Via Ferratas Challenge All Ages Inside The Ropes Of U.S. Resorts
Any via ferrata route requires hard rock, sheer cliffs and secure footing that simulate the danger and the rush of real rock climbing without risking life and limb.
That's why thrill-seekers can find these "iron ways" hooked into granite faces inside the boundaries at five U.S. resorts that skiers and snowboarders associated with exposed cliffs and steep drops. Cables, steps, pegs and ladders provide “protection” climbing routes, allowing newby climbers to hook in and safely ascend where experienced "rock jocks" would insert temporary nuts, hexes and chocks on their own. Reservations required for guided tours from 90 minutes to six hours, and several include high-wire suspension bridges.
Arapahoe Basin lays claim to the highest via ferrata on the continent. A chairlift and ATV ride gets you to the start at 11,800 feet on the sheer East Wall. From there, climbers choose a long climb to the 13,000-foot top ridge or a shorter alternative to an old mine site.
At Jackson Hole, some 17 via ferrata routes take off from the top of the Bridger Gondola in Casper Bowl. A practice climb precedes half- and full-day ascents ranging from introductory to most difficult along 500-foot vertical cliff.
Known for its steep and deep in the winter, Taos Ski Valley is a natural for a via ferrata in the summer. Set at 11,500 feet, beginner and intermediate climbing routes run across the main face of Kachina Bowl, while more advanced climbs take on the precipitous K Chutes and include a 50-foot cable walk.
In California, the iconic Tram Face at Palisades Tahoe provides the perfect blend of cliffs and access for its via ferrata. After a four-wheel ride up, climbers in group and private tours head up a lower loop before selecting three- or four-hour tours on the upper face. Highest route tops out at summit of Tram Face.
In the eastern Sierra, Mammoth Mountain's via ferrata begins after a ride up the Panorama Gondola to McCoy Station. From there, six routes of varying difficulty head up the Caldera Overlook cliffs for group and private tours -- including several beginner routes for kids and wary adults.
Also at North American resorts are via ferratas at Kicking Horse and Mount Norquay in British Columbia.
