Via Ferrata

Guided Climbing Adventures

No Previous Experience Necessary

Challenge yourself with a guided climbing adventure on the rugged cliffs of Mammoth Mountain. Via Ferrata, which means “iron path,” is a network of climbing routes using steel cables, iron rungs and suspended bridges fixed to the rock that climbers are attached to for safety. With six different routes that progress in difficulty, Via Ferrata is the perfect alpine activity for families and individuals.

21/22 Ikon Pass Holders – Save 10% on Tours

BOOKINGS MUST BE MADE 2 DAYS IN ADVANCE BY CALLING 800.MAMMOTH. Reservations Required.

Private Tours

Conquer the Via Ferrata

Our Via Ferrata is located on the rugged cliffs below the Caldera Overlook adjacent to McCoy Station. Start your 3-hour morning or afternoon tour with a ride up the gondola to mid-mountain for a quick orientation. Your guide will then lead you on a short hike to the base of the Via Ferrata and determine the best climbing route(s) for you based on comfort and ability. Once you reach the top, you may downclimb or return to the bottom via the hiking trail.

Book your own private party of up to 4 climbers per tour. For parties of 5-8 climbers an additional tour must be booked. Participants must be at least 12 years old and meet the minimum weight requirement. Pricing is subject to change.

Private Guide for 1–2 People	Starts at $199
Each Additional Person	Starts at $79

Weight Restriction

All climbers must weigh 88–264 lbs (40–119 kg). Participants outside the weight limit who meet the age requirement will be considered if the guide is confident all safety equipment fits and works properly. The weight limit is set by the lanyard manufacturer.

Fitness Ability

No previous climbing experience is necessary, but all participants must meet a minimum, but reasonable fitness ability. If you are able to climb up a ladder a few times and walk on uneven terrain you should be able to participate.

What to Wear/Bring

All safety equipment is provided. Please bring sunscreen, snacks, a water bottle and sunglasses. We recommend wearing comfortable athletic wear and hiking or approach-style shoes. For your safety, climbers are not permitted to wear rings or dangling jewelry.

Pricing, Info & Restrictions

Multiple Routes for Maximum Fun

6 Routes that Progress in Difficulty

There are 3 easy, 2 moderate – joined by a suspension bridge – and 1 difficult route. Following your orientation, your guide will determine the best route(s) for you. The routes ascend 180 ft and span over 300 ft across the cliff band.

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Via Ferrata FAQs

What is Via Ferrata?

Via Ferrata is a mountaineering experience utilizing a steel cable, which runs along the climbing route and is periodically fixed to the rock every 3–30 ft. Using a Via Ferrata kit, climbers can secure themselves to the cable with modern climbing harnesses, thus limiting the chance of falling. The cable aids guests with ascending and safety, while additional climbing aids, such as iron rungs, pegs and a suspension bridge, provide excitement and control on this exhilarating mountain adventure.

Who can do it?

Anyone who meets our age, weight and minimal fitness requirements. No prior climbing experience is required to participate.

Where do I meet?

Groups should check in 20 minutes prior to your scheduled tour at the Adventure Center at Main Lodge. From there, you'll board the Panorama Gondola to McCoy Station (the gondola's mid-point) where you'll meet your guide.

Is a guide required?>

Yes, we have a guide accompany you on your adventure. We maintain a guide-to-guest ratio of 1:4

What should I wear and bring?

What time of year is this available?

The Via Ferrata typically operates seasonally June–September, weather and conditions permitting.

What about weather?

Weather events such as lightning, thunder, rain, or snow may cause closures or delays.

Can family accompany me to watch if they are not participating?

Family can purchase a Scenic Gondola Ride ticket to go observe from the hiking trail below the cliff. Family may not pass the guide access closure, and may not stage at the top of the cliff, as they could inadvertently dislodge hazards causing injury or death to those below.

How many routes will I get to climb?

Your guide will determine what routes will be climbed based on the comfort and ability of the whole group. As time and ability allow, multiple routes can be attempted within the 3-hour tour time.

What equipment do you supply?

All safety equipment (harness and lanyards and helmet).

Can I bring my own equipment?

You must use safety equipment (harness, lanyard, and helmet) provided by Mammoth Mountain.

Can I bring a camera?

Cell phones and cameras are not permitted for use during your climbing experience but may be secured in your backpack.

Can I go on the Via Ferrata without a ticket or guide?

Access on all Via Ferrata routes must be accompanied by a Mammoth Mountain-authorized guide. Unaccompanied use of the Via Ferrata is considered illegal and subject to prosecution under penal code section 537(a), and can pose a serious threat to yourself and others.

I am an AMGA guide or equivalent. Can I guide my own party?

A Mammoth Mountain employed guide must accompany all tours.

Can I fall?

Yes, you can. Your lanyards are attached to a steel cable parallel to the climbing route, which will arrest your fall. The Via Ferrata is designed to reduce the probability of falling and minimize the risks sustained in a fall.

Can I stop mid-way and turn around?

Your guide will customize your experience to match your preferred intensity level. There are connector trails to exit the Via Ferrata from the bottom and top of our routes. If there is an unusual mid-route circumstance, the guide can always add security by providing an additional rope (top-rope-belay). A participant can also climb down from any point on all the routes. Via Ferratas can be used to climb both up and down.