What is a Via Ferrata?
Via Ferrata is latin for the ‘Iron Way’. Via Ferrata routes are quite common in the Alps of Europe and have been a popular mountain sport for over 75 years. The Fox Via Ferrata is 40km west of Nordegg, Alberta. It was the first Via Ferrata built in Alberta in 2008.
What is the Fox Via Ferrata like?
The nature of this trip is that you will be guided up a rock face without needing the skill set of a rock climber. The Fox Via Ferrata is one of approximately only 15 Via Ferrata’s in Canada. It has the most staggeringly beautiful scenery of the David Thompson Highway Corridor mountains and the stunning Abraham Lake.
Where is the ‘Fox’ tour?
The Mt. Stelfox Via Ferrata is above Abraham Lake and is located 30 km west of the town of Nordegg, Alberta or 2 hrs north of Banff, Alberta. Access from Canmore by driving west via the Trans Canada Highway to Lake Louise. The drive then heads north on highway 93 toward Jasper and then finally east on Highway 11 (David Thompson Highway) where it bisects the Cline River.
Where do we meet?
We typically meet at Cline River Helicopter Tours if you are an Albertan living east or north of Nordegg. Residents of southern Alberta will meet in Canmore and drive the Trans Canada Highway to just Lake Louise, then drive north on Icefields Parkway to Saskatchewan Crossing. Often when we are driving up the Icefields Parkway towards the Fox Via Ferrata we are treated to seeing all kinds of wildlife such as moose, bears and even bald eagles on the drive there and back.
How long is the day on the ‘Fox’?
The Fox Via Feratta route is about 180 metres in vertical height or roughly 600 ft high. It takes roughly 2.25 hrs to drive from Canmore to the access parking lot. The approach to the base is a picturesque 25-30 minute hike to the base of the Via Feratta. The Fox takes 1.5 hours to climb. The descent takes roughly 40 minutes to walk back down the trail to the car parking area from the top of the Fox.
What will my Via Ferrata adventure look like?
When we arrive at the base of the Fox, we will show you how to put on your harness, helmet and via ferrata lanyards. We will then demonstrate how to secure yourself into the cable with your lanyards. Lastly we will show you how to climb the steel rungs of the Fox efficiently and safely. The climb will take place at a very leisurely pace ( 4hr tour total) so that you can enjoy the day and take in the stunning views of Abraham Lake and Mt. Elliott.
Who can do this?
If you have moderate fitness and are comfortable with short day hikes you can absolutely do this Via Ferrata tour.
What is included?
Remember, all equipment is provided for you and included in the price. Your CanRock Mountain Guide is an ACMG/IFMGA certified Mountain Guide. Your safety and comfort is very important to us.
CanRock Mountain Guides will contribute 20% of our trip revenue toward the development of further Via Ferrata routes.
Get in touch with us today at info@can-rock.com or call us directly at 403 609 0795 to inquire about a day of Via Feratta this summer or use our booking page on the site. CanRock Mountain Guides provides safety oriented, authentic alpine experiences.
Are there other Via Ferrata close by?
Yes! There is another Via Ferrata only a few kilometres down the road from the Fox on Mt. Stelfox. It is located west on the David Thompson Highway on Mt. Earnest Ross and this Via Ferrata is steeper, longer and more technical. It is approximately 250 meters long and takes about an hour longer to climb and descend compared to the Fox.
More about ‘From Nordegg with Love’ Via Ferrata
We only guide the ‘From Nordegg with Love’ Via Ferrata with folks who have demonstrated competence on the ‘Fox.’ Or who already have an intermediate level of skill as a rock climber or mountaineer. This Canadian classic Via Ferrata is 3 guests per guide. This trip costs $185 per person for the day. Again, all equipment is provided on this mighty steep but really fun Via Ferrata.
Via Ferrata tours running daily. Summer 2022
What to bring
On your Mt. Stelfox Via Ferrata trip you will need comfortable clothing for the mountains, suitable footwear and a small day pack to keep light but have all the things you’ll need. We recommend running shoes or hiking boots as they give enough support in the terrain.
Weather and Clothing
The weather in the Rockies is highly variable and you will want to bring a selection of outer layers to stay comfortable. However, you also will want to layer down when conditions are warm and sunny.
It is critical to have a waterproof shell jacket as well as an insulated jacket. Bring sunscreen along with a brimmed hat and good quality sunglasses for eye protection. A collapsible hiking pole is helpful to have for the hike down.
Food and Drink
Food and drink should be brought along as well. We recommend bringing a lunch with a few healthy things to snack on and some water.
4
$550
$138
5
$690
$138
6
$828
$138
7
$966
$138
8
$1104
$138
9
$1242
$138
10
$1380
$138
*Please add 5% sales tax to the above amounts. *Additional expenses such as food, gear rental, park fees, transportation or accommodation not included. Max 6:1 Participant to Guide Ratio on 'The Fox'. Max 3:1 on 'From Nordegg with Love'.