Back in 2018, Alpenglow Expeditions opened Lake Tahoe‘s first-ever via ferrata, opening up access to the towering Tram Face. And now, it’s back open for summer 2026!
Via ferrata, an Italian term meaning Iron Road, is a protected climbing method in which harnessed climbers clip into permanent cables and metal steps to traverse difficult terrain. The first routes originated in the Austrian Alps and the Italian Dolomites nearly 200 years ago, and took off during the First World War when troops built hundreds of via ferratas into the Dolomites’ sheer limestone cliffs.
The Tahoe Via Ferrata is a guided climbing tour adventure that traverses an 800-foot granite face over Olympic Valley.
Here’s a closer look…
Tahoe Via Ferrata
The Tahoe Via Ferrata begins at Tram Plaza in Palisades Village, where climbers gear up with a harness and helmet. Participants can practice clipping in and out on a beginner segment before progressing to more advanced vertical slabs, exposed ledges, and “monkey bridges” made of cables.
Despite the towering views and steep angles, the via ferrata keeps you connected to a cable 100% of the time, making an otherwise intimidating climbing experience safe for beginners.
Climbers can choose from 2-, 3-, and 4-hour guided climbs up the Tram Face. While no experience is required, each outing requires a base level of fitness to hike and climb for several hours. Participants must be at least 3’11” tall and weigh between 88 and 264 pounds, or otherwise book a private group.
Tours start at $199 per person and are usually available from the late spring through the early fall. This year, the Tahoe Via Ferrata opened early on May 2nd, and it’s currently running daily trips.
Learn more and book your trip at TahoeVia.com.
