A Guided Climbing Experience
Experience climbing the Via Ferrata – an exhilarating way to enjoy the thrill of mountain rock. The Peregrine Arete is our original ferrata route on Deville rocks and is still one of the most impressive in the country.
The Via Ferrata is a unique experience that falls somewhere between scrambling and technical rock climbing, something like a ropes course up a cliff. While it is physically demanding, the system of cables and ladders allow even non-experienced climbers to ascend the 600 foot tall cliff. All you need is to have good fitness and at least a passing ability to deal with heights.
Guests, accompanied by KMAC guides, are secured to the pathway system of anchored steel cables as they ascend using natural rock features, ladders, and steel steps. While you ascend, you’ll enjoy stunning vistas of Rocky Mountain National Park and the surrounding valley typically reserved for rock climbers!
Via Ferrata means “Iron Path,” originating from the metal ladders and cables used by mountain troops in WWI to ascend and traverse steep rock and mountain terrain. Via ferratas are an extremely popular sport in the European Alps and now you can experience that thrill here in Estes Park, Colorado!
The Peregrine Arete begins in a rocky gully on the side of the cliff, it traverses in and quickly gains elevation and exposure as the ground drops away. By design, the most physically demanding moves are at the very beginning to give an idea of what is to come. Soon we move into the super exposed “Hinterstoisser Traverse,” a wildly exposed section that gets hearts racing every time. After a fun steeper section we arrive at one of the best views in the world for a snack break. Once our heart rates drop back down we start the second half, the Peregrine Arete. This half isn’t as physically challenging, but it does offer amazing views in all directions as we follow the crest of the ridge, as high above the valley as it gets, all the way to the summit!
The Via Ferrata can be enjoyed by individuals, couples, families, and groups young and old. It’s the perfect way to share in a unique climbing adventure. We can even adjust the level of difficulty based on your adrenaline wishes! Please contact us if party members are below the age of 12 and we can program your outing to include them.
No previous rock climbing experience is necessary to ascend the Via Ferrata. Get this checked off your bucket list now and take the whole family!
Unfortunately, due to limitations on the lanyards that connect you to the Via Ferrata system, we cannot accept guests over 265 lbs.
How long does it take?
The approach hike takes about 45 minutes. An average Via Ferrata tour ranges from 2 to 5 hours depending on the group size, comfort at heights, and speed of ascent. We assume 5-6 hours from the time we meet until we are back at the office.
What time do we start?
Ascents leave every half-hour from 7:30am to 9:30am and we take sunset tours out at 3:00 and 4:00pm. Each slot is reserved for one group in an effort to give the best alpine mountain experience without crowds or groups on top of each other.
How safe is the Via Ferrata?
Like rock climbing, the Via Ferrata has inherent risks that are different from normal day to day living. KMAC works to minimize these risks through guide training and proper equipment management. That said, if Via Ferrata participants are attentive and focus on their respective responsibilities within the group the risks involved are very low, safer than driving we always say.
Can I get off the Via Ferrata once I’ve started the climb?
Yes. There are several escape points on the Via Feratta, should you decide you do not want to continue.
I’m scared of heights, should I climb the Via Ferrata?
If you have a general, healthy fear of heights you should be okay. If you are intensely scared of heights, this might not be the best activity for you, but you probably already knew that…
What do I wear?
Dress in layers so you can make adjustments as you warm up or cool down. In general wear comfy, loose-fitting clothing that does not restrict your movement. Most climbers prefer to wear pants or long shorts to keep their knees covered.
Can’t decide between the via ferrata and rock climbing? We can set this up as a full-day adventure, going up the via ferrata in the morning and climbing all afternoon! Give us a call and we can set it up!
