Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata Phase 2: Every New Sector Explained (2026)

The Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata opened its Phase 2 expansion in the 2026 season, adding six new climbing sectors and several optional variations to the already-longest via ferrata in the United States. If you visited before 2026 and thought you'd done the full route — you haven't seen everything. Here's a complete breakdown of every new sector, what to expect, and how hard each one is.

What Was Phase 1?

The original AGVF route (Phase 1) included four named sectors: Outlaw (S1–S2), Land Before Climb (S3), The Pump (S4), The Soup (S6), and Abduction (S10) — the primary exit. This covers the core descent into the canyon, the most physically demanding wall (The Pump), the suspension bridge crossing, and the canyon exit. Phase 1 alone is a full day for most parties.

Phase 2 Overview

Phase 2 added six new numbered sectors and several optional variations across the large western prow of Ashley Gorge. The expansion creates direct connections between previously separate sectors, adds multiple new topout options, and introduces the most demanding climbing on the entire route. Total route complexity roughly doubles with Phase 2 included.

The New Sectors

Thagomizer (Sector 5) — Difficulty: Hard

A difficult connecting sector that links The Pump (S4) directly to The Soup (S6) — eliminating what was previously a full downclimb and lengthy approach hike. The Thagomizer is not an easier alternative to the old connection. Climbers should be well-rested and have strong technique before committing to this sector. If you're fatiguing on The Pump, take the bypass trail instead.

T-Rex Terrace (Sector 7) — Difficulty: Moderate

An exposed continuation beyond The Soup that provides access to several Phase 2 options and topout routes. Good views and a natural rest point before deciding which Phase 2 lines to attempt. Most parties capable of The Soup can handle T-Rex Terrace.

Toothy Grin Topout (Sector 8) — Difficulty: Moderate–Hard

A topout route from the central wall connecting climbers from T-Rex Terrace to the Toothy Grin Topout Trail and the Canyon Rim Trail. Provides an alternative finish line for parties who want to exit via the canyon rim rather than Abduction.

Jur-Ass-Is-Cutoff (Sector 9) — Difficulty: Moderate

A connecting route through the Phase 2 wall that provides another option for moving between T-Rex Terrace and the Jur-Ass-Kicked wall. Useful for routing decisions when managing group energy and time.

Jur-Ass-Kicked (Sector 11) — Difficulty: Very Hard

The most demanding wall on the entire Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata. Jur-Ass-Kicked is a sustained, exposed big-wall sector that forms one of the primary climbing lines through Phase 2. If you're not an experienced via ferrata or rock climber, do not attempt this without a guide. The sustained nature of the climbing will exhaust less experienced parties quickly, and the exposure is significant throughout.

Exposure Therapy (Sector 12) — Difficulty: Very Hard (Expert Recommended)

A highly exposed upper-wall sector with dramatic positioning and access to several Phase 2 variations. The highlight — and the crux — is the Helix Ladder, a technical climbing feature positioned over 600 feet above the canyon floor. Exposure Therapy is not recommended for inexperienced climbers without a professional guide. If you're considering this sector, be honest about your experience level. The name isn't ironic.

Jur-Ass-Kicked Summit (Sector 13) — Difficulty: Hard

The final summit section of the far prow, finishing on the canyon rim and connecting with the return trail system. A satisfying finish to the full Phase 2 experience for parties with the fitness and skills to get there.

Phase 2 Optional Variations

Beyond the named sectors, Phase 2 includes several optional route variations for climbers wanting more challenge or different lines: Launch Sequence, Space Man, Womb Fight, Tiny Arm Turnoff, and Roswell Lite. These provide additional exposure, difficulty, and route choices within the larger climbing sectors.

How Long Does Phase 2 Add?

Adding Phase 2 sectors to a full Phase 1 day significantly extends your time on the route. Attempting Jur-Ass-Kicked, Exposure Therapy, and the summit will add 2–4 hours depending on group size and pace. Plan for a very early start — 5–6am — if you're attempting the complete route in a single day. Multi-day trips are worth considering for Phase 2.

What Gear Do You Need for Phase 2?

The same gear required for Phase 1 covers Phase 2: a UIAA-certified via ferrata lanyard, sit harness, and climbing helmet. There's no additional gear required, though you may want gloves for the extended time on iron rungs. The greater demands of Phase 2 make proper gear fit more important — a lanyard that's slightly too long or a harness that's a bit loose on Phase 1 becomes a real problem on Jur-Ass-Kicked.

Gorge Gear Co rents complete via ferrata kits (harness, lanyard, helmet) for $40. Pickup is self-service, 24/7, from our Roosevelt locker on US-40 on your way to Ashley Gorge. Multi-day rental available — $5 per day after the initial 2-day period.

Should You Hire a Guide for Phase 2?

For Phase 1 (Outlaw, The Pump, The Soup, Abduction), most fit adults with the right gear can self-guide. For Phase 2, the answer depends on which sectors. Thagomizer and the connecting routes are manageable for experienced Phase 1 climbers. Jur-Ass-Kicked, Exposure Therapy, and the Summit are a different category — a guide is strongly recommended for anyone who hasn't done significant via ferrata or rock climbing before.

Ready to Attempt Phase 2?

Book your gear online at gorgegearco.com/book, pick up from our Roosevelt locker on US-40 on the way to Ashley Gorge, and go as far as your fitness and skills take you. The Phase 2 sectors will be there for your next trip if today isn't the day.