Rappelling at Messamore

Join the Co-op as we rappel Messamore Cliffs, possibly the tallest cliffs in Indiana. Afterwards, stick around to practice other vertical ropework.

Since there's no formal parking at the cliffs, please carpool so we can fit into a small roadside pull-off on Old Felkner Road. From the crest of the hill, we'll take a moderate off-trail hike down through an unkempt meadow and back up through the woods to reach the cliffs.

Once at the cliffs, there are ladders to get from the bottom to top. No need to do any rock climbing!

• Hike Distance: approx. 2/3 mile to rappell zone from parking
• Hike Difficulty: Moderate (all off trail)
• Rappel Height: 105ft

Who Should Join?

This is a learning event. Anyone interested is welcome to join. We'll discuss the Frog System, rigging, gear selection, and safe ropework practices. Come ready to learn and rappel!

What to Bring for Rappelling

• Helmet and gloves (required, no exceptions). (A bicycle helmet will do)
• Knee Pads (if you have them)
• Any climbing gear you might own.

Standard Day Hiking Gear

• Sturdy shoes for hiking
• Day Bag
• Water (for drinking) and snacks
• Packed lunch (eaten on trail)
• Sunscreen and Bug spray
• Clean shoes for the car ride (leave in the car)

Schedule

ALL TIMES LISTED IN CST

• 9:05 - Meet at Marathon (I-64 & IN-37, exit 79) to consolidate vehicles.
• 9:30 - Arrive at Old Felkner Rd pulloff.

... the rest is played by ear! We're talking about visiting Hemlock Cliffs afterward if we have time and energy.

Notes

• If you're new to rappelling, this is a great opportunity to learn some basics in a low-stakes environment. If you don't already own gear, you're still welcome to join us. We'll be happy to let you try out our equipment, but at minimum, you need to bring a helmet and gloves.
• Those only rappelling (not ascending) will use an auto-locking GriGri+ as their descender.
• We'll also be practicing the frog system and Alpine SRT methods afterwards if we have time, possibly at Hemlock Cliffs or Buff Boulders nearby.

Ground Rules

• Leave no trace, and pack out all your trash.
• No children.
• No pets.
• Helmet required near any rappel zone.

Maps / Information

• Rendezvous Point at I-64/IN-37 (Exit 79) (Google Maps):
  https://maps.app.goo.gl/aZKaQMQNc9fChLoU7
• Parking near Cliffs (Google Maps): https://maps.app.goo.gl/Qq7hJg4QW8H8tjp37

Disclaimer: The Co-op and its associates do not serve as certified trainers. Participants accept full responsibility for their own safety and any risks associated with rappelling and vertical techniques.