Via ferrata climbing has experienced a real boom in recent years. More and more people are seeking the challenge of climbing steep rock faces like climbers. With the help of steps and iron clamps, always secured to a continuous wire rope, via ferrata climbing is almost like hiking vertically.
For your own safety
But beware, modern via ferrata equipment is absolutely essential. You also need to know how to use it. We strongly recommend that inexperienced climbers take a course with a state-certified mountain and ski guide. Free one-day via ferrata workshops in Tyrol are available from Climbhow.
There are numerous via ferratas around Innsbruck. We would like to introduce you to two of them here:
Innsbruck via ferrata
Innsbruck via ferrata
The Innsbruck via ferrata is the classic route above the rooftops of the Tyrolean capital. The via ferrata leads in two parts from the mountain station of the Nordkettenbahn cable car on the Hafelekar to Frau Hitt. The first part follows the natural course of the ridge and there are many ups and downs up to the Langer Sattel. Several peaks are crossed along the way and there are unique views down to Innsbruck, the glaciated main Alpine ridge and the lonely Karwendel mountains.
The second part from Langen Sattel to Frau Hitt is somewhat shorter, but also more difficult. Both parts in succession in one day should only be completed by very fit via ferrata climbers.
Requirements
Good and stable weather is essential. Even if it is not clear from the difficulty rating, the Innsbruck via ferrata is long and demanding and should not be underestimated under any circumstances. Sure-footedness, a head for heights and a good level of fitness are essential.
The facts at a glance
Difficulty rating: first section B and C, second section C/D
Duration of the first section: approx. 4-5 hours
Duration of the descent from Langer Sattel to Seegrube: approx. 1 h
Duration of the second section: approx. 1-2 h
Duration of the descent from Frau Hitt to Seegrube: approx. 1.5 h
Accessibility: The via ferrata is maintained and opened in spring, information on this can be found at www.nordkette.com.
Access: with the Nordkettenbahn (via ferrata ticket) up to the Hafelekar and in 15 minutes to the start
Kaiser-Max via ferrata
View from the grotto at the Kaiser-Max via ferrata
The Kaiser-Max via ferrata is 450 meters long and leads in a straight line through the Martinswand. It was one of the first pure "sport via ferratas" in Austria.
Requirements
There are hardly any artificial footholds or iron pins in the upper section. A good climbing technique is required to master the 100 meters of almost vertical slabs. Climbing shoes are recommended. There are also climbing sections with difficulty level E. However, you can easily exit after the first section into the impressive Martinswand Grotto. Due to its exposure, the first section should not be underestimated (difficulty level D). At the height of summer, it is only advisable to climb it in the morning due to its south-facing location.
The facts at a glance
Difficulty level: E
Duration of the approach: approx. 10 min.
Duration of the via ferrata: approx. 2 h
Duration of the descent: approx. 1 h
Please note:
The times given are only an approximate guide and may vary greatly depending on conditions, fitness, ability, etc.
