Little Ballun – a highlight for families

Ballunspitze via ferrata in Galtür

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The Little Ballun via ferrata is a highlight for children and families. Once you have tackled the varied climbing sections, you’re rewarded with splendid views of the Silvretta mountain world, the Paznaun region and Ischgl.

As most sections have a difficulty level of A/B, the via ferrata is perfectly suitable for kids aged eight and above. However, as some of the grade B sections are a bit more exposed, the tour is recommended in good weather only. The best time to visit the via ferrate is from June to end of September.

Good to know: Although the prehistoric via ferrata is perfectly secured, you should have basic climbing experience as well as plenty of strength and stamina to tackle this route. Bring appropriate equipment such as a helmet, harness, via ferrata set and solid footwear and don’t forget to pack enough to eat and drink especially when climbing with children.

The via ferrata in a nutshell

difficulty: easy, mostly grade A/B, four grade-B sections
finish altitude:  2,165 m
duration:  between 30 and 90 minutes for adults, between 90 and 120 minutes for children
vertical metres: 100 m
safeguards: continuous steel cable (12 mm), bolts, pegs and grips 
orientation:  east

Route details

The approach
Take the Alpkogelbahn cable car from Galtür up to the mountain station. From there, follow the trail marked by red wooden pegs in a southerly direction until you reach the entrance.

The via ferrata
This varied prehistoric tour features a short ropeway and several steep rock sections. The vertical sections are secured by ladders and iron clamps. The rockface boasts plenty of natural and artificial footholds at a convenient distance, making it easy to cover more difficult passages. The easier parts of the via ferrata are also secured by steel cables and chains. Adults need about 30 to 90 minutes to cover the altitude difference of 100 metres. Keep in mind that children might need longer.  

The descent
At the exit of the via ferrata, follow the red wooden pegs in a north-westerly direction. After crossing a steep ski run, there’s a steep descent down to the mountain station of Alpkogelbahn cable car.

Map TIROL