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Here’s What Our Granite Via Ferrata is All About

Colorado Via Ferrata

After taking a scenic drive through the Rocky Mountains to the beautiful hidden gem of Buena Vista, you may spot AVA’s newest adventure along the granite cliffside just north of town.  Being different from any other activity, it truly immerses participants in a thrilling, high mountain experience.  The Granite Via Ferrata is just days away from firing up for the season!

What is a Via Ferrata?

Italian for “Iron Way,” the Via Ferrata was originally used as a climbing route in countries like Italy and Austria. During World War I it was used to move troops throughout the mountains. Traditionally, the Via Ferrate uses iron rungs, bridges and cable to assist in climbing and traversing a mountain. With the ease of passing through mountains wearing a harness and the added built in features such as the iron rungs to provide safety, the Via Ferrate became something that could be used recreationally instead of simply practically.

What makes AVA’s Granite Via Ferrata so special?

There’s a reason the Via Ferrata was so highly anticipated at the Buena Vista outpost. The Granite Via Ferrata traversing and climbing the mountain to the next level. As if traversing a mountain side wasn’t thrilling enough, the Granite Via Ferrata incorporates a zipline, a 60+ foot free fall and a rappel down the cliffside. On top of being exciting and great for adrenaline junkies, it’s also in a gorgeous mountain setting. Sitting right at the base of the 14,000 feet Collegiate Peaks, you can’t get a better view.

Colorado Via Ferrata

What can you expect?

You’ll start your day meeting at our Buena Vista outpost.  You’ll want to be equipped with a good water bottle and be wearing good hiking shoes, athletic clothing and a layer of sunscreen. Your experienced guide will greet you and get you all geared up for a day among the mountaintops. After a short jaunt to the trailhead, you’ll start the trek up to the start of the course.

Buena Vista Via Ferrata

To kick off the Granite Via Ferrata, you’ll cruise along a few ziplines and then try out some assisted rock climbing using a belay system to help you up. Crags and iron rungs will help you as you make your way along the cliffside above the Arkansas River Valley. Continuing on your journey, you will rappel down a granite rock face, taking it all in. Suspended bridges and wires will aid your adventure  If that didn’t get your heart beating fast enough, the free fall sure will.  Picture yourself inching your way out to the end of a platform and peering over at one of your smiling guides below.  You’ll take a deep breath and step off.  At the end of your adventure, when you’re back at the outpost you can high-five your group, celebrating conquering this unique excursion.

Where should you go after your trip?

The fan-favorite Eddyline Brewery is located in the heart of Buena Vista and serves up great beers and eats to refuel you after your exciting day.  You’ll be in need of a cold brew after an adrenaline-filled day.

Book your Granite Via Ferrata adventure today and get $50 off a person with promo code HAKUNAFERRATA.

Adventure Packages that Include a Via Ferrata Excursion
A Look into Italy's Via Ferratas