It’s an exciting time for climbing at Wyoming’s largest ski resort.
This summer, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort will open three new via ferrata climbing routes on its legendary Corbet’s Couloir. There, climbers will navigate the storied terrain on a privately guided climb above the valley floor. Climbers will use metal rungs, ladders, and suspended bridges attached to a continuous cable, with no experience required to enjoy the summer adventure at Corbet’s.
Translating to “Iron Way,” via ferrata dates back to World War II, with Italian soldiers building these routes to safely move along mountain passes. Today, via ferratas are scattered throughout the Alps with climbers flocking to them for summer adventure. With its own via ferrata system, Jackson Hole has brought a slice of European alpine culture to North America with a special flare.
Climbing at Corbet’s Couloir
To access Corbet’s Via Ferrata routes, guests will first ride the iconic Aerial Tram, then hike into the couloir before climbing. Next, guests will ascend the Tensleep Bowl, more than 4,000 vertical feet above the valley floor. There, they will choose one of three routes: Tectonic Traverse approach, Exposure Therapy, or Commitment Issues. Routes will feature vertical climbing alongside natural crystal formations and exposed traverses, leading to two suspension bridges: the 50-foot Iron Journey bridge, a Burma-style bridge hanging 100 feet above the ground, and the Epiphany bridge, a dual-cable bridge with sweeping views 400 feet above the ground.
Before climbing the Corbet’s routes, guides will take guests to Casper Buttress for a warm-up. The resort requires guests to warm up before climbing Corbet’s. Casper Buttress includes a multitude of routes from beginner to advanced. After climbing at Casper, guides will decide if guests are ready for the strenuous routes at Corbet’s.
The three added routes at Corbet’s give Jackson Hole a total of 20 via ferrata Routes. It is the largest and most comprehensive network of Via Ferrata climbs in North America.
Climbs at Corbet’s Couloir are full-day only, starting at 9:15 a.m. and ending at 3:15 p.m. Guests must be over 12 years old and must weigh over 88 pounds. The resort provides guides, helmets, and harnesses, and guests must bring active clothing, a small backpack, and water.
Reservations can be made on Jackson Hole’s website.
