Experience The Thrill Of Via Ferrata!
Accessible to most, climbing a via ferrata is the best way to climb a mountain in the alberta rockies!
Book One Of Nordegg’s Great Via Ferratas:
The Fox Via Ferrata
This amazing via ferrata climbing route gives intermediate hikers access to a fun rock climbing experience.
From Nordegg With Love
This challenging via ferrata climbing route gives you an opportunity to scale a steep mountain face.
Double Trouble Via Ferrata Adventure
A via ferrata combo that is highly adventurous. Climb The Fox and From Nordegg With Love in the same day.
Banff and Nordegg’s Via Ferratas:
An enticing alternative to the busy via ferrata at Mt. Norquay in Banff are the Nordegg area’s two exceptional via ferratas. Rising above the stunning landscape of David Thompson Country, these routes present a unique combination of excitement, solitude, and cultural opportunity.
Diversity defines the via ferratas in Nordegg, providing options for climbers of all skill levels. With one of the most accessible blue-rated climbs and the most exposed double black route in Canada, thrill-seekers can tailor their experience to match their expertise and appetite for excitement. The breathtaking vistas over Abraham Lake and challenging terrain make for an unforgettable adventure.
Escape the Crowds in Banff!
Escaping the crowds that often overwhelm Mt Norquay in Banff is hard. Just two hours north of Banff, Nordegg’s two via ferratas offer a more intimate experience with nature. Easier parking and fewer fellow adventurers ensure a quieter atmosphere, allowing for uninterrupted moments to capture stunning photos for Instagram.
Discover the azure blue beauty of Abraham Lake, Allstones Creek, and Siffleur Falls, all within a short drive of the via ferratas. Most activities are a half day, so you can climb with us in the morning and hike and sightsee in the afternoon.
Learn from the Indigenous Culture in Nordegg!
Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Indigenous culture with opportunities for cultural learning experiences. We also offer intimate learning hikes led by indigenous guides designed to share with you knowledge of the land, people and history of the area from an indigenous perspective.
Choose Nordegg for a well-rounded experience that combines thrilling climbs, tranquility, and cultural exploration amidst the awe-inspiring David Thompson Country.
Frequently Asked Questions about Via Ferrata
Here are the answers to a few common questions about via ferrata’s. If you have other questions, or have special booking needs, contact us!
What does Via Ferrata Mean?
“Via ferrata” is Itallian for “iron way” and descrides a srtyle of climbing where climbers use cables, ladder rungs and other fixed equipment to climb a mountain and can go up, down or sideways. Climbers attached to the cable using specially designed via ferrata lanyards. Via ferrata increases the accessibility to the higher more vertical worlds that are normally only accessible to climbers.
Where are nordegg’s via ferratas?
‘The Fox’ is located on Mt. Stelfox, and ‘From Nordegg With Love’ is on Mt. Elliot, a few kilometres apart. They are about 30 min west of Nordegg and about 2 hours north of Banff in Alberta’s beautiful Rocky Mountains along the David Thompson Highway (Highway 11).
Who can climb a via ferrata?
Anyone of reasonable fitness can climb! That is the best part about via ferrata – it is accessible to most. In Alberta anyone below 16 requires a guide by law. If you have never done it before, a guide is essential, as safety and technique are different from rock climbing.
What equipment do I need to climb a via ferrata?
A regular climbing harness, a climbing helmet, sturdy shoes and climbers are attached to the cable using specially designed via ferrata lanyards. Always remember food and water, and appropriate clothing for the weather. Stay off if there is lightning, and remember, you will need to hike down.
Who can I climb a via ferrata with?
Via ferrata is a lot of fun and accessible to the young and old, but it is still important to use a guide, whether you are in Banff National Park, or Nordegg/Lake Abraham. We suggest a minimum age of 12 to join on one of our via ferrata guided trips. It is illegal to take kids under 16 up without a guide.
You can bring your friends and co-workers as long as they have a reasonable level of fitness – ability to climb a (long) ladder, go for a short run or hike. For guests over the age of 60, please contact Nicole in Bookings.
Can I take my child on a via ferrata?
Not without a certified guide. It is actually illegal under Alberta law to take children under 16 on any via ferrata without an ACMG certified guide. ACMG certified guides are trained in not just climbing, but also wilderness first aid and rescue. Via ferrata is a lot of fun and accessible to the young and old, but it is still important to use a guide, whether you are in Banff National Park, or Nordegg/Lake Abraham. We suggest a minimum age of 12 to join on one of our via ferrata guided trips.
Is via ferrata difficult?
It requires knowledge of some simple equipment, and a tolerance for heights. You will be attached to a cable the way up, so via ferrata is quite safe, but it is recommended to go with a guide, at least the first time out.
Is a via ferrata safe?
You will climb while being attached to a metal cable, so it is quite safe. People or all ages and fitness levels can attempt via ferrata, thouhg in Alberta is is illegal to take someone under 16 without a guide. Imagine a 3 hour ladder climb with views.
Need help deciding which trip works for you?