Plan Your Trip
Before You Climb
Everything you need to know to show up ready.
Participant Requirements
These follow the Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata rules set by Uintah County.
| Weight | 90 to 265 lb including clothing and pack. We do not take guests outside this range. |
|---|---|
| Reach | Minimum reach of 62 inches from the ground, standing flat-footed, to reach the cables. |
| Age | Minimum age 8. Guests under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. |
| Fitness | Able to hike 3 to 5 miles on rough desert trail and climb steep ladders and rungs for several hours. |
| Health | Tell us in advance about any medical conditions, injuries or fear of heights so your guide can plan. |
| Waiver | Every guest must sign our participant waiver before the trip. A parent or guardian signs for minors. |
Weight limits are firm. For safety, every guest must weigh between 90 and 265 lb, including clothing and pack. Please weigh yourself before booking.
What to Bring
- At least 2 liters of water per person
- Snacks (and lunch for a full day)
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Gloves (bike or via ferrata gloves work well)
- Sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good grip (approach shoes or hiking shoes)
- Small backpack
- Light jacket
- A WAG bag. There is no bathroom on the course. A porta potty is at the parking lot.
We provide the harness, via ferrata lanyard and helmet.
Where to Meet
Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata trailhead parking lot, about 15 minutes north of Vernal, UT
Arrive 15 minutes before your start time for gear fitting and the safety briefing.
The Route
Ashley Gorge is Utah's first public via ferrata and one of the longest in the Northern Hemisphere. Sectors are graded 1 to 6 on the Fletcher/Smith scale, with a 3 to 5 mile hike through desert terrain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need climbing experience?
No. Most of our guests are first-timers. Your guide teaches everything you need before you leave the ground.
How hard is it?
Ashley Gorge sectors are graded 1 (easiest) to 6 (hardest) on the Fletcher/Smith via ferrata scale. The Outlaw half day sticks to grade 1 and 2 sectors. The Toothy Grin Topout full day adds steeper, more exposed grade 3 climbing.
What if I get scared or tired partway?
Your guide sets the pace and knows the exit points along the route. We can turn around or shorten the trip.
Why hire a guide?
Ashley Gorge is long and committing. A guide means hands-on instruction, someone checking every clip, a pace that fits your group, and a trained professional if anything goes wrong.
Can kids come?
Yes, ages 8 and up, if they meet the 62 inch reach and 90 lb minimum weight. Guests under 16 must be with a parent or guardian.
Ready to climb Ashley Gorge?
Pick a trip and a date. We handle the gear, the instruction and the safety.