Local professional climber and filmmaker Chad Heddleston scaled the Roanoke Star early Thursday (July 30) morning as part of a film project that will draw attention to Roanoke’s outdoor recreation opportunities. In the coming months, Heddleston will promote the Roanoke Star climb in a film he is producing. Heddleston will also appear on an episode of the podcast Climbing Gold with Alex Honnold scheduled for August 21.
Climbing on the Roanoke Star is not permitted without written permission from the City of Roanoke. City Council provided special one-time approval because of the unique opportunity to promote Roanoke’s outdoor recreation. Heddleston worked with City staff to develop a route that enabled him to ascend the star touching only the frame to avoid damaging the star’s electrical components.
Heddleston’s film crew documented his climb up Roanoke’s Mill Mountain Star and plans to produce a film about the experience.
“Heddleston’s extensive experience as a climber and filmmaker make him uniquely suited to safely climb the Star while promoting Roanoke as a premier outdoor adventure destination,” said Roanoke’s Economic Development Director Marc Nelson.
Although the Roanoke Star is not open for recreational climbing, the Roanoke Parks and Recreation Department offers occasional day trips to regional climbing areas and has a portable rock-climbing tower available for special events. Additionally, the City maintains more than 100 miles of trails and greenways, including destinations such as Mill Mountain and Carvins Cove and several Roanoke River access points, making Roanoke a hub for diverse outdoor opportunities.
