Top Via Ferratas In The World

Looking for a thrilling adventure that combines the best of rock climbing and hiking? Look no further than via ferratas! A via ferrata (Italian for “iron path”) is a protected climbing route that uses a series of fixed cables, ladders, and steps to make vertical terrain more accessible. These adrenaline-pumping courses offer the chance to scale some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes, from the soaring peaks of the Alps to the rugged canyons of the American West. So whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or just looking for a new way to explore the great outdoors, join us as we explore some of the best via ferratas in the world, from Europe to the United States to Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Are you ready? Let’s check them out!

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Donnerkogel Ladder To Heaven Via Ferrata, Austria

Photo by k5hu on Pexels IStock

Oh boy, have we got a treat for you up first! If you’re looking for an epic via ferrata experience that’ll leave you feeling like you’ve climbed to the heavens themselves, look no further than the Donnerkogel Ladder to Heaven via ferrata in Austria. This hair-raising route takes you up the sheer rock face of the Donnerkogel mountain, using a series of ladders, cable bridges, and iron rungs to guide you along the way. With stunning views of the Dachstein massif and the Gosaukamm range, this via ferrata offers an unforgettable adventure that’s not for the faint of heart. So strap on your helmet and harness, and get ready to climb to new heights on the Donnerkogel Ladder to Heaven via ferrata!

Goscheneralp Via Feratta, Switzerland 

Photo by olli0815 on Pexels IStock

Next up we have the Goscheneralp via ferrata in Switzerland, what a thrill! Located in the heart of the Swiss Alps, this via ferrata offers an exhilarating adventure that will leave you breathless (in the best possible way). Starting from the stunning Goscheneralp reservoir, the route takes you up a series of steep cliffs and narrow ledges, with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. But don’t worry, you’ll be secured at all times with the help of fixed cables and iron rungs, making this route accessible even to less experienced climbers. One of the highlights of the Goscheneralp via ferrata is the 230 foot long suspension bridge, which spans a deep chasm and offers a truly thrilling experience.

 The Dolomites Via Ferrata, Italy

Italy’s Dolomites via ferrata is an absolute gem for thrill-seekers and mountain lovers alike! Located in the northeastern part of Italy, this via ferrata route offers a unique and challenging experience through the rugged and dramatic peaks of the Dolomites. With its impressive rock formations, stunning views, and a variety of routes for all skill levels, it’s no wonder that the Dolomites via ferrata is one of the most popular climbing destinations in the world.

From the Cinque Torri massif to the Tofana di Rozes peak, the Dolomites via ferrata offers an array of stunning routes that will test your skills and endurance. The iconic via ferrata delle Trincee, for example, takes you along the trenches and tunnels of World War I, offering a historical and adrenaline-fueled experience like no other. And if you’re looking for a more challenging climb, the via ferrata delle Marmolada will take you to the highest point in the Dolomites, with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.

Via Ferrata des Evettes – La Flégère Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France

Photo by Subbotsky on Pexels IStock

Climb the stunning Via Ferrata des Evettes – La Flégère Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.  This climb offers a fun and challenging adventure with stunning views. You can opt to book a tour or hire your own equipment from one of the many local intersport stores in town. You can either take the Flegere lift and walk 20 minutes to the climbing spot from there or hike all the way from Chamonix which is about 2 hours uphill on a ski slope. This Via Ferrata is suitable for teenagers but not kids. There are two awesome bridges to cross as well however, there is an exit before it if you wish to pass on that section. One of the bridges is a 165 foot/50 meter Himalayan bridge(swinging suspension). Here at Tripio, we say go for the adventure! To complete the course itself takes around 2 hours. This is a must do for all adventurers, the Flegere lift is open from June to September. The climbing route itself is free however, you will have to pay for the Flegere lift pass, any equipment you hire along with if you hire a mountain guide. 

Telluride Via Ferrata, USA

Photo by @swanies_adventures on IG

The Telluride Via Ferrata is one of the most spectacular Via Ferratas in North America. This Via Ferrata route follows a series of ledges and cliffs along the side of the mountains, with views of the town of Telluride and the surrounding peaks. The climb is rated as a moderate to difficult level of difficulty, with several exposed sections that require climbers to use their hands and feet to traverse the terrain while secured to the safety cable system.

The climb starts at the top of Bridal Veil Falls, which is one of the highest waterfalls in Colorado, and ascends to a height of approximately 11,000 feet. The entire route takes approximately 3-4 hours to complete, depending on the speed and experience of the climber. Along the way, climbers will encounter several suspension bridges, ladders, and other obstacles that add to the excitement of the climb. What an experience.

Honister Via Ferrata, UK

Photo by @danbleside on IG

The Honister Via Ferrata follows the exposed and rugged terrain of the Honister Pass, with sections of vertical and horizontal climbing that are designed to challenge and thrill climbers. The climb starts at the Honister Slate Mine and ascends to a height of approximately 1,000 feet (305 meters), with scenic views of the surrounding landscape throughout the climb. Along the way, climbers will encounter several ladders, wire. bridges, and other obstacles. This area is also home to England’s last working slate mine. Therefore, you can explore it on an underground tour after completing the via ferrata. Who knew this existed in the UK, we at Tripio sure did!

Chang Kong Via Ferrata, China

The Chang Kong via ferrata in China is located in the stunning Zhangjiajie National Forest Park.  This via ferrata offers a unique and breathtaking experience through one of China’s most iconic natural wonders. With its towering sandstone pillars, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls, the Zhangjiajie park is truly a sight to behold.

The Chang Kong via ferrata is a thrilling and challenging route that takes you up and across the park’s famous karst peaks, with dizzying views of the surrounding landscape. The route features a combination of vertical climbs, cable bridges, and iron ladders that will test your strength, endurance, and nerves. But the rewards are well worth the effort, as you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of the park’s stunning rock formations and valleys.

One of the highlights of the Chang Kong via ferrata is the famous “sky ladder”, a 200 foot vertical climb that leads to a suspended platform with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. This heart-pumping climb is not for the faint of heart, but for those who are up to the challenge, it’s an unforgettable experience.

Aletsch Via Ferrata, Switzerland

Photo by @anielaeddy on IG

The Klettersteig Aletsch Via Ferrata is a fantastic climbing route located in the Swiss Alps. The route follows the rugged terrain of the Aletsch Glacier and features several sections with ladders, cable bridges, and other obstacles that are designed to challenge and thrill climbers. 

What makes the Klettersteig Aletsch Via Ferrata unique is its location on the Aletsch Glacier, which is the largest glacier in the Alps and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climbers get to experience the beauty of the glacier up close while navigating the thrilling climbing route. Along the way, climbers will encounter stunning ice formations, crevasses, and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The climb starts at an elevation of approximately 9,843 feet (3,000 meters) and ascends to a height of approximately 11,483 feet (3,500 meters).

Nelson Rocks Via Ferrata, USA

Photo by @mattholliday14 on IG

Hold on tight, because the Via Ferrata Climbing at Nelson Rocks in West Virginia is an adventure you won’t soon forget! Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, this via ferrata offers a unique and exciting way to experience the rugged beauty of West Virginia’s wilderness.

The route starts from the Nelson Rocks Outdoor Center and takes you up a series of towering cliffs and rock faces, using a combination of fixed cables, iron rungs, and suspension bridges to guide you along the way. With stunning views of the surrounding forests and valleys, the Nelson Rocks via ferrata offers an immersive and exhilarating experience that will leave you feeling alive and invigorated. You guessed it, this Via Ferrata also features a 200 foot long suspension bridge!

Via Ferrata El Chorro, Spain 

Photo by @thebetawoman on IG

If you’re looking for a via ferrata adventure in Spain, the Vía Ferrata El Chorro should be at the top of your list! Located in the stunning El Chorro Gorge near Malaga, this via ferrata offers a thrilling and scenic route through some of Spain’s most iconic natural landscapes.

The El Chorro via ferrata is suitable for climbers of all levels, with different routes available to cater to different skill levels. It features iron rungs, cable bridges, vertical climbs, and of course a 100 foot long suspension bridge. 

Lake Garda Via Ferrata, Italy

Photo by @juliav.93 on IG

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure on the Via Ferrata Fausto Susatti, located on the beautiful Lake Garda in northern Italy. This via ferrata is named after a legendary Italian climber who dedicated his life to exploring the mountains and pushing the limits of what’s possible.

The Fausto Susatti via ferrata offers a challenging and rewarding climb that takes you up the side of Monte Casale, one of the highest peaks in the region. The route features a series of iron rungs, cables, and ladders that will guide you along the way, with stunning views of Lake Garda and the surrounding mountains at every turn.

One of the highlights of the Fausto Susatti via ferrata is the “catwalk”, a narrow and exposed traverse that winds along the face of the mountain. With nothing but the cable to hold onto, you’ll feel like you’re walking on air as you make your way across this breathtaking section of the climb.

Jebel Jais Via Gerrata, UAE

Jebel Jais Via Ferrata is a Via Ferrata route that follows the rocky terrain of the Jebel Jais mountain range and features several sections with ladders, bridges, and other obstacles that are designed to challenge and thrill climbers. The climb is rated as a moderate to difficult level of difficulty, with several exposed sections that require climbers to use their hands and feet to traverse the terrain while secured to the safety cable system.

The climb starts at an elevation of approximately 1,934 feet (590 meters) and ascends to a height of approximately 3,608 feet (1,100 meters). The entire route takes approximately 3-4 hours to complete, depending on the speed and experience of the climber.

Via Ferrata Monte Albano, Italy

Photo by @juliav.93 on IG

Located in the heart of Tuscany, Italy, the Via Ferrata Monte Albano is an amazing adventure that combines breathtaking views with thrilling climbs. The route takes you up the rugged cliffs of Monte Albano, with spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and the ancient city of Florence.

The Monte Albano via ferrata is suitable for climbers of all levels, with different routes available to cater to different skill levels. It features iron rungs, cables, and ladders that will take you up to the peak of the mountain, offering panoramic views of the Tuscan landscape along the way.

One of the highlights of the Monte Albano via ferrata is the “bridge of the gods”, a 150 foot long suspension bridge that spans a deep ravine. This vertigo-inducing bridge offers a thrilling challenge for even the most experienced climbers

Via Ferrata Cala Del Molí, Spain

Photo by @timea.sarina on IG

Located in the stunning Costa Brava region of Spain, the Via Ferrata Cala del Molí offers an exhilarating climb along the rugged coastline of the Mediterranean Sea. 

The climb starts at the Cala del Molí beach and takes you up the cliffs overlooking the sea, with breathtaking views of the coastline and crystal-clear waters below. The route features a series of iron rungs, cables, and ladders that will guide you along the way, with the occasional steep and exposed section to add to the challenge.

One of the highlights of the Cala del Molí via ferrata is the “airplane wing”, a narrow and exposed traverse that takes you across the face of the cliff with nothing but the cable to hold onto. This thrilling section of the climb offers stunning views of the sea below and will test your nerves as you make your way across.

Mount Kenya Via Ferrata, Kenya

Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime with the Mount Kenya Via Ferrata! Located in Kenya, this via ferrata offers a unique opportunity to climb one of Africa’s highest peaks in a safe and exciting way.

The Mount Kenya Via Ferrata takes you up the rocky face of Point Lenana, the third-highest peak of Mount Kenya. The route is equipped with a series of ladders, rungs, and cables that make it possible for even inexperienced climbers to ascend to the summit.

As you climb, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the lush forests and rugged peaks of Mount Kenya. The climb is challenging but not overly difficult, and there are plenty of opportunities to take breaks and enjoy the stunning scenery along the way.

One of the highlights of the Mount Kenya Via Ferrata is the “Tyrolean Traverse”, a thrilling section of the climb where you’ll traverse across a wide gap between two cliffs, suspended in mid-air by a cable. This section of the climb is sure to get your heart racing and is an experience you won’t soon forget!

After exploring some of the world’s most amazing via ferratas, it’s clear that these thrilling climbing routes offer a unique opportunity to experience some of the most breathtaking landscapes on earth in a safe and exciting way. From the rugged peaks of the Dolomites to the stunning coastline of Spain and beyond, via ferratas offer an unforgettable way to explore the world’s most beautiful places. Whether you’re an experienced climber or a first-time adventurer, there’s a via ferrata out there that’s perfect for you. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s grab our gear and start exploring the best via ferratas in the world!

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–Written by Gemma Winchester, Tripio Guru

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