Telluride Via Ferrata

Via Feratta: Path of Iron

Date: 7/7/2025
Partner: Carl Dowdy
Trailhead: Bridal Veil Falls TH
Route: Ingram Creek to Marshall Creek (East to West)
Distance: 4.3miles
Vertical: 1200ft
Duration: 2 hours 20minutes car to car
GPX

A great little outing with big exposure and incredible views. Don't miss this one!

Chuck Kroger, a renowned climber and builder, was instrumental in creating the Telluride Via Ferrata, often referred to as the "Krogeratta" in his honor. He was an early Yosemite climber who moved to Telluride in the 1970s and became deeply involved in the community. He passed away on December 25, 2007, after battling pancreatic cancer.

Word has it that when Kroger became sick with cancer the via ferrata was not yet complete. His friends and community immediately swung into action to help him complete it before he passed away.

Kroger was inspired by European Via Ferrata routes and, after settling in Telluride, he envisioned and built the Telluride Via Ferrata. He used his climbing skills, ironworking expertise, and fabrication abilities to create this unique trail.

Chuck Kroger - Mountain Project
Telluride Via Ferrata - Denver Post