Roen via ferrata

Scenic & beginner-friendly – the easy ridge route to Monte Roen

The Roen via ferrata is an ideal ferrata for beginners or pleasure climbers who are looking for a combination of easy climbing and great panorama. The route runs along the east flank of Monte Roen (2,116 m) and offers above all one thing on its way to the summit: spectacular views of the Adige Valley, the Dolomites, and the Brenta Group.

Thanks to the good protection and the rather moderate difficulty, the route can be easily combined with a hike or even an MTB tour – especially rewarding is the combination with a climb of the scenic summit.

What makes this via ferrata special

The route starts near the Überetscher Hütte and mostly runs on well-stepped ramps, ledges, and short gullies. Two short sections with difficulty level B are the technical key points, the rest of the route is easier and manageable for sure-footed beginners.

The route is solidly secured with steel ropes and allows a safe but still exciting ridge crossing. After the exit, it is worth making a detour to the nearby summit of Monte Roen – the panoramic view over the South Tyrolean lowlands is impressive.

With about 230 climbing vertical meters, the ferrata itself is quite short, but due to the longer approach and descent, the total walking time is about 4 hours and 15 minutes. The route faces east to southeast and can be climbed in dry conditions from spring to late autumn. Wetness or snow conditions can become problematic though.

Approach and descent

The approach starts at the Mendel Pass at the chairlift. From there, you can reach the mountain station either by lift or on foot (approx. 45 minutes). Then follow trail No. 500 to Malga Roen and from there go left on a forest road to the Überetscher hut. The route starts directly at the hut – after a few minutes you reach the start at the foot of the wall.

From the exit of the via ferrata, a marked trail leads in about 15 minutes to the summit of Monte Roen. For the descent, follow trail No. 500 again to Malga Roen and then back along the known path to Mendel Pass.

Arrival and parking

Arrival via the A22 to Bolzano, then on the expressway in the direction of Merano to the Eppan exit. From there continue via Kaltern on the SS42 up to the Mendel Pass. At the top of the pass, there are parking possibilities directly at the Roen chairlift – the starting point of the tour.

Tour info at a glance

• Difficulty level: B (two short B sections, otherwise easier)
• Climbing length: approx. 230 vertical meters
• Total elevation: approx. 930 vertical meters
• Climbing time: approx. 0:45 hours
• Total time (incl. approach & descent): approx. 4:15 hours
• Protection: good (steel cables, continuously secured)
• Orientation: east / southeast
• Approach time: approx. 1:30 hours
• Descent time: approx. 2:00 hours
• Recommended season: spring to autumn (not in wet or snowy conditions)
• Equipment: complete via ferrata equipment and helmet

Guided via ferrata tours

For all those who prefer to experience the Roen via ferrata with expert accompaniment, guided via ferrata tours are regularly offered. Experienced mountain guides show you the most beautiful spots, explain the technique and provide more safety – ideal for beginners or all who want to discover the route in a relaxed way.