Via Ferratas have been around since World War I. But they have become popular in the United States in recent years. The state of Colorado has seen several new via ferrata routes pop up throughout their mountain regions just in the past couple of years. I only stumbled across these a couple of years ago when my sister took her husband on one for an anniversary trip. Then this summer I had the opportunity to try out the via ferrata at Royal Gorge Bridge and Park myself. What an exhilarating experience!
You get to challenge yourself to climb a unimaginably steep cliff with the most amazing views. But in the safety of a full body harness and steel cables.
A via ferrata is an incredible climbing route consisting of solid and durable cables that make it possible for people to scale some of the most enormous and most amazing mountains worldwide. Many people go on these protected climbing adventures to enjoy a thrilling experience that requires stamina, patience, and skill.
Some of the via ferratas are more challenging than others, making them better for skilled and experienced climbers. However, there are options worldwide that are suitable enough for beginners to try. If you’d like experience some of the most incredible ferratas while you’re traveling, consider some of these options found in different places around the world.
I have to say, I would even consider planning trips around via ferrata routes. After all, they tend to be located on some of the most stunning mountain ranges in the world.
Unique Via Ferratas Around the World
While there are dozens of via ferratas around the world, this list includes some of the best options. So whether you want to stay in the United States or head out on a journey to visit a different country and experience the via ferrata it offers, there are plenty of great places to go.
The Dolomites
The Dolomites is one of the most thrilling via ferratas offered in Italy. The protected path leaves climbers on the journey of a lifetime with stunning views from thousands of meters above ground level. Enjoy the view of the Dolomites mountains while on a steep climb that isn’t for the fainthearted.
However, if you’re a skilled climber looking for a challenger, this is an excellent via Ferrata worth trying. You can head out on the journey with a professional tour guide who will assist you throughout the climb.
Decide if you’d like to take the shorter path or the long journey, depending on how long you think you can withstand climbing on the mountainside. The views from these mountains are freshing and breathtaking, leaving you in awe of the experience as soon as you get started.
Telluride
If you prefer to find a via Ferrata in the United States, Telluride is an excellent choice. You can find the via ferrata in Telluride, Colorado, a place known for its natural beauty. If you want to experience the mountains, rolling hills, and incredible weather while on a climbing adventure, this via Ferrata is a must.
You can find three trafficked loop trails while on your journey. Each of these trails is modest. Even if you don’t have a lot of experience with climbing, you can still find joy in this journey, especially with help from a guide. However, those with more experience tend to do exceptionally well on this via Ferrata, handling all terrain types that come their way while they’re on the go.
Mount Kenya
When you want to experience the tallest via Ferrata in the world, you need to book a trip to Kenya for an unforgettable experience on Mount Kenya. While on the journey, you will find yourself 12,500 feet above sea level with a stunning view of the mountain, sky, and scenery below.
It is an indescribable experience that leaves you with butterflies in your stomach as you maneuver around on the protected climbing route. Make sure you’re getting some experience before you attempt this journey.
When you reach such a high altitude, the air becomes thin, and some people experience headaches. It’s good to know what you’re doing and have a guide available with you to keep you calm on the journey. It’s a wild adventure, but it’s worth it when you have a passion for climbing.
Royal Gorge
With 1,200 foot cliffs up two sides of a spectacular gorge with a bridge connecting the two sides, the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is the ideal location for a Via Ferrata.
Guests must be at least 10 years old to take this tour. The tour includes all of your equipment as well as a certified guide. Equipment not only includes your harness and helmet, but also sticky shoes. Don’t pass these up. They truly help your feet grab the sides of the cliff.
When you book a Via Feratta tour at Royal Gorge, your ticket tour does include admission to the Royal Gorge Park and Bridge both the day of your tour and the following day if you would like to return. The park itself is well worth exploring. There’s plenty to see and do.
Insider Tip: Royal Gorge and Canon City Colorado are well worth a long weekend trip. It is beautiful and there are plenty of other adventures to enjoy in the region.
Sacred Valley
When you want to enjoy the most beautiful views in the world, a trip to Peru is to experience the Sacred Valley via Ferrata. It is an incredible climbing experience that gives you time to climb the mountain and zipline down when you’re through with it. You can find seven different lines attached to the mountain that can lead you back to ground level.
After spending quite a bit of time outside while climbing the mountain, it only makes sense to take the easy way down on a zipline. It’s a great way to take in all the scenery that Peru has to offer. If you’ve never been, you’re going to be amazed by the beautiful trees, mountains, and plants that you can see on this via Ferrata.
How to Get Yourself Ready for a Via Ferrata
There are a few things you need to know before you head out on a via Ferrata journey. First, no matter how moderate or advanced it may be, you need to take steps to ensure that you’re keeping yourself safe and protected before you get started.
Hire a Guide
Either take a via ferrata route that includes a guide or hire one. This helps ensure your safety and also makes it a more fun experience. And, when you arrange a tour the guide will provide appropriate via ferrata equipment.
Wear Comfortable Clothes
Don’t go out in anything that doesn’t make you feel comfortable. Wear lightweight, breathable clothes that keep you feeling good while on your journey. Some people like to wear long sleeves, despite the high temperature, because it protects them from the sun.
Apply Sunscreen
If you’re out in the sun for hours on end while scaling a mountain, you can expect the sun to have a negative impact on your skin. If you don’t want to experience the discomfort of sunburn, apply a generous amount of sunscreen to your face and body to keep it protected.
Wear the Right Gloves
You can increase your comfort and enhance the overall experience by wearing the proper protective gloves on your hands. Choose fingerless gloves with extra padding to enjoy the comfort and support while you’re climbing. In addition, it puts less of a toll on your hands, making it easier for you to get up, down, and around.
Visit Some of the Most Amazing Via Ferratas
So, what are you waiting for? There are several amazing via ferratas found in many countries, including the United States, Peru, Italy, and Kenya. If you’d like to experience some of these climbing adventures, where you can test your limits, enjoy the thrill, and take advantage of the incredible views, it’s an excellent time to book your trip. You can head out on these journeys with an experienced tour guide who will help you get through even the most challenging obstacles.
