By DREW PARKER
Wheeling News-Register
MOUNDSVILLE, W.Va. – Grand Vue Park is taking the next step in its goal to be the best outdoor thrill in the Ohio Valley.
The Moundsville-based park will premier its “Aerial Adventure” course from noon to 7 p.m. today. During the day, visitors can experience the new high ropes course equipped with several obstacles, rock climbing tower, “mega jump,” giant swing, and trampoline along with Grand Vue’s existing zipline and more.
According to park manager Craig White, special all-day passes with be available in conjunction with the annual Wind Festival also held at the park. Following today’s grand opening, the attractions will operate from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays until school dismisses in June. It will then include weekday group activities along with the weekend hours.
The park’s first restaurant, Trailhead Grille – featuring local Mason Dixon barbecue – will also open today. It will operate seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and will be located at the former golf course clubhouse.
White added many of the new attractions have less strict weight limits than the park’s zipline, allowing more children to participate. The Aerial Adventure will welcome children ages 7 and up who pass waiver guidelines and weight limits. Parental guidance is required for participants under 14.
“This is going to now become the most affordable fun opportunity within an hour drive,” White said. “I know a lot of people from this area go to Kennywood a lot. This is an entirely different experience for ages 7 and up to enjoy.”
According to Aerial Adventure guide Doug Gouldsberry, the course isn’t overly challenging, but can be a bit intimidating.
“It’s really rewarding to watch people come through and help conquer their fears,” he said. “It takes some bravery to step off that platform.”
Area leaders met with Grand Vue staff Friday for a ribbon cutting ceremony and exclusive first look at the additions. Marshall County Commission President Stanley Stewart said the new attractions will spark interest in the Moundsville are and beyond.
“Needless to say, we’re very excited about the additions. Craig White and Rick Vargo have done an excellent job organizing the new direction,” Stewart said. “This will create excitement not just here in Moundsville and Marshall County, but it will be an attraction for the entire valley. The commission is happy to support it in any way we can to attract people to Marshall County and support the efforts they’re making.”
Jesse Mestrovic, executive director of the Greater Moundsville Convention and Visitors Bureau, said updating the park brings in thousands of tourists looking for thrills.
“This is a great addition to an already-popular attraction,” Mestrovic said. “We hope it will get more outdoor adventure enthusiasts to come to the valley.”
