A via ferrata along the Sajant waterfall of the Rio Ruzza. The route is suitable for trained and experienced hikers.
This via ferrata is short but absolutely spectacular. It is the classic modern via ferrata where, beyond following the weak points of the wall, attention is focused on the most spectacular passages sometimes creating new climbs. It is the only via ferrata not visible from the valley and can only be seen once you reach the starting point. It climbs along the canyon of the Rio Ruzza waterfall on the right side of the Ballino Valley.
After a pleasant walk through the woods, you will soon hear the sound of flowing water and, a little further, you will find the high wall carved by the waterfall. This via ferrata, overhanging and athletic, sometimes climbs to the left and then moves to the right of the waterfall, connected by aerial and photogenic suspension bridges. After about an hour you reach the top where a forest path leads you back down to Ballino.
Not suitable for beginners or children (even experienced climbers must exercise caution because in some sections the safety cable is a bit too far for smaller children).
Best period April-November (avoid if there is snow on the slopes above or ice that can fall from the waterfall)
This via ferrata is a wonderful opportunity to refresh yourself on a hot summer afternoon.
Safety advice
Choose the route based on your real physical preparation, technical skills, and experience. Always assess crowding conditions, weather, state of fixed equipment and the route. The final decision and responsibility on the route's feasibility rests entirely on the person who decides to undertake it. In case of doubts, seek information or rely on qualified professionals.
Emergency phone number 112.
The information in this sheet is subject to inevitable changes, so no indication is absolute. It is not entirely possible to avoid inaccurate or imprecise information, given the fast-changing environmental and weather conditions. For this reason, we disclaim any responsibility for changes that the user may encounter. In any case, hikers are advised to verify the conditions of places, environment, and weather before setting out.
Access:
From the center of Ballino, follow the signs to Cascata Sajant and in 20 minutes you will reach the base of the waterfall and the start of the via ferrata (put on your helmet before approaching the wall – risk of falling rocks).
Description:
A short but challenging and difficult via ferrata, set in a beautiful context next to the Rio Ruzza waterfall. After passing the first vertical section to the right of the waterfall (1), a series of rungs and a suspended Tibetan bridge (2) lead to a Tibetan bridge (3) that allows crossing the suspended pool (4) at the base of the main waterfall. This first section is not particularly difficult. The second section (5) starts before the Tibetan bridge and is definitely more demanding and spectacular. The via ferrata climbs a long vertical rock face with a slight overhang on the right side of the waterfall. The vertical climb is interrupted by short traverses on cable bridges (6) and in some places the metal rungs give way to holds carved into the rock (7). This leads to a suspended vertical ladder (8) which brings you to the beginning of a classic Tibetan bridge crossing the waterfall more than 100 m above the ground. After another short rock section, a second Tibetan bridge (10) leads to the final rock face that ends on the forest road returning to Ballino.
Return:
Follow the forest road to go back.
Ballino is connected by the interurban bus line 211 (Riva del Garda - Tenno - Fiavè - Ponte Arche).
Attention! The buses are not very frequent!
Ballino is about 15 km from Riva del Garda. It can be reached by taking state road 421 towards Tenno / Terme di Comano.
Parking area reserved for the Via Ferrata with entrance along the SS421 (main road).
You must wear the right clothing and bring the appropriate equipment when hiking in the mountains. Even on relatively short and easy outings, make sure to bring everything necessary to avoid problems if things take an unexpected turn, for example if a thunderstorm breaks out or you have a sudden drop in energy.
What must you absolutely have with you on a via ferrata hike?