Via Ferrata Pisciadu
Description
A very popular classic, but still requires some experience and physical fitness. A moderately demanding ferrata, fully equipped with a steel cable. Numerous rungs, iron steps, and a ladder help overcome the difficult sections.
Access & starting point
Via Val Gardena to Passo Gardena. From there, descend briefly to the other side to reach a large parking area just before a hairpin bend (sign: Ferrata), or from Corvara heading toward Passo Gardena.
However, because access is relatively easy, in peak season or on a great day, it is highly recommend to avoid this ferrata because it is overflowing with people and groups.
Approach
From the parking lot (sign), walk almost flat toward the east. Climb the slope of mountain pines to the start of a short steep step secured with a steel cable and iron rungs. Then continue left on the trail heading southeast to the actual start of the ferrata.
Route
The first two-thirds are moderate climbing, well protected with cables most of the way. The last section is very steep but well secured, with a steel ladder a small suspension bridge, which is the end of the Via Ferrata. From here its a short walk to Rifugio F. Cavazza at Pisciadù (2587m) where you can take a break.
Technical Details
The lower section develops on an inclined slope, while the upper part is steep with exposed sections. The difficult sections are made more manageable with iron rungs and good hand and footholds. The distances between anchors and the steel cable are short.
Descent
Follow the wide path in the direction of the cable car, then, following the then, following the anchor bolts continue into the Val Setus gully and return to the starting point via its steep scree path.
Despite steel cable protection, the descent through the Val Setus gully can be very challenging, especially early in the season, as remaining snow can last for a long time and ice axe and crampons are then highly recommended.
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