Two women climbing the Via Ferrata on the cliffs off Mammoth Mountain

Via Ferrata

Via Ferrata is closed for the season.
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Guided Climbing Adventures

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.

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Hours
WednesdayClosed
ThursdayClosed
FridayClosed
SaturdayClosed
SundayClosed
MondayClosed
Address
Via Ferrata10001 Minaret Rd #405Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546See on map
Guide and client on top of Mammoth Mountain's Via Ferrata

Private & Group 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 private tour or 90 minute group tour at the Adventure Center before riding the Panorama Gondola up to McCoy Station 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.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Groups should check in 20 minutes prior to your scheduled tour at the Adventure Center at Main Lodge to sign liability forms and pick up a Gondola ticket. From there, you'll take the Panorama Gondola to McCoy Station (the gondola's mid-point) where you'll meet your guide.

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.


ARE THERE ANY AGE, WEIGHT, OR FITNESS REQUIREMENTS?

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


Age: Participants must be at least 12 years old and meet the minimum weight requirement.
Weight Restriction: All climbers must weigh 88–264 lbs (40–119 kg). 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.



IS A GUIDE REQUIRED?

Yes, we have a guide accompany you on your adventure. We maintain a guide-to-guest ratio of 1:4 for private tours and 1:5 for group tours.


IS THERE A MINIMUM OR MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE?

There is no minimum group size, however the maximum per guide-to-guest ratio is 1:4 for private tours and 1:5 for group tours. Groups between 6 to 10 guests will need to book a second tour.


WHAT SHOULD I WEAR AND 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.


WHAT TIME OF YEAR IS VIA FERRATA 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. For private tours, as time and ability allow, multiple routes can be attempted within the 3-hour tour time. Group tours include 1 route down, 1 route back up, and the bridge.


WHAT EQUIPMENT DO YOU SUPPLY? CAN I BRING MY OWN?

We supply all safety equipment including harness, lanyards, and helmet. You must use safety equipment 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 FALL?

Yes, you can fall. Your lanyards are attached to a steel cable parallel to the climbing route, which will arrest your fall. 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 Ferrata can be used to climb both up and down.