The term “via ferrata” means “the iron road.” This most commonly refers to mountain roads in the Dolomite mountains equipped with fixed cables, ladders, and bridges. These vie ferrate (plural of via ferrata) were used in the First World War to connect otherwise isolated passages. They are now 
used by tourists and alpine climbers, making passages to historic sites and vistas much more accessible. Climbing vie ferrate in the Dolomites can be a thrilling adventure, for both hikers and rock climbers.
Climbing a via ferrata can range in difficulty, and routes are graded, in Italy, on a scale of 1-5. Specialized equipment is available for climbing via ferrata. Traditional rock climbing equipment is recommended for climbing via ferrata, as well as special via ferrata climbing equipment, which consists of extra lengths of rope and a braking device. Children climbing vie ferrate should use special braking devices appropriate to their weight, as the standard devices commercially available are intended for adults. Via ferrata climbing also uses specialized carabiners, with a larger opening and locking mechanism than those for rock climbing.
Precautions should be taken seriously, since it is possible to be seriously injured while climbing via ferratas. Although one does not fall as far from a via ferrata as one could when rock climbing, the impact of the fall and the possibility of falling rocks or other dangers is much higher. Nevertheless, climbing the vie ferrate in the Dolomites is an incredible experience that should not be missed.
