Guided via ferrata weekend in Braunwald

Explore the Alps with the exciting sport of via ferrata. Developed in the early 1900’s as a way for the military to travel through the rugged Alps; today it has become a favorite activity for those seeking high adventure. Climbing routes can be found throughout the Alps and they offer fantastic views with a physical challenge.

Via ferrata routes are made safe with modern equipment, techniques and climbing guides. The route difficulty is expressed using ratings K1-K5, with low numbers easier and higher numbers more difficult. Climbers are attached to a fixed cable that follows the route using lanyards and carabiners. This prevents the chance for a catastrophic fall. The cable and other fixtures, such as iron rungs (stemples), pegs, carved steps, and ladders and bridges, provide both footings and handholds. These fabricated holds make it possible to safely climb with your own strength on rocky ridges and faces not normally accessible.

Join us for a day of high-alpine fun that will challenge your strength and nerves, and will reward you with a feeling of elation and accomplishment.

This event is led by Antoine Chaboudez, climbing instructor.

What’s the plan?

The group will meet at Linthal station at 09:15 and will go up to Gumen (gondola and chairlift). In Gumen, we will check and prepare our equipment. Equipment can be rented out there.

There start various via ferrata routes. The first route is at K1-K2 level and good for warming up and learning how via ferrata works. The second route, which requires a 45-minute hike to the start, is level K3 and is more challenging, requiring more upper body strength. After a day of via ferrata adventures, we’ll come together for dinner and drinks at the Berggasthaus Gumen and stay overnight.

The following day after breakfast, those who are motivated and fit can attempt more challenging Via Ferrata routes (K4-K5) which include more elevation. The start of these routes is the same as the K3 route, so others can do the K3 again. After another full day outside, you can either hike or take the chairlift/gondola back down to the valley and return home by train.

Requirements

No prior via ferrata or climbing experience is needed. However, participants should be confident in their physical ability, have no fear of heights and be willing to challenge themselves.

Insurance

It is the participant’s responsibility to get health and accident insurances that cover mountain rescue, including extreme sports. Becoming a Rega patron is highly recommended (CHF 40 per year only for emergency medical assistance from the air).

How to get there

If you are traveling from Zurich by public transport, we recommend you to take the following:

Saturday

Zurich HB 07:43 – 09:16 Linthal

Sunday

Linthal 16:42 – 18:17 Zurich HB – depending on the time the event finishes

Kit list

Clothing essentials

-Hiking boots
-T-shirt
-Hiking or climbing trousers
-Fleece
-Down jacket
-Waterproof jacket
-Waterproof over trousers
-Sun glasses
-Warm hat
-Buff
-Thin gloves
-Thick gloves

Night essentials

-Sleeping bag liner
-Ear plugs
-Head lamp and spare batteries

Technical gear

-Hiking backpack (20-30L)
-Waterproof backpack cover
-Waterproof inner bags or bin bags
-Via ferrata gear: climbing harness, climbing helmet and via ferrata set (can be rented out)

F&B

-Water
-Snacks
-Packed lunches

Pharmacy

-Sun screen and lip protector
-Plasters and basic medicine

Wallet

-ID
-Health insurance card
-Air rescue membership card (e.g. Rega, Air Glaciers)

Equipment rental

You have the possibility to rent the following equipment in Gulmen (price per day):

-Climbing harness: CHF 12
-Climbing helmet: CHF 12
-Via ferrata set: CHF 12

All the above: CHF 30

Pricing

The price for this event is CHF 470.

Included in price

-2 days of guided via ferrata in a small group with a certified climbing instructor
-1 night of accommodation at Berggasthaus Gumen (shared room)
-Dinner on Saturday
-Breakfast on Sunday

Not included in price

-Transport to/from Linthal
-Cable car and chair lift between Linthal and Gumen
-Lunches
-Drinks and snacks
-Equipment rental

Group size

Min. 4 participants
Max. 6 participants

By signing up for this event, you agree that you have read, understood and will adhere to our Terms and Conditions.