Telluride Live

About

The Telluride Via Ferrata is a climbing route of cables, iron holds and natural rock across the south-facing wall at the east end of the box canyon, below Ajax Peak. You clip into fixed cables as you go, and at the most exposed spot, the tourism board says, you stand on a small iron foothold about 500 feet up. The Telluride Mountain Club warns that the cable isn't continuous, so in places you can't stay clipped in.

The tourism board rates it experts only, with a guide recommended: 2 or more miles, 859 feet of elevation gain and 4 to 5 or more hours. The club suggests parking at the bottom of the Bridal Veil Trail, hiking it and one switchback of Bridal Veil Road to the east access point, then traveling east to west. That makes a loop.

History

The route is also called the Krogerata, after climber and builder Chuck Kroger, who came up with it and started on a section now called the Main Event. After his death, friends kept building it with cables and more handholds.

When to go

Spring, summer and fall are best, the club says. There's no way off the route once you're on it, so watch the forecast. Afternoon rain is typical from early July through mid-August, and in spring, snow above the route brings avalanche danger.

Good to know

The club's gear list: climbing harness, helmet, via ferrata lanyard with shock-absorbing arms, at least three locking carabiners, hiking shoes, water, a snack, a headlamp and rain gear.

Without the gear or experience, hire a local guide, who supplies the equipment.

The club says it isn't suitable for small children, very short adults or anyone uneasy with heights, and dogs should stay home. Stay off private property at the west end, including lower Marshall Creek Road.

Price

• Route accessFree

Guide companies set their own prices for guided trips.

Prices checked November 2026 on the website of the Telluride Mountain Club. They can change, so check before you go.

Something wrong? Tell us