Bettie Course: Via Ferrata

Experience climbing the Via Ferrata with a supportive and fun group of women!

The Via Ferrata is a unique experience that falls somewhere between scrambling and technical rock climbing, akin to a ropes course up a cliff. While it is physically demanding, the system of cables and ladders allows even non-experienced climbers to ascend the 600 foot tall cliff. All you need is good fitness and a passing ability to deal with heights.

Participants, accompanied by KMAC guides, are secured to the system of anchored steel cables as they ascend using natural rock features, ladders, and steel steps. While you ascend, you’ll enjoy stunning vistas of Rocky Mountain National Park and the surrounding valley typically accessible only to rock climbers!

Who: This program is intended for women ages 16 and up. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Program level & description: Moderate – This program is most appropriate for those with some hiking experience. Expect to hike about a mile to the base of the Via Ferrata. The Peregrine Arete begins in a rocky gully on the side of the cliff. It traverses in and quickly gains elevation and exposure as the ground drops away. By design, the most physically demanding moves are at the very beginning to give an idea of what is to come. Participants then move into the “Hinterstoisser Traverse,” a wildly exposed section that gets hearts racing. After a fun steeper section participants arrive at one of the best views in the world for a snack break. After a break, participants will start the second half, the Peregrine Arete. This half isn’t as physically challenging, but it does offer amazing views in all directions as it follows the crest of the ridge, as high above the valley as it gets, all the way to the summit! No previous rock climbing experience is necessary to ascend the Via Ferrata.

Transportation will be in a 15-passenger van with bench seats and a narrow aisle that requires stepping up to enter.

Unfortunately, due to limitations on the lanyard safety equipment that connects you to the Via Ferrata system, we cannot accept guests over 265 lbs.

When: Sunday, June 14, 2026 from 9:00am to 2:00pm

Where: Meet at the KMAC Office (1230 Big Thompson Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517). We will drive together in Conservancy vehicles to the trailhead.

Whats Included:

• Guides
• Harness
• Helmet
• Via Ferrata Lanyard

What to Bring:

• Small backpack
• lunch
• 2 liters of water
• Rain jacket
• Layers for changing weather
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat

Refund Policy:

Cancellations made more than 30 days prior to the start of the course are eligible for a full refund. Cancellations made fewer than 30 days in advance are not eligible for a refund.

Our programs proceed rain or shine, and participants should be prepared for inclement weather. However, should we decide to cancel a program due to unsafe weather or emergency conditions, we will notify participants by email and automatically issue full refunds.

If you have questions about this course, please contact the Field Institute by email at [email protected] or by phone at 970-586-3262.

Bettie Courses are inspired by the life and work of Beatrice “Bettie” Willard, who was a foundational instructor at the Rocky Mountain Conservancy Field Institute. Her research on alpine tundra ecology has been instrumental to mountain ecology, and her advocacy throughout the state of Colorado and across the United States has left a legacy for all who value land stewardship and conservation. Rocky Mountain Conservancy's Bettie Courses focus on accessible programs that introduce women to the outdoors through a variety of programs and topics. Courses emphasize science, ecology, and building the outdoor skills and confidence needed to explore and defend wild places.

These courses are offered through Rocky Mountain Conservancy, with scholarships available through the Magnificent Mountain Women Scholarship Fund. For more information about scholarships, please submit an application by completing the form here:

Please note that Bettie Courses are not eligible for member discounts.

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