Trip Recommender
Get it? I’d be impressed if you did! A via ferrata is a way to traverse across and up a cliff-face by walking across iron bars that have been inserted into the rock face. Via Ferrata is an Italian term that literally means ‘iron road’. Via Ferratas trace back to the 19th century, however, they are most famously known for their presence in World War I. Several Via Ferrata courses were built in the Italian Dolomite mountain region to help troops move throughout the rocky terrain. Fast forward a few years to when recreation-junkies caught wind of these protected climbing paths; There are now over 1,000 via ferratas in the world. You can find guided and unguided via ferrata courses across the globe, including North America, China, Africa, Iceland and more.
After booking a Via Ferrata, one can expect a fun and exhilarating adventure through the clouds while traversing the side of a mountain. Speed will be felt from the multiple zip-lines. Excitement, from the 70-foot rappel. Thrill, from traversing cliffside steps and suspension bridges. The journey will end with a new sense of wanderlust from the beauty of the mountains you just conquered.
You do not have to be a rock climber or alpinist to take on this adventure. However, there is some physical moves necessary to traverse this route. Some sections of the Via Ferrata require you to climb up iron rungs, much like a ladder. The adventure can also take up to 3.5 hours, so be sure that you are physically capable to keep moving for that long. There is a minimum age of 12 to go on the Via ferrata, so our young and future explores may have to what a few years before taking on this adventure. There is also a weight limit of 250 pounds.
Your assigned guide is there to guide you both physically and spiritually. Listen to their words of wisdom and they will keep you safe and ensure that you have the best experience possible. Water is key to our survival, and it is never fun to be thirsty while exploring. Feel free to bring a small pack with a water bottle and throw some snacks in there as well to keep your energy levels up!
All AVA via ferrata trips are guided by experienced guides who will walk you through the entire course. They will make sure you are using your gear properly and most importantly make sure you have a great time!
The tour can take up to 3 hours to complete. Time does depend on the size of the group, but think it is safe to allot a half of day for your via ferrata tour. That way you can pair it with another adventure or spend the afternoon relaxing!
Via Ferratas were first used during World War I as an alternative to rock climbing to scale a rock face. It may be an alternative to climbing, but you can expect to climb a bit during this tour. Most of the climbing will involve iron rungs mounted on the cliffs, making the route more accessible than a traditional rock climbing experience. You’ll still get to rappel down the cliffs just like a traditional rock climber. You’ll also receive a full orientation from your guides prior to venturing onto the Via Ferrata, so you’ll know exactly how to use your equipment.
From iron rungs and hanging bridges to cliffside trails, you’ll have a wide variety of features to navigate over the course of these tours. Your friendly guides will help you through each section of the Via Ferrata while providing any assistance you might need and plenty of entertainment.
We hope you are ready to push yourself to the edge, because both of these tours feature breathtaking free falls. You’ll walk out onto the bridge, hang your toes off the edge and step off. Feel the adrenaline rush of experiencing true free fall before our auto-belay system catches you and lowers you to the ground below. And not to worry, both Via Ferrata courses incorporate zipline into them as well so you won’t miss out on any aerial adventures.
Now set forth. Let the sun and clear skies be your guide through this beautiful world. And when your path crosses through the wonderful state of Colorado, reignite your sense of wonder and exploration within your soul by exploring one of AVA’s Via Ferratas!
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