If you’ve ever wanted to mix hiking, climbing, and a bit of exposure but didn’t want to commit to full-on trad climbing, Utah’s new Via Ferrata (Via Ferrata = “iron path” in Italian) at Ashley Gorge is your ticket to a wild adventure made accessible. Located just outside Vernal, this route offers steel cables, rungs, ladders, and climbs fixed to cliff faces so you can climb safely even if you’ve never touched ropes before. It’s steeped in scenery, adventurous thrills, and outdoor beauty.
What is the Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata?
Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata is Utah’s first public Via Ferrata and reportedly the longest public Ferrata route in the U.S. The route includes fixed steel rungs, safety cables, and bridges/ladders to help you ascend cliff faces and traverse exposed areas, which would otherwise require more technical climbing skills. There are multiple guided trip options: a half-day Raptor Run (less commitment, still an adventure) and a full-day Apex Ascent with more time, exposure, and distance.
What You Need & Safety Tips
To get the most out of this adventure and stay safe, here is what you should bring, what’s required, and what to keep in mind:
- Essential Gear: Helmet, Via Ferrata lanyard system, harness. Footwear should be good approach or hiking shoes with a solid grip. Gloves are recommended.
- Physical Preparedness: You should be comfortable with hiking ~3–5 miles in desert terrain, as well as climbing ladders and cable routes. The full-day option is more demanding; plan accordingly.
- Age & Reach/Weight Requirements: Kids 8+ can often join guided trips. Required minimum reach is 62 inches. Weight limits: ~90 to 265 lbs (40–120 kg) per safety rules. If outside those limits, a professional guide is required.
- Waivers and Permissions: All users must sign waivers. Dyno Outfitters offers guided trips and rental gear, along with necessary paperwork. Uintah County requires participants to follow posted rules.
- Weather & Timing: It will get hot in summer, so early start times are better. Watch for heat, sun exposure, and afternoon storms. When amenities are still being developed, plan logistics carefully (parking, restrooms, safety).
Where to Stay in Vernal
To make the most of your adventure, staying in Vernal gives you proximity, resources, and comfort. Here are some well-reviewed options:
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Vernal: Spacious suites with full amenities: indoor pool, hot tub, complimentary breakfast. Good base. (Marriott)
- Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Vernal / Naples: Clean, practical, good rates, often praised by families. (Booking.com)
- Ledgestone Suites Hotel Vernal: Nice option, slightly more upscale. (Booking.com)
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Vernal – Dinosaurland: Reliable chain with everyday comfort. (IHG)
Where to Eat & Drink
After a day of heights and adrenaline, you’ll want good food, friendly vibes, and maybe a cold drink. Vernal has some solid spots:
- Vernal Brewing Company: Great place to unwind. Craft beers + comfort food = ideal post-Ferrata meal. (vernalbrewing.com)
- Antica Forma: Delicious Italian cuisine, featuring wood-fired pizzas and fresh pastas, with in-house-made ingredients. Perfect for carb-loading. (Tripadvisor)
- 7-11 Ranch Restaurant: Oldest existing restaurant in Vernal. Hearty, traditional American eats, big portions, and approachable menus. (711ranchrestaurant.com)
- Plaza Mexicana and Swain Brothers: Good for variety; one’s Mexican, the other for steaks/southern-Western style. (Tripadvisor)
Tips for Planning Your Trip
- Book guided trips and gear in advance, especially on weekends or during peak seasons.
- Check the status of amenities (parking/restrooms) since some are still under construction.
- Start early in the day to avoid midday heat and to have better lighting for photos.
- Bring hydration, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, layers), snacks.
- Leave no trace: stay on marked trails, pack out trash, and respect the fragile canyon ecology and water resources.
The Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata is more than just another adventure activity—it’s a gateway into a new (vertical) dimension of exploring Eastern Utah. It blends fun, challenge, accessibility, and phenomenal views. Whether you’re coming from near or far, with experience or fresh to climbing, it’s a bucket-list addition.
If you’re planning to go, I’d love to hear: will you take the Raptor Run half-day or go big with the Apex Ascent? Either way, strap in, clip on, and enjoy the climb—you’ll come down with stories.
