DolomiteSport Via Ferrata

Climber on the Dolomites Via Ferrata Tomaselli

Via Ferrata

A Via Ferrata is a climbing route with fixed cables, ladders and foot rungs. The name means Iron Way and comes from World War I when the military built them to get troops in place up high on rock walls. Today they are used by people wanting to climb without having to use ropes or climbing gear. Doing a Via Ferrata does not require anywhere near the same skill or fitness as actual climbing, but it is still risky. This site is not meant to tech you how to do them, only to introduce the sport as an option while visiting the Dolomites.

The Via Ferrate of the European Alps offer North American visitors an incredibly unique experience. They provide opportunities to get into positions usually reserved for rock climbers. Exposure, vertical terrain, and airy ridges all characterize the Via Ferrata experience. But in the Dolomites there is an added component unique to the sport. Many of the most classic Ferrate were originally built during World War I and served as frontline posts from which to fight. Today, these same lines can be done with modern fixed cables and ladders. But in place are many of the original cables, living areas, tunnels, gun turrets and barbed wire. It is a trip back in time. Look around and you’ll discover lead bullets often littering the ground.

One of the finest Via Ferrata to do, in our opinion, is the “Lipella” on the Tofana di Rozes, one of the Dolomite’s highest peaks. While it is also one of the more difficult Ferratas, it is more difficult due to the length than the actual climbing. It is not just our favorite but also considered by many to be the best in Italy.

If you are a road cyclist visiting the Dolomites, the Tofana is the massive peak you have stared at while riding either the Passo Falzarego or Passo Giau. To think of climbing its steep side is not likely unless you are an actual rock climber, but the existence of a Via Ferrata opens up the possibility for the non-climber to safely do it.

Via Ferrata Online Information

The Planet Mountain website has extensive information on many of the best routes, including pdf’s with details. Visit Planet Mountain and type Via Ferrata into their search field. The “Lipella” and “Tomaselli” Via Ferrate are our favorites.

UIAGM Mountain Guides

If you prefer an actual guide to take you up a Via Ferrata for the first time (advisable if you have never climbed or are concerned about the exposure and weather), then we suggest contacting our partners at the Dolomite Tour Operator Service for Mountain Sports : Holimites

Mountain guides in Europe offer more than just a secure journey through the mountains. They will also explain the history of the area, know many not so obvious tidbits of info, and make your overall experience that much better.

The weather in the Dolomites changes quickly, what starts out as a warm summer day can quickly turn into a frightening lightening show. No big deal when trail running or cycling, but when climbing on a steep wall things are more serious. Their job is to keep you from getting into that situation in the first place, but if it does occur, your guide will get you down and enjoying the storm from the great indoors. To return to wherever home is with a Via Ferrata memory is a great bonus.

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When building your itinerary and booking services, such as hotels, guides or huts – please utilize our DolomiteSport Network which offers a handpicked selection of what we know to be some of the finest services, accommodations and resources in the Italian Dolomites.

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