GorgeGearCoVia Ferrata · Roosevelt, UT
Ashley Gorge · Vernal, Utah

PlanYourTrip.

Everything you need to know before you go — the route, the drive, what to bring, and how to get your gear.

TheRoute.

The Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata is the longest via ferrata in the United States. Set in Ashley National Forest outside Vernal, Utah, the route climbs through 400 feet of exposed canyon terrain protected by fixed rungs, cable, and a high suspension-bridge crossing. Open March–November.

Sector A

Outlaw

K3

The entrance — a technical downclimb into the gorge. Sets the tone for the day.

Sector B

The Pump

K4

The longest and hardest sector. One-way once you start. Commit only if your group is ready.

Sector C

The Soup

K3

Features the Dynomite Sky Bridge and T-Rex Terrace overlook. Physically demanding but the views pay off.

Sector D

Abduction

K3–K4

400 ft exposed climb out of the canyon. The grand finale. Most people's favorite sector.

~8 miles
Full route distance
5–7 hrs
Car-to-car (fit group)
K2–K4
Difficulty range

GettingThere.

Ashley Gorge is in Ashley National Forest, about 20 minutes from Vernal, Utah. If you're coming from the Wasatch Front, you'll drive right through Roosevelt — which is exactly where you pick up your gear, self-service, 24/7.

From Salt Lake City

Take I-15 south, then east on US-40 through Heber City, Duchesne, and into Roosevelt.

Pick up your gear self-service, 24/7, at our Roosevelt lockers.

Continue on US-40 to Vernal. Ashley Gorge is ~20 minutes south.

Total drive: ~3.5 hours

From Provo / Utah County

Head east on US-40 through Heber, Duchesne, and into Roosevelt.

Pick up your gear self-service, 24/7, at our Roosevelt lockers.

Continue on US-40 to Vernal. Ashley Gorge is ~20 minutes south via US-191.

Total drive: ~3 hours

Why pick up in Roosevelt? Most rental options are in Vernal — meaning you'd arrive, hunt down a shop, and then drive 20 more minutes to the trailhead. Our self-service lockers in Roosevelt are right on US-40, just 45 minutes from the trailhead, so you arrive ready to go. It also means you can return the gear on your way home without backtracking into Vernal — any time, day or night.

YourDay,StepbyStep.

Day before
Sign both waivers
Gorge Gear Co waiver (during booking) + Uintah County waiver. Carry proof on the route.
On your way
Pick up gear in Roosevelt
Self-service, 24/7 — use your emailed locker code at our lockers behind Ross Quick Change Oil and Lube. Takes 5 minutes.
~45 min more driving
Drive to Vernal
Head east on US-40. The route is in Ashley National Forest, roughly 20 minutes outside Vernal.
Start early
Hit the trailhead
Start by 7–8am if possible. The canyon is hot midday in summer. The full route takes 5–7 hours.
After the route
Return gear
Return your gear to the same Roosevelt locker before midnight on the last day of your rental — no coordination needed.

WhattoBring.

At least 2L of water per person
Non-negotiable. The canyon is hot and the route is long.
Sturdy closed-toe shoes
Approach shoes or hiking boots. No sandals.
Layers
Canyon shade is cold in the morning. Desert sun is brutal by noon.
Sunscreen and a hat
Exposed sections have no shade.
Snacks and lunch
Plan for a full day out.
Gloves (optional)
Iron rungs can be rough on hands. Fit a glove that doesn't bunch.
Offline maps downloaded
Cell service is limited to none inside the canyon.
Via ferrata kit
Harness, lanyard, and helmet — required, not optional.

Waivers&Requirements.

Gorge Gear Co Waiver

Signed during your booking. Covers liability for rental gear use. Completed digitally — no printing needed.

Included in the booking flow
Uintah County Waiver

Required by the county for all climbers, regardless of whose gear you use. Sign online and carry proof on the route — screenshot or printed copy.

Sign county waiver →
Route Requirements
Weight: 90–265 lbs (40–120 kg) — required by county rules
Reach: Minimum 62 inches from the ground
Age: 18+ to rent gear; minors require a guardian

ReadytoBook?

Reserve your kit online. Pick it up self-service, 24/7, from our Roosevelt locker on your way to Vernal. Return it on the way home.

Questions? Text Shaun at (435) 823-8046

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