Fixed rope routes

Moiry via ferrata

Klettersteig Moiry

Grimentz

Graded "very difficult", this via ferrata gives a vertiginous view of the Lac de Moiry! You can look way down through the empty space to the beautiful turquoise waters of the Moiry dam.

Difficulty

Difficult

Length

2.52 km

Duration

2:30 h

Description

The first part ascends a vertical wall, ending at a spur above the void, with a magical view over the Val d'Anniviers. You then cross an easy plateau with a small vertical step to reach the second part, and also the escape route. The second part begins with an overhanging traverse 20 metres long.

Turn-by-turn directions

From the car park at the foot of the dam, follow the road for 150 metres and then the path that climbs on the right to reach the start of the via ferrata. The first section leads up a vertical rock face and finishes at a projecting spur with an enchanting view over the Val d’Anniviers. At the top, you can either carry on climbing up (medium difficulty) or head off to the right – in which case you can either exit the via ferrata or continue to climb. If you continue your ascent, you enter a difficult section which begins with a big overhang – 20 metres long, and very physical – before following a ridge. A little further, a rocky ledge with a picnic table allows you to have a snack while enjoying a dramatic view of the dam. Refuelled, you can continue via a big rope net or along the normal itinerary. From the exit, you can descend via the direct trail or walk across the dam and follow the footpath to return to the car park.

Start

Moiry dam (2114m)

Destination

Moiry dam (2114m)

Author's recommendation

Tip: before or after tackling the via ferrata, take time to visit the charming village of Grimentz, with its wooden chalets bronzed by the sun and its balconies adorned with geraniums.

Technical information

Altitude

2311m

2108m

Ascent

+480m

Descent

-461m

Stamina

Experience

Landscape

Best time of the year

  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

Tags

  • Scenic
  • Geological highlights
  • Insider tip
  • Round trip
  • Refreshment stops available
  • Completely cable-secured
Getting there
Information

Public transport

Frequent train connections on the Simplon line to Sierre. From there, take the post bus to Val d'Anniviers. Change in Vissoie and take the bus direction Moiry dam.

Approach

Take the exit 29 (Sierre-Est) of the A9 highway and continue to the Val d'Anniviers. In the village of Vissoie, turn right on the "Route de Grimentz" and continue to the village of Grimentz. Cross the village and continue on the "Route de Moiry" until you arrive at the dam.

Parking

Parking at the Moiry Dam

Equipment

All climbers must wear a harness. Because of the risk of falling rocks along the route, a helmet is also essential. Ensure you have sturdy footwear and appropriate clothing, and bring a small rucksack with water and a snack. A suitable pair of gloves will protect your fingers and knuckles from grazes.

Safety information

Weather conditions: before setting off to tackle a via ferrata, it is important to check the weather forecast. Bad conditions can make climbing dangerous – particularly in stormy weather.

Rockfalls: because of the risk of falling rocks – usually caused by climbers higher up or by animals – all climbers are strongly advised to wear a helmet.

Safety: always leave sufficient distance between yourself and the climber ahead. There should never be more than one person between two anchor points.

Additional information

Rental:

  • Do Sports sport shop in Grimentz

Find more information about the destination here:

Literature

Eugen E. Hüsler, Daniel Anker : Die Klettersteige der Schweiz 

Maps

SwissTopo Maps 1:25'000: 1327 Evolène

Source

This activity is brought to you by Valais/Wallis Promotion