Introductory Via Ferrata Course

Basic
1 day
People on the via ferrata Rotstock at Eiger
Klettersteig Rotstock 1
People below the north face of the Eiger on the way to the start of the via ferrata Rotstock
First via ferrata experience with a mountain guide
Introduction to equipment and techniques
Ideal for beginners with no prior experience

Season:

June October

Departure Times

09:40

Key info

You are an experienced mountain hiker, but no via ferrata experience is required.

Overview

Recommended for: Anyone looking for the mountain beyond the postcard.

Get a taste of vertical air: Learn the basics of via ferrata climbing. With the right technique, it's twice the fun.

A via ferrata challenges both body and mind: You will learn how to properly use the via ferrata equipment and energy-saving techniques. Step by step, you work your way up, always under expert guidance. Once at the top, you are rewarded with the vastness of the mountains and the feeling of having discovered a new dimension of mountain sports.

Course details

Academy

Learning objectives

  • Getting to know the equipment and how to handle it correctly
  • Assessing terrain and difficulty level of a via ferrata
  • Learning basic belaying techniques on a via ferrata
  • Improving balance and footwork in steep terrain
  • Understanding safety-related behavior in a group and on the rock
  • First independent movements on the secured path under guidance

Assessment methods

Progress is continuously assessed

The mountain guide observes and provides situational feedback on technique, safety, and behavior. The goal is to practically implement what has been learned on the path.

Certification

Certificate: Introductory Via Ferrata Course

Upon completion of the day course, participants receive a certificate. This confirms successful participation in the introductory via ferrata course in Grindelwald, but is intended as a keepsake and is not an official document.

Issued by:
Outdoor Switzerland AG

Itinerary

Meeting points
From the meeting point at the Eigergletscher station, we hike together to the start of the Rotstock via ferrata. This warm-up stretch takes us along the Eiger Trail and gives us the chance to take in the magnificent scenery. Along the way, the mountain guide introduces the equipment and explains the key rules for via ferrata climbing. At the start, we put on harnesses and helmets, check the carabiners, and try out our first moves in easy terrain. The route leads over ladders, through rock bands, and steeper sections, where you will learn how to climb safely, shift your weight correctly, and secure yourself properly with the via ferrata set. Your guide provides targeted tips on technique as you get used to vertical movement. Once at the top at 2,663 m (8,735 ft), the view opens wide over the high mountains. The proximity to the famous Eiger North Face makes this moment particularly impressive. After a break, we descend via the south side of the Rotstock and return to the Eigergletscher station. Here, too, a few challenging sections await us. With new skills and your first via ferrata experience under your belt, the day ends; perhaps as a prelude to further alpine adventures.

Whats included

Guiding from a licenced mountain guide/ aspirant guide
Expenses of the mountain guide
Technical equipment
Course Certificate

Not included

Costs for cable cars and travel expenses of the guest
Snacks
Costs for a taxi if needed (guests pay for the guide's share)

Pack list

Weather info

General weather info

Weather can influence any tour, and a clear decision is often only possible on the day itself. We review conditions carefully and remain within our safety limits, and bad weather alone does not mean we have to stop.

Make sure we can reach you with current contact information in case your booking changes. Silence from us means your tour is still planned or the final call is not yet made. If we need to cancel, you can rebook, choose another activity, or get a full refund.

For detailed advice on how to prepare for (and enjoy!) bad weather days in Interlaken, check out our weather blog 

Meeting points

Meeting pointActivity location

Station Eigergletscher

Station Eigergletscher, 3823 Lauterbrunnen
Meeting points
Activity location

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