What does Via Ferrata mean?
So, what is Via Ferrata, and what does it mean? A Via Ferrata (also known as Klettersteig) is a walk or climb which incorporates anything from metal rungs, ladders and bridges to a permanently fixed safety wire. The “iron path” or “way of steel” classically allows safe and comparatively straightforward progress through otherwise awkward, challenging or inaccessible terrain.
Origins in Klettersteig (climbing path)
In 1869, Johann Stüdl arranged for fixed ropes to be laid as protection for tourists wanting to climb the southwest ridge of the Großglockner: the highest mountain in Austria. As alpine tourism grew in popularity, routes followed everywhere, from the highest peak in Germany to one of the most iconic peaks in the French Pyrenees.
Via Ferrata and the Dolomites
Although routes can be found worldwide, Via Ferrata are commonly identified with the towering limestone spires in the Italian Dolomites. Early classics date to before the First World War, but between 1915 and 1917, warring Italian and Austrian forces set up many more to establish, maintain and retain observation posts and field guns. High level, multi-day traverses followed and today, the Dolomites offers an incredible array of options, from simple walks to easily accessible “challenge” routes set up more like an adventure playground.
What does Via Ferrata involve?
If a route has a safety wire, it is usually for a good reason! As a rule, safety wires run continuously from the start of the route to the finish and are bolted to the rock at regular intervals. Climbers attach themselves to the wire with lanyards known as “cow-tails”, which must be moved from section to section.
Everything else about a Via Ferrata depends on the route. Some involve little more than walking and ladder climbing. Others involve lots of scrambling and maybe some rock-climbing techniques. How Stean Gorge’s Via Ferrata also involves walking on wires, dangling off wires and abseiling.
What equipment is required for Via Ferrata?
Different Via Ferrata routes require different kinds of equipment and clothing, and Via Ferrata safety equipment can include but is not limited to:
- A climbing harness.
- A helmet to protect you from falling rocks or bumping your head while climbing.
- A Via Ferrata lanyard (or “cow-tail”) and two carabiners as part of your Via Ferrata set.
- Sturdy, flexible footwear.
- Gloves to protect your hands from rope burn and friction against the rock and provide a strong grip on the steel cables and mountain hooks in cold weather.
- Other specialist climbing or mountaineering equipment.
At How Stean Gorge, our instructors carry ropes, pulleys and more so they can perform rescues if the need ever arises or, more likely, pass on some more advanced skills. We also have staff who can train you in rope techniques for Via Ferrata!
What to wear for Via Ferrata?
Depending on the time of year you climb, a short or long sleeve shirt may be appropriate. We suggest layering up in light, breathable outdoor clothing in cold or wet weather and a thin protective layer during the heat. Suitable walking or sports trousers or shorts are also a sensible idea.
When is the best time to do Via Ferrata?
Usually, spring, summer or autumn are the best times of year to complete a Via Ferrata course to avoid cold, slippery and dangerous conditions.
Who can do Via Ferrata?
Via Ferrata is an accessible activity suitable for groups, couples, adults and children, and we have a minimum height requirement of 140cm (4’6”) and a minimum age of seven. At How Stean Gorge, we provide all the essential Via Ferrata safety equipment you will need, including a climbing safety harness and a helmet.
How difficult is Via Ferrata?
Via Ferrata difficulty varies on route and location. For example, a different scale is used in Italy, Austria, Germany, and France to assess the difficulty level of each route. However, the Italian scale is generally adopted as the international standard. At How Stean Gorge, our route is very accessible.
Is Via Ferrata dangerous?
The experience can be dangerous if you fall and can result in minimal to serious injuries. Therefore, it is important that you listen to your safety briefing, use the equipment properly, and follow your guide’s instructions. Your Via Ferrata safety equipment (lanyards and carabiners) is strong and will catch you if you fall.
Do I need a guide?
Unless you are an experienced rock climber or Via Ferrata specialist, you should take your experience with a guide. A guide will teach you basic Ferrata techniques and keep you safe, as they have expert local knowledge and experience. However, at How Stean Gorge, we provide a Learn to Via Ferrata full day course aimed at adults who want to become self-sufficient on introductory Via Ferrata courses. The course will help you to learn the correct techniques and knowledge to complete a basic course, similar to those in Southern France, for example.
Best places to do Via Ferrata
There are several amazing Via Ferrata experiences across the world. The sport is often associated with Italy, France, Austria and Germany, but there are courses in Kenya and the USA too! However, you don’t have to travel far when you can try it out right here at How Stean Gorge in Yorkshire!
How many Via Ferrata are in the UK?
There are three Via Ferrata in the UK: here at How Stean Gorge in Yorkshire, Honister Slate Mine in the Lake District and one in Kinlochleven, Scotland.
If you’re looking for practice before heading to a course abroad or simply want to extend your climbing skills to something thrilling and different, our Via Ferrata Climbing Course involves a whole day of familiarising yourself with all the sport involves. We’ve catered for all abilities with our high wire adventure, allowing visitors to climb along our gorge – including right beneath our café! So, families and children can give it a go too!
If Via Ferrata sounds like something you want to try, get in touch to find out about booking with us! We have a full-day or half-day course available as part of our ‘big 5’ multi-outdoor activity day package suitable for residentials, school trips, corporate team bonding, and family days out.
