The World's First Urban Via Ferrata Takes You High Above Columbus, Ohio

What to know about the Quarry Trails via ferrata

Photo courtesy Experience Columbus

Photo courtesy Experience Columbus

If you’ve never climbed a via ferrata route, it’s effectively “rock climbing lite.” Climbers traverse and ascend the fixed course routed by a steel cable, climbing up ladders, rungs, and rock while fastened to the cable via carabiners and a harness. The Quarry Trails via ferrata course leads climbers across 1,040 feet of course over what MetroParks, which operates the via ferrata, describes as “intermediate rocky terrain.” Highlights of the climb include a 54-foot steel staircase that will put your bootwork to the test and a 90-foot-long suspension bridge that you’ll use legs and hands to climb across while fastened into the course route.

MetroParks notes that it takes most users about 90 minutes to climb the course. Keep in mind that once you’re at the top you must climb back down – though this process is much faster and quite fun. You must register in advance and will be led by a guide up the climb, though registration is currently free. Kids over 14 are welcome, as long as they’re at least five feet tall and weigh 88 pounds or more.

Photo courtesy Experience Columbus

At points during the climb, you’ll be more than 100 feet above the ground below – and there’s also the bridge crossing over a scenic pond. All climbers will be outfitted with a helmet, harness, and any needed safety equipment. You should bring your own sunglasses and gloves, as the cable and bridge are better handled by protected hands. There’s no better way to feel like you’re high in the alpine when you’re actually in central Ohio.