Edge Above Telluride: Climbing the Via Ferrata to Bridal Veil Falls
Clip In, Look Down: A guided climb with views of Bridal Veil Falls and the San Juans
You step out of town into thin, cold sunlight and the San Juan peaks close like a cuff around Telluride. The trail heads up through spruce and aspen, the air sharpening with altitude; below, the town’s grid shrinks and the river threads silver through the box canyon. In an hour the path narrows, and the rock face—already ancient and pocked with ice-age scars—leans toward you. The steel cable appears as if stitched into the stone, a bright, human-made lifeline against a vertical world. This is the Telluride Via Ferrata: a high-alpine traverse that takes you along iron rungs and cables, sometimes 600 feet above the valley floor, with Bridal Veil Falls roaring nearby and the town of Telluride perched like an afterthought far below.
Trail Wisdom
Trust the System
Always stay clipped to the cable; clip one carabiner before you unclip the other at anchor points.
Bring Grippy Shoes
Approach shoes with sticky rubber or light hiking shoes offer traction on iron rungs and wet rock near the falls.
Hydrate Before You Start
Drink plenty of water before the climb—altitude and effort combine quickly on exposed routes.
Plan for Weather Windows
Start in the morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms; the route is exposed and lightning is a significant risk.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Hike the lower Jud Wiebe Trail for wildflower meadows and mountain views
- •Drive the scenic road to Alta Lakes for quieter alpine fishing and vistas
Wildlife
Mule deer, Golden eagle
Conservation Note
Operators emphasize Leave No Trace principles and group size limits to protect fragile alpine vegetation; avoid trampling meadows and pack out all waste.
Telluride was a 19th-century mining boomtown; many trails and roads follow old miner routes and flume beds dating to that era.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Fewer crowds, Wildflower displays, Lower lodging rates
Challenges: Snow patches on the approach, Unpredictable weather, Cold spray from the falls
Late spring can offer dramatic water flow from snowmelt and blooming aspens, but expect lingering snow and colder conditions—confirm availability with guides.
summer
Best for: Stable weather, Full waterfall flow, Long daylight hours
Challenges: Afternoon thunderstorms, Higher visitor numbers, Warm daytime temperatures in town
Summer is the optimal season with the most consistent conditions—book early for private trips and start early to avoid storms.
fall
Best for: Fall color in aspens, Crisp, clear air, Smaller crowds
Challenges: Shorter days, Early snow possible, Cooler temperatures on exposed rock
Autumn’s golden aspens make the approach spectacular; be ready for colder temps and possible snow at higher elevations.
winter
Best for: Snowy vistas from town, Off-season solitude, Combination tours for experienced climbers
Challenges: Route typically closed or technical ice conditions, High avalanche risk, Requires winter climbing skills
Winter conditions generally make the via ferrata unsafe for standard guests; only expert, specifically equipped guided parties should attempt it in snow and ice.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Approach or Light Hiking ShoesEssential
Provide grip on iron rungs and wet rock without the stiffness of full mountaineering boots.
Light Waterproof ShellEssential
Protects from spray off Bridal Veil Falls and sudden mountain showers.
Small Daypack (12–20L)Essential
Holds water, snacks, layered clothing, and your camera without getting in the way on the cable.
Gloves with Grippy Palms
Protect hands on steel cable and rungs—thin climbing gloves maintain dexterity.
Common Questions
Do I need previous climbing experience to do the via ferrata?
No technical climbing background is required—guided trips teach the via ferrata safety and movement techniques. Comfortable balance and no severe fear of heights are helpful.
What is the minimum age or physical requirement?
Policies vary by operator; most require guests to be able to hike the approach and follow safety instructions—check the specific operator’s age limits and fitness requirements.
Is the equipment included?
Guided via ferrata trips typically include harnesses, helmets, and via ferrata lanyards; confirm with your booking for included items and any optional extras.
Can the route be done in wet conditions?
Sections near Bridal Veil Falls may be wet or slippery from spray; guides may modify the itinerary or postpone for safety in heavy rain or storms.
How exposed is the route?
Exposed sections can be several hundred feet above the valley; while the cable reduces objective risk, the exposure is substantial and mentally demanding for some guests.
How do I get to Telluride?
Telluride has a small regional airport (TEX) with limited service; most travelers fly into Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) and drive approximately 70–90 minutes to Telluride.
What to Pack
Helmet and harness (provided) or ensure operator supplies; sturdy approach shoes for grip; water and electrolyte drink for altitude hydration; layered shell for wind and spray protection
Did You Know
Bridal Veil Falls in Telluride is Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall, plunging approximately 365 feet—an iconic landmark you’ll see from the via ferrata.
Quick Travel Tips
Book your tour early in summer; fly into Montrose if Telluride flights are limited; start mornings to avoid thunderstorms; bring cash or card for local parking fees
Local Flavor
After the climb, head into Telluride’s compact downtown for craft beer and hearty mountain fare, sample locally sourced trout or game, and stroll the historic district to connect the adventure with the town’s mining-era roots.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Telluride Regional Airport (seasonal) / Montrose Regional (MTJ, ~70–90 minutes). Trailhead: shuttle or short drive from Telluride town center. Cell: spotty to none on the cliffs. Permits: none required for guided trips—confirm parking regulations with your operator.
Sustainability Note
This is fragile alpine terrain—stick to anchored routes, avoid chalking the rock, pack out all trash, and support outfitters who follow Leave No Trace and minimal-impact practices.