Mountaineering: Marmolada, Italy

Marmolada is the highest mountain of the Dolomites, a spectacular section of the Alps. It consists of a ridge running west to east, composed of several summits. At an elevation of 10,968 feet, Punta Penia is the highest summit, followed by Punta Rocca (with an aerial tramway) and three other summits.

The West Ridge Via Ferrata is one of the oldest and most popular via ferratas in the Dolomites. The first belaying of this route with steel clamps, pins, and fixed ropes was finished in 1903.

A lift facility runs from Fedaia Lake to Pian dei Fiacconi, the starting point of the tour. The start of the via ferrata can be reached by crossing the Vernell glacier towards Forcella Marmolada. The West Ridge Via Ferrata leads up to Forcella Marmolada and continues to Punta Penia.

The descent on the normal route leads down a snow field, followed by class 4 rock, followed by the Marmolada glacier.

Photos 1-6 and 12 credit: Horst S.