A large network of via ferratas in varying degrees of difficulty can be found throughout Ötztal. Difficulty levels range from A (easy) to E (extreme). What they all have in common: a good head for heights is a great advantage, a complete via ferrata climbing set (helmet, chest and sit harness, and carabiner rope brake) is absolutely necessary. Professional rental stations can be found HERE.
Ötztal offers the right climbing route for via ferrata fans of all ability levels - as an example of the versatile offer, we will present three of them:
For children & beginners: Stuibenfall Via Ferrata
The scenic via ferrata at the 159 meter high Stuiben Falls (Tirol's biggest waterfall) in Umhausen-Niederthai is probably the easiest within the area as it features a climbing length of only 450 meters. However, it is one of the most spectacular: Even the access route leads over a rope bridge and into a fairytale forest – only later you reach the impressive walls before getting in touch with the water spray of the Stuiben Falls. A tightrope walk over the roaring waters is included but only if you want! For children (from 10 years onwards, incl. additional safety rope) and beginners the via ferrata is well suited since there are many stepladders. All details about the Stuibenfall Via Ferrata can be found HERE.
More beginner and family-friendly via ferrata routes: Haiming / Geierwand Via Ferrata which also offers a midi and mini variant; Zirbenwald Via Ferrata in Obergurgl-Hochgurgl (suitable for children over 10 years); Moosalm Via Ferrata in Sölden with alternative and easy exit.
For advanced climbers: Reinhard Schiestl Via Ferrata
Awe inspiring: The Reinhard-Schiestl via ferrata on the almost vertical Burgsteinwand rock wall near Längenfeld is a difficult via ferrata tour for real aficionados. Beautifully exposed, equipped with many stepladders and two rest areas, this climbing adventure offers superb views of Ötztal. All important details about the via ferrata on Burgsteinwand can be found HERE.
For true experts conquering new heights: Schwärzenkamm Via Ferrata
A wonderful panoramic via ferrata at the heart of Obergurgl’s glacier world. Although the route has no unconquerable difficulties it is fairly challenging and requires climbing experience due to its high Alpine and north-facing location. Two emergency exits also make it possible to shorten the route. Special tip: You can easily reach Langtalereckütte by (E)bike, from where you continue on foot to the via ferrata’s access point. More details about the Schwärzenkamm via ferrata can be found HERE.
