What does a typical via ferrata tour involve?

Planning and Arrival
Before you start, choose a suitable via ferrata based on experience, fitness, weather. Check length, difficulty, approach, return route. On tour day, go to the starting point, usually a valley village or mountain station.

Approach: the path to the start
The approach is on foot, duration varies between a few minutes and over an hour depending on the route. Gain initial altitude, ideal for warming up. Maintain a steady rhythm.

Start and Equipment Check
At the start, put on equipment: harness, via ferrata set, helmet. Clip carabiners to the steel cable. Perform partner check: verify correct setup. The actual via ferrata begins.

Climbing the Route
Follow the steel cable along the wall, use steps, ladders, natural grips. Clip and unclip carabiners one at a time. Move slowly. Step by step, especially at difficult sections. Work mainly with legs, arms only for support. On overhangs: pause, breathe, clip, continue climbing.

Breaks and Breathing
At safe points, stand, drink, let other groups pass. Use a resting sling if needed, attach to the cable.

Typical Features Along the Way
Suspension bridges, rope bridges, ziplines create the appeal of many via ferratas. It is important to follow instructions at the start of these elements. Ziplines often require special pulleys or a guide.

Exit and Descent
The steel cable ends, success achieved. At summit or ridge, remove via ferrata set, helmet stays on. Descent may lead directly to the valley or a mountain lift. Stay alert. Most accidents occur during descent.

After the Tour: Check and Recovery
Back in the valley, inspect equipment, especially carabiners and energy absorbers. Stretch, loosen, recover. Avoid long drives without breaks. Celebrate achievement at the hut or in the village.