Tahoe Via Ferrata: Add this Lake Tahoe Adventure to Your Bucket List!
- Gabriella Viola
- 18 hours ago
- 3 min read
Scale the granite cliffs of Palisades Tahoe on this unforgettable guided climb.
If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure in Lake Tahoe, the Tahoe Via Ferrata should be on your list. In this post, I’m sharing what it was like to climb it for the first time—and what to expect if you’re thinking about trying it yourself.
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What is the Tahoe Via Ferrata?
Located at Palisades Tahoe in Olympic Valley and operated by Alpenglow Expeditions, the Tahoe Via Ferrata is a guided climbing experience on a massive granite face above the valley. The route features fixed steel cables and anchors, allowing climbers of all skill levels to safely ascend while remaining clipped in the entire time. No experience necessary.
Getting Started
Our day started at The Village at Palisades Tahoe, where we met our guide, geared up with helmets, harnesses, and safety lanyards, and hopped in a 4x4 shuttle that took us up the mountain to the base of the route.
At the base, we had a quick orientation and learned how to clip and slide our carabiners along the safety cable. There are two routes to choose from, and we went with the Skyline Traverse, which features exposed ledges, chimneys, and two monkey bridges.
Beginning the Climb
We started on a mix of granite slabs and ledges. Nothing was technically difficult, but as a first-timer, my adrenaline definitely kicked in. As we made our way up, we couldn’t help but notice the incredible views of the valley below.
First Monkey Bridge
Soon we reached our first monkey bridge, a perfect warm-up for the bigger one that comes later. I was a little wobbly and unsure at first, but once I made it across, I felt totally exhilarated.
Vertical & Exposed Sections
After crossing the Monkey Bridge, we took a short break to take in the scenery before continuing upward into some of the more exposed sections. These parts were super fun and pushed me outside of my comfort zone—but in the best way.
Super Monkey Bridge
As we neared the end of the route, we arrived at the "Super Monkey Bridge." It’s about 50 feet long and only has one cable for your hands and one for your feet. I shuffled my way across (still a little nervous!), but it was such an awesome feeling to make it to the other side.
This bridge is also one of the best photo ops of the entire climb, so make sure someone snaps a shot of you crossing with the mountains in the background!
Wrapping Up the Tour
The route finishes just below the tram tower, and if your timing’s right, you might catch the tram passing overhead. We unhooked from the cables, finished the tour, and then hiked down a mellow trail to meet our shuttle.
I hope you enjoyed my guide on the Tahoe Via Ferrata!
I seriously loved this experience and highly recommend it if you’re looking for an epic activity in Lake Tahoe. Before you go, subscribe to the blog so you don’t miss the latest blog posts, videos, and other good stuff. You can also check out more adventures on Instagram and YouTube!
