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What is a “fixed-rope route”?
A fixed-rope route (“Klettersteig” or “via ferrata” [iron
way]) is a climbing route with firmly installed safety points
and artificial hold points. In difficult places routes are secured
with wire cables, hooks, pegs and ladders. With the
help of a fixed-rope set, which can be used with such safety
points, even a rather moderate climber can cover difficult
terrain without the necessary rock equipment. Nonetheless
ropes are necessary. Each mountaineer looks after himself
and secures himself when clipping to the fixed cable.
A few tips on fixed rope routes
Fixed rope routes are not hiking trails. On steep mountain
terrain risks can never be totally eliminated. These
risks can be kept to a minimum through the use of proper
equipment: helmet, mountaineering harness, Via Ferrata
Sets and gloves. Never underestimate the difficulties. Beginners
should start with less demanding fixed rope route.
Get used to your equipment at home before trying it in
the mountains the first time! Put on your equipment at
the very start of the route. On fixed rope routes, as in all
alpine climbing, the greatest factors of risk come from
rock slides and weather. When a thunderstorm is rising,
get away from the fixed rope route (or better, don’t even
get onto them)! The steel cables of Via Ferrata routes are
gigantic lighting rods. Cautious climbing often greatly
reduces the danger of rock slides for those behind you.
Fixed rope route should be fun. So don´t push yourself
to the limit. As ways remember the possibility of turning
back (for reasons of weather, or excessive difficulty). Test
the reliability of safety cables (as far as possible). Maintain
a safe distance from the climbers in front of you. Report
damaged installations (such as loose anchoring or frayed
cables) to the alpine guides or the tourist office at the
base camp.