Guided fixed-cable climbing route beneath Palisades Overlook is only via ferrata in a state park in the United States
Opening today, Arkansas State Parks in collaboration with Frontier Climbing Company, are opening the Petit Jean Via Ferrata, a guided mountain adventure at Petit Jean State Park. The via ferrata is currently the only via Ferrata located in a state park in the country.
A via ferrata, Italian for "iron way", is a protected climbing route where participants clip into a fixed steel cable and move along rungs, bridges, and ledges anchored to the mountain landscape. Built by Adventure Partners LLC., in conjunction with Wagner General Contractors, Inc., one of the nation's premier outdoor adventure companies, the via ferrata was curated with adventure and joy in mind for beginners to experts alike. The Petit Jean route runs approximately 0.45 miles along the north-facing cliff line below the Palisades Overlook and reaches more than 100 feet above the ground at its highest point. It features a suspension bridge, a foot bridge, a sky ladder, multiple single-line aerial sections, and a series of ledge traverses across ten named pitches — among them Diamondback Gulch, Maximum Exposure, The High Wire, Skywalker, and Westward Expansion.
Built in the Italian style, the route traverses across the cliff face rather than following a primarily vertical climbing line — a design that delivers dramatic exposure and sweeping views of Cedar Creek Valley without requiring sustained technical climbing. Its builders categorized the route a "blue square," similar to an intermediate rating used on ski slopes and mountain bike trails: challenging, but the route is within reach of those without prior rock climbing experience.
The via ferrata operates as a guided-only experience. Every trip is led by professionally trained guides from Frontier Climbing Company at a ratio of no more than five participants per guide, and every participant completes a practice section before going out on the route. Participants must be at least 12 years old.
"Our goal is to double Arkansas' outdoor economy and double what tourism returns to the state; attractions like this one are how we get there," said Shea Lewis, Secretary of Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. "When you're the only place in the country where you can do something special in a state park, people notice — and they come see it for themselves. What we have done is create more ways to explore our first State Park while welcoming families back again and again to try something new."
Petit Jean became Arkansas' first state park in 1923, and the mountain's scenery is widely credited with inspiring the creation of the state park system.
"This is a new, unique way to experience Petit Jean State Park and the perfect way for non-climbers to get out on the rocks and enjoy the views," Blane McClellan, Co-founder & Guide, Frontier Climbing Company. "Experienced climbers will also find this adventure to be challenging and very fulfilling." "This is a beautiful via ferrata course and we are thrilled to share this new adventure with park guests."
"We here at Adventure Partners Attractions are excited to have completed installation of the only via ferrata in a state park in the country." Jeremy Draper, Chief Operating Officer, Adventure Partners LLC. "This via ferrata is unique in its forested setting, with great views, and will challenge and inspire all who experience it!"
The via ferrata is the latest expansion of climbing access at Petit Jean, following the development of dedicated rock climbing routes at Seven Hollows in partnership with the Arkansas Parks and Recreation Foundation and the Arkansas Climbers Coalition.
Know Before You Go
- Guided trips available year-round, with morning and afternoon departures; hours vary by season
- Minimum age 12
- Participants must weigh between 88 and 265 pounds
- Reservations, pricing, and trip details are available at www.ArkansasStateParks.com/petitjean or directly through Frontier Climbing Company at www.frontierclimbingcompany.com
Arkansas State Parks: Arkansas State Parks is a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. Arkansas state parks and museums cover 55,006 acres of forest, wetlands, fish and wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation facilities, and unique historic and cultural resources. Established in 1923, Arkansas State Parks preserve special places for future generations, provide quality recreation and education opportunities, enhance the state's economy through tourism and provide leadership in resource conservation. Connect with ASP on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and visit ArkansasStateParks.com and ArkansasStateParks.com/media to learn more.
Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism: The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state's natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism.