31. Rock Climbing in Breaks Park and Southwest Virginia with Brad Mathisen and Kyle King, Central Appalachia Climbers Coalition

Virginia Outdoor Adventures

“You can climb a route to the top and get this incredible view of the gorge. There’s a feeling of grandeur and wilderness, even though you're extremely close to all the amenities in the park. That's one of the things that makes it a unique place. At one point it feels easy and accessible, and on the other hand, still really wild and out in nature and adventurous.” -Brad Mathisen, Central Appalachia Climbers Coalition
Tucked away in a remote corner of Southwest Virginia on the Kentucky border, lies a canyon with towering sandstone cliffs like layers of a tiered cake, natural geologic formations that make this area a climber’s paradise. Kyle King and Brad Mathisen, President and Past President of the Central Appalachia Climbers Coalition, describe the effort undertaken in recent years to offer world-class outdoor recreation at Breaks Interstate Park. Kyle and Brad share the range of beginner and kid-friendly to advanced rock-climbing opportunities at Breaks, as well as their advice for first-time climbers. The collaborative partnership between climbers and Breaks Park is playing a role in revitalizing towns and stimulating economic growth, transforming Central Appalachia into a nationally recognized ecotourism destination. Let’s Go!
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Breaks Interstate Park

Guide Book: Breaks Interstate Park Rock Climbs by Bradly Mathisen

Central Appalachia Climbers Coalition

Access Fund

Mountain Sports Limited, Bristol

Spearhead Trails

Hidden Valley

Grayson Highlands Bouldering Guidebook

Gravelachia Bike Race in Norton

Sugar Hill Cidery

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