Ashley Gorge · Vernal, Utah

Plan Your Trip.

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

The Route.

The Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata is the longest public via ferrata in the Western Hemisphere. Set in Ashley National Forest outside Vernal, Utah, the route climbs through canyon terrain protected by fixed rungs, cable, and two suspension bridges. Open March 1 – November 1, sunrise to sunset.

Sector A

Outlaw

2B–3B

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

Sector B

The Pump

3C–4C

The longest and hardest Phase 1 sector. One-way once you start. Commit only if your group is ready.

Sector C

The Soup

3B–3C

Features the iconic Dynomite Sky Bridge — the most-photographed moment on the route. Physically demanding but the views pay off.

Sector D

Abduction

3C–4C

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

~8 miles

Full route distance

8–10 hrs

Full day car-to-car

2B–4C

Difficulty range

Getting There.

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.

Your Day, Step by Step.

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. Plan for 8–10 hours for the standard Phase 1 route; allow 9–10+ hours if tackling Phase 2 sectors.

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.

What to Bring.

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 book; minors 10–17 may participate with a parent/guardian booking and signing for them

Ready to Book?

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.

Book My Kit View the Route

Questions? Text Shaun at (435) 823-8046

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