Frequently Asked Questions:
- Is the Via Ferrata Safe?
The answer is No. There is inherent danger with any high adventure activity. We train everyone on how to climb safely and we monitor our climbers. Our safety systems have redundency built into them. That does not mean that someone will follow our simple rules and safety systems, and death may be the result.
- Are there age limits?
Yes, for the Climbing Adventure. No, for the Guided Rock Climbing or Rappelling. Ages 10 and older for the Climbing Adventure. We also require that children between the ages of 10 to 14 be accompanied by an adult or a guide. The adult or guide can accompany up to 5 youth in that age range. A guide will cost $10 per hour. For Guided Rock Climbing or Rappelling there is no age limit however, an age of 6 or older is recommended.
- Do I have to have any prior climbing experience?
No. We will train you in our training program. The Climbing Adventure route is also divided up into different degrees of difficulty; beginner, intermediate, advanced, and expert. If one is interested in the Guided Climbing or Rappelling, classes are designed around your skill level.
- How do I get down from the Climbing Adventure course?
There are 6 exits on the course. An exit is a place to get down. Basically it is cable, hand and foot hungs that go down instead of continuing on. Exits are at the beginning of each level of difficulty, so you can come down prior to going beyond your physical limit.
- What is the difference between the Climbing Adventure and Guided Climbing?
The CLIMBING ADVENTURE allows one to experience rock climbing with the use of cables, and iron hand and foot rungs. Before climbing one goes through a training course and then climbs on their own and are supervised by a Torrent Falls staff from the base level. One must be 10 years of age to participate. On the other hand, GUIDED CLIMBING uses ropes instead of cables and only rock, there is no iron rebar for the hand or foot steps. One is with a certified AMGA instuctor for the whole experience. One can be any age to participate in the guided climbing. We ask that you call us, so we can tailor a day of adventure spefically for you.
- What happens if I fall on the Climbing Adventure?
The Via Ferrata harness system is designed to catch you within 2 to 3 feet. Most people do not fall unless they are on the expert section. If one falls, they must be assited by Torrent Falls staff to either climb on or be lowered to the ground. Events as such are coverd in the Climbing Adventure training program.
- What if I freeze or get stuck while on the Climbing Adventure?
Our staff is trained in either talking you through completing that section or lowering you to the ground.
- If I get there late in the day, is there a discount or a half day price?
No.
- Is there a discount for only climbing part of the Climbing Adventure course?
No. We only offer a discounted rate for completing the training rock and nothing else. Whether you do one section or you climb all day, there is still one price.
- Can anyone climb?
Torrent Falls staff is not trained to handle physically or mentally handicapped individuals.
- Do you allow pets?
Yes, you may bring your dog as long as it is on a leash at all times and it is quiet. It becomes a safety hazard if we can not hear climbers. Dogs must be friendly with people and other pets. Dogs must be with a dog owner at all times, we do not babysit your pets while you are climbing.
- What if it rains?
We are still open and climbing if it rains. Appropriate clothing should be worn. We do not allow climbing during thunder or lightning storms. We do not allow climbing in conditions of ice.
- Do I need rock climbing shoes for the Climbing Adventure?
No. Good hiking boots or tennis shoes work fine. Do not wear sandals. If you are participating in the guided climbing you can bring your own climbing shoes, if you have them. If not, they are provided.
- Do I need to wear gloves for the Climbing Adventure?
No, but fingerless gloves are recommended. Bicycle gloves or weight lifting gloves work very well. The carabiners are difficult to actuate with fingered gloves.
- Can I use my own climbing gear?
Yes, if it is "climbing gear" and we inspect it and it is approved. For the Climbing Adventure, you have to use our specifically designed via ferrata sling lines. There is no discount for using your own gear.
- Can I wear a back pack while climbing the Climbing Adventure?
Yes, you can take water, camel backs, cameras, fanny packs, etc. As long as it doesn't interfer with the safety gear.
- How long does the Climbing Adventure take?
That depends on the person. Typically, we like to tell people if they are in good physical condition and stick with it about 2 to 4 hours, but most people are unable to complete the course. The hard parts are hard.
- How many times can we climb the Climbing Adventure course?
As many times as you can fit in in one day. The course is divided up into 6 sections.
- Can we leave and come back in the same day?
Yes
- What can I do if I'm not climbing but my party is?
You are more than welcome to hang out at the base level. You will be able to see most of the climbing from the ground level. We have a fishing pond but it is catch and release and you must bring your own equipment. If you felt like venturing, there are hundreds of beautiful hikes in the Red River Gorge.
- What else is there to do in the area?
We are located in the Daniel Boone National Forest, and Red River Gorge Region. There are hundreds of beautiful trails and natural arches. There is also canoeing on the Red River. We also offer Guided Rock Climbing and Guided Rappelling. Please check out our website for more information.
- Can I go rappelling off the Climbing Adventure?
No. We offer separate rappelling courses set up in a different area. Please visit Rappelling on this site.
