Guided Climbing Adventures

Location

Via Ferrata check-in is at Snowmobile Adventures, located behind the Yodler Restaurant near Main Lodge. Groups should check in 30 minutes before their scheduled tour to sign liability forms and for a quick orientation. From there, they'll head up to McCoy Station (the gondola's mid-point), where they'll get comfortable on the practice wall before heading to Via Ferrata routes.

10200 Minaret Rd
Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
See on map

Hours

Via Ferrata is open daily from June 29–September 2, 2024. Walk-ups are welcome daily between 8:30 AM–1:30 PM and are subject to availability.

• 3 hour Private tours offered at 9:00 AM, 9:15 AM, 9:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 1:30 PM
• 90 minute Group tours begin at 10:00 AM and depart every hour until 2:00 PM

Hours are subject to weather and conditions. Please check Activity Status on the Mammoth App or Mountain Report page before heading up.

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.

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 to ensure maximum safety and fun.

There is no minimum group size, however the maximum per guide-to-guest ratio is 1:4 for both group and private tours. Some larger groups may be accommodated by contacting our Via Ferrata staff directly at 760.934.9645.

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 open toed shoes, rings, or dangling jewelry.

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

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

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.

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.

We supply all safety equipment including harness, lanyards, and helmet. You must use safety equipment provided by Mammoth Mountain.

Cell phones and cameras are not permitted for use during your climbing experience but may be secured in your backpack.Guides will take photos to share with you at the end of the tour.

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.

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.