Via Ferrata del Colodri / Sentiero attrezzato del Colodri : Climbing, Hiking & Mountaineering : SummitPost

Overview

Among climbers Colodri is well-known for its amount of routes (especially in higher grades) as well as its easy accessibility. But it has also another attraction – a Via Ferrata.
This “Sentiero attrezzato” ( = well-equipped way) was build originally to provide climbers an easy descent. But in a short time it was adopted by the Ferratisti.

The Via Ferrata is short, easy and in its full length equipped with fix ropes. Experienced Ferratisti may do the iron way without their harness. For the complete ascend you should calculate about 45 minutes, but the Via Ferrata is extreme popular, so jams are pre-programmed :-/

The characteristic feature of Colodri is the combination of simplicity, easy access and the great view you can enjoy from the top. All in all it is a “training-ferrata” without difficulties that can easily compete with many of the great Ferratas in the Alps.

Please note: SP member mountaindog has posted Colodri already, but as a climbing rock. I am far from affronting or provoking mountaindog in any way! But I think Colodri is not also a wonderful climbing rock but also offers this Via Ferrata and this can be posted too. And because mountaindog's page is already a route I couldn't add another route to his one.
So if anybody finds that I should add the Via Ferrata to its "Miscellaneous Info" please contact me. If necessary I will of course delete this page (with a tear in my eye ...)

Getting There

To reach Arco you drive on the A22 to exit Rovereto Nord. Head to direction Lago di Garda until Nago. At the roundabout in Nago branch right to Arco. There will be signs for the camping area.

The entry to the Via Ferrata is on the road to the camping area Prabi, opposite the car park of the hotel. Follow the signs to the sporting-path and then branch to the left. Or just follow the other Ferrata-aspirants ;-)

Getting down

The castle of Arco seen from the top of Colodri.

After the enjoyment of the wonderful view follow the signs to the little summit. Then head west, always following the signs, and descent a stony path to the pilgrimage church Santa Maria di Làghel. From there you keep left to the old town of Arco. Cross the pedestrian zone (don’t forget to eat an ice at the piazza!) and on the other side you will find the street that will lead you to the camping area again.

Of course you can descent at the Via Ferrata too, but first you have to climb against the current, and second the descent via Santa Maria di Làghel is worth a walk!

Essential Gear

If you're not so firm with iron ways you should wear a harness and a Via Ferrata-Set. A helmet is necessary since the route is rather crowded. Climbing shoes are not necessary, usual mountain shoes will do their way.

Red tape

There is no red tape, but you mustn’t park overnight at the car park.

Images