Via Ferrata
Via Ferrata means “Iron Path” in Italian. It is an accessible way to experience the thrill of Rock Climbing and High Ropes courses without needing technical climbing skills or prior experience. Think of it as similar to American Ninja Warrior, but surrounded by nature, and less physical. Our Eastside Via features several high-wire bridges, an optional cave experience, and several opportunities to “add-on” extra course components if guests find the standard course “too easy”. Guests wear harnesses and are tethered to wires at all times during the course.
Ziplining
The Iron Horse and Pony Express
The Ranch is home to the longest Zipline in the state: the Iron Horse Zipline. The Iron Horse (or Big Zip) rises over 200’ feet above the canyon floor and riders can reach max speeds of 50 mph! It spans a half-mile and riders experience sweeping views of the canyon below.
Guests who are interested in multiple zips (or maybe would like a “warm-up” before stepping up to the Big Zip) can add the Pony Express - a 700’ thrill across the lower canyon. Be sure to wave to the ranch animals as you zoom by!
Book Your Adventure
We strongly recommend reservations for the Via Ferrata/Zipline Adventure, but we will always do our best to accommodate walk-ins. Give us a call or stop by the Trading Co. to make a reservation.
All gear is provided and guests undergo an orientation before embarking on the course. Guides will lead participants through the Via, selecting course elements based on the individual or group’s abilities. The course completes with a stellar view of the canyon - at the top of the Big Zipline! The Big Zipline (Iron Horse) is a half-mile long and rises 200’ above the canyon floor. Guests ride the zipline back to the Westside for the conclusion of the “Full Adventure.”
Guests who complete the Eastside Via are encouraged to inquire about the Westside Via. Moderately more technical and physically demanding, the West Side Via is the “secret Via” for guests who have already proven themselves on the East Side. The Westside Via also includes a zipline experience.
The duration of the Full Adventure varies by group size and ability, but typical times are between 2-3 hours. Children are welcome (and encouraged!) to do the Via but must be old enough to be able to clip and unclip their own lanyard (and be 50” tall/over 88lbs). There is a weight maximum of 265lbs. People with a serious fear of heights will not enjoy the Via. Closed toe shoes are required.
Children need to be over 50” tall (and over 50lbs to zip). The underside of the tall coffee bar is 50” - if kids can fit under the coffee bar without their head touching, they are too short to do the Via.
Weather can be quite different between the Via Course and the Trading Co. In colder weather, encourage layers, hats, and gloves that do not inhibit dexterity and advise guests towards reservation times in early afternoon. In the summer months, the Via bakes in the afternoon sun. Advise guests to wear sunscreen and recommend reservation times in the morning if possible.
Guides will generally give guests a ride to the Via course. The exception to this is for very large groups (15+). Large groups walk to and from the course (a guide shuttles gear so they do not have to carry it). This adds 30-45 minutes to the experience time, round trip.