Photo: Andreas P, CC BY, Adobe Stock

Difficulty Scales of Via Ferratas

Via Ferratas offer experienced hikers the chance to cross a scarp with the aid of constructed wire ropes. To cross those passages safely, endurance, sure-footedness, and a head for heights are crucial in addition to the right equipment.

As with climbing, via ferratas also use different scaling to rate the difficulty. We base our ratings on the Schall rating scale which is most widespread in the Alp region.

Difficulty Scales of Via Ferratas

Via ferratas are paths and climbing routes secured by metal cables, fixed ropes or chains. Generally, necessary equipment includes a climbing harness, a via ferrata set, a helmet, sturdy footwear and a first aid kit. Sometimes a rope for an additional belay is needed, especially for children and beginners.

Easy - Easy, cable-secured paths with some short, exposed but well-secured sections. Experienced mountaineers may choose not to clip in.

A/B, B

Moderate - Sections with steeper and exposed rocky terrain. Vertical, fairly long ladders and iron steps.

B/C, C

Difficult - Steep to very steep rocky terrain. Exposed passages with small footholds.

C/D, D

Very difficult - Vertical, often overhanging and very exposed climbing terrain. Often iron steps and bolts are far apart. Considerable upper body strength and good climbing technique required.

D/E, E

Extremely difficult - Mostly overhanging terrain with extreme demands on physical and mental strength. Only for very experienced via ferrata "pros".

E/F, F

Exceptionally extreme difficulty - only for climbers and extremely experienced via ferrata "pros". Often an additional belay is set up for safety.