via ferratas have been enjoying a boom for years. With steps and iron rungs, and always secured to a continuous wire rope, via ferrata is a bit like hiking vertically.
There are numerous via ferratas around Innsbruck. We’ll take a closer look at two of them here: the classic ridge route on the Nordkette and the challenging route on the Martinswand.
For your own safety: modern, certified via ferrata equipment is essential – and you must know how to use it. If you are inexperienced, you should first take a course with a state-certified mountain and ski guide.
Text: Matthias Bader
The Innsbrucker via ferrata is the classic route high above the rooftops of Tirol’s capital. It winds its way in two sections across seven peaks of the Nordkette – offering views down over Innsbruck, towards the glaciated main Alpine ridge and into the secluded Karwendel Mountains.
Completing both sections in a single day is only for via ferrata climbers in excellent physical condition. Even though the difficulty rating might not suggest it, the route is long and demanding. Sure-footedness, a head for heights, good physical fitness and stable weather are essential.
The Kaiser-Max via ferrata near Zirl runs in a straight line through the Martinswand and was one of Austria’s first sport via ferratas. In the upper section, there are hardly any artificial footholds: Around 100 metres of almost vertical slabs, with sections up to grade E, require good climbing technique; climbing shoes are recommended. The exposed first section (D) should not be underestimated either. Those who have had enough can descend to the Maximiliansgrotte after the first section.
A brief comparison with nine other via ferratas can be found in ‘From B to E: 10 via ferratas in Tirol for every level’.
Note: The times given are approximate and may vary considerably depending on conditions, fitness and ability.
Tips & Safety
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