process was straightforward, and once Patrick was confirmed, all went well. It was a wonderful experience, and I’d highly recommend the platform.
4.8
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