Guess what? You don't have to go to Switzerland to climb a via ferrata -- Italian for "way of iron." What makes climbing a via ferrata so appealing is that it opens up jaw-dropping terrain to people who want a climbing experience without years of training. You follow a protected climbing route built into mountain rock faces. The resulting experience is unforgettable. It includes a special harness and carabiner system to clip and unclip into the fixed cables. You experience the thrill of climbing in a safe and controlled manner.
Guess what else? There are via ferratas all over North America, including one fairly close to my farm in Virginia. It's called the NROCKS and you'll find it in the mountains of West Virginia. Here's a video of what it's like to experience this route.
Check out the unique panoramic views these climbers are getting while being securely anchored. I can attest from personal experience that this via ferrata is physically challenging but very rewarding. Every step forward takes you on an unforgettable journey. Here's a GoPro video of my climb here 8 years ago:
If you're the adventurous type, I think this would make a great honeymoon excursion or a climb you could do on an anniversary trip. Take your youth group there. Of you can climb it alone with your guide. Mine (Matthew) was amazing. This particular via ferrata includes an extra thrill in the form of a suspension bridge.
Clip in.
Climb high.
And soak in every moment.