Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata opens for 2026 season near Vernal, offering ‘iron way’ climbing adventure

The Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata trail near Vernal, Utah. Photo: Courtesy of Uintah County

VERNAL, Utah — The Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata, billed as Utah’s first public via ferrata course and the longest public route of its kind in the country, has opened for the 2026 climbing season.

Located within Ashley National Forest and 12 miles outside Vernal, the route is designed to make technical-style climbing more accessible, according to tourism officials. The trail is managed by Uintah County, and Vernal-based Dyno Outfitters offers guided options and rentals for climbers ranging from beginners to experienced alpinists. Highly skilled climbers can access the route independently after signing waivers and following posted regulations.

“We are definitely seeing a growing interest in outdoor rock climbing, and the Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata makes the sometimes-intimidating sport much more accessible,” said Uintah County Tourism & Events Director Lesha Coltharp. “The route gives climbers of all abilities intimate access to the captivating landscape of Ashley Gorge and an exhilarating physical challenge along the way.”

A via ferrata—Italian for “the iron way”—originated in the Dolomite Mountains during World War I and has since evolved into a recreational climbing system. Modern routes use fixed steel cables, ladders, rungs, and bridges to allow participants to traverse steep terrain while clipped in for safety.

The Ashley Gorge route features multiple climbing lines designed to accommodate different comfort levels, from introductory sections to more exposed and technical segments.

Beyond the climbing experience, officials are positioning the via ferrata as part of a broader outdoor recreation hub in northeastern Utah. Visitors can explore nearby attractions including Dinosaur National Monumen or the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum, which connects visitors to the region’s prehistoric past.

Red Fleet State Park, Steinaker State Park, and Dinosaur National Monument are also nearby.

Resources for lodging, dining, and trip planning in the Vernal area are available through dinoland.com, as officials anticipate increased visitation throughout the 2026 season.