Chamonix Via Ferrata All the Information

Via Ferrata Chamonix Mont-Blanc

"Iron Roads", translated from Italian, is a cross between hiking and climbing. Via Ferrata routes are built into rock faces with cables and ladders and other equipment designed to facilitate people's progression along the route and to optimize their security.

Developed by the Italian Army in the Dolomites during WW1 to access "inaccessible" peaks and equip safe passage for the troups carrying heavy equipment, Via Ferrata is now a new activity in its own right for people keen to try something a little more challenging than alpine hiking. Although no real climbing ability is needed, a via ferrata does demand a steady head for heights.

Via Ferrata at les Evettes. In the background, from left to right: Aiguille Pourrie; Col de la Glière; la Cathédrale; Col des Lacs Noirs. photo source: @Oriana Frarier

Where to do some Via Ferrata in Chamonix?

The Via Ferrata des Evettes is a brilliant idea of the Compagnie du Mont-Blanc with advice from the Compagnie des Guides and represents the first Via Ferrata in Chamonix (La Flégère).

The Via des Evettes is excellent for the whole family, and it can give children a take for climbing and adventure.

The Chamonix Via Ferrata is free of charge - you will just need to buy a return lift ticket for La Flégère cable car.

You can read everything about the two sections of the Via des Evettes, how to access them, the equipment needed and more, here.

Mer de Glace - Chamonix: Starts at the Montenvers train station, traverses the Mer de Glac glacier, then at the Echellets goes up to the refuge Couvercle (4-5 hours up). Lots of ladders (30).

Moreover, there are lots of Via Ferratas close to Chamonix within a 30min to 1-hour drive.

Mer de Glace in Chamonix
Passy
Borderan in the Col des Aravis near La Clusaz
Yves Pollet Villard in La Clusaz
Saix du Tour in Avoriaz / Morzine
Saix de Miolène in Chapelle / Abondance
Tour de Jalouvre in Grand Bornand
Collonges in St. Julien / Genève
Reclavier in St. Julien / Genève
du Mont in Sixt Fer à Cheval
la Roche à l'Agathe in Thônes

Aiguille du Midi

Step Into the Void

Mer de Glace

How to practice the Via Ferrata?

It is recommended to take a guide or an instructor, either for a first time experience or also to discover the best sites.

Via Ferrata Specialists, Providers and Guides

There are also Via Ferrata and Rock Climbing Instructors which specialize in Via Ferrata
Mountain Guides are qualified to take you on Via Ferrata

Required Equipment

a via ferrata sling equipped with a braking system and 2 carabiners - designed to prevent a fall.
a helmet

Also, as in any climbing activity, you should bring: a climbing rope, carabiners, appropriate footwear, gloves, and a backpack with supplies and a water bottle.

When you hire a guide, normally this specialized equipment will be provided for you.

For more information visit www.viaferrata.org.

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