“That sounds like a terrible idea!” The eyes of an acquaintance bulge in horror. My plan to take my afraid-of-heights friend mountain climbing on the Norquay Via Ferrata is met with shocked disbelief. In defense, I argue the assisted climbing experience, in the stunning Alberta Rockies, will empower my pal Cherie in overcoming the fear of heights.
“Either a fear of heights cure or the end of your friendship!” sneers the naysayer.
Well, that seems rather pessimistic.
“Or it will be an incredibly exhilarating experience!” I flash a confident smile.
Overcoming fear of heights on Mt Norquay’s Via Ferrata suspension bridge
Before you hand me the nasty friend of the year award, imagining poor Cherie clinging to the side of a cliff by her fingernails, for those who aren’t familiar, let me tell you about a Via Ferrata.
What is a Via Ferrata?
Italian for iron road, Via Ferratas are protected mountain routes equipped with fixed cables, rungs or ladders and bridges. Today more than one thousand exist worldwide, with the majority being in Europe. Just outside of Banff, Alberta, Mt. Norquay provides four breathtaking Via Ferrata routes to choose from.
Leashes attached from the climber to the Via Ferrata cable.
The origin of the Via Ferrata rests in finding ways for inexperienced climbers to safely navigate a mountain and are most commonly associated with the First World War. Several Via Ferratas were built in the Italian Dolomites to aid in the safe movement of troops across mountain passes.
By placing steel steps, long handles referred to as towel racks, ladder rungs and the cable in the rock, climbers can securely traverse a mountain route. No previous climbing experience is required.
Guide Sara keeping a close watch on Cherie, as she moves along the Via Ferrata
Wearing harnesses and helmets, those on the Norquay Via Ferrata, are secured to the cable via safety leashes. A mountain guide is always present. Sara, our lead guide, after being made aware of Cherie’s acrophobia, or fear of heights, kept our friend near to provide extra support and encouragement throughout the adventure.
Fear of Heights and Norquay’s Via Ferrata
Want to see Cherie in action? Click on the video below to see how she manages to be afraid of heights on the Ridgewalker Via Ferrata route at Mt Norquay.
Now you may be thinking, Cherie looks like she is smiling. Or is that a grimace? One step ahead of you friends. Below you will find our interview with Cherie.
Of the four Via Ferrata routes, you chose the 4 hour Ridgewalker route. What made you choose that rather than the shorter Explorer route?
Cherie – I never like to do the beginner of anything. I always like to challenge myself and 4 hours seemed like a distance I could do. While I have never climbed before, I felt 2.5 hours would not be long enough.
Cherie climbing the Ridgewalker route Mt Norquay Via Ferrata
Sue – Having climbed all four Via Ferrata routes ourselves, for anyone who is frightened of heights, we suggest starting with the Explorer or Ridgewalker routes. In our opinion, the 5 hour Skyline route, with its airy 55 m suspension bridge, and the 6 hour Summiteer with an additional 3 wire bridge, are better for those with little height anxiety or who have already done one of the shorter climbs.
Was there ever a point on the route where you thought, ‘ I am afraid of heights! I just can’t do this!’ If so how did you get through it?
Overcoming a fear of high places on the first plank of the Via Ferrata
Cherie – When I saw the first plank, even though it was short, it made me a little anxious. Then I saw the suspension bridge……..I thought of my 6 year old granddaughter and how I put aside my fear of roller coasters, went on one many times because she could not go on it by herself. It makes her smile and laugh, especially when her grandmother screams. I love to see her having fun. When we were climbing straight up the sheer rock face, I kept saying “I can’t believe I’m doing this!” My heart was in my throat, but with the encouragement and guidance I knew I could do it.
Having now done the Via Ferrata at Norquay, what tips do you have for others who want to try it but are scared of heights?
Guide assisting with fear of heights from above
Cherie – Listen to the guide, remain calm, pay attention to the instructions and practice wall. The guides are excellent. She knew I was nervous so she advised me in some spots, watched over me and gave me encouragement. It was also comforting having friends behind me also watching out for me. When you look at the gorgeous views, you forget the nervousness. Just like climbing hills on your bike, look at the beautiful scenery and it helps to trick the mind.
Would you do the Via Ferrata again?
Cherie – Definitely! I would love to do it again. Probably I would stick to the Ridgewalker route as I’m not sure I have the strength for a longer climb at this point. I’d love to challenge my sons to do it with me.
Conquering fear on Mt Norquay Via Ferrata
Did climbing the Via Ferrata help you overcome the fear of heights?
Yes, it helped ease my fears for sure and did give me more confidence going forward.
What if I am truly unable to do the Via Ferrata?
Even the wildlife love the view from the Cliffhouse Bistro at Mt Norquay
For those who choose not to do the Via Ferrata or have physical limitations, the best kept secret view of Banff is still available. A ride up the North American chairlift to the Cliffhouse Bistro, provides one of the best restaurant views in the world. You can meet your friends who did the Via Ferrata and toast their accomplishment and adventure of a lifetime.
Cheers to you Cherie!
Would you try a Via Ferrata?
Considering overcoming your own fear of heights? Pin these to your Pinterest board for future reference.
Thank you to Mt Norquay for making this adventure possible for Cherie and her not so nasty friends. All opinions are our own.
Wow Cherie! Good for you. Way to set an example for you granddaughter and before you know it she’ll be right out there with you. Sue and Dave always have these adventure ideas so I wonder what’s next?
Ginger we agree that Cherie is modelling the way for her granddaughter and people she doesn’t even know. We are always looking to explore and appreciate you following along!
Kudos to Cherie. I’m not afraid of heights and yet I know I’d be shaking like a leaf! I so want to do this!!
Joanne this is number one on the list for your visit! Really hoping we can get you out to the Via Ferrata one day soon. You are going to love it!
Congratulations Cherie! You know this is on my list Sue! Some day my friend 💕
Lynn you bet! It would be awesome to have you and Joanne come and we could all do it together!
Well that sounds like a barrel of fun!
Definitely! Let’s try to make that happen. 🙂
There is no way I could ever get David to do this. He wouldn’t even go on the London Eye.
Well it’s the Cliffhouse Bistro for David then. How about you Lyn. Would you give the Via Ferrata a try?
Well done, Cherie. Wearing a harness would make this adventure something I would have a go at. It looks amazing.
Glad to hear that! Cherie did very well and I love that people
Being able to see her do the Via Ferrata gives them confidence to try.
Wonderful 🙂
Thanks Joshi. Cherie did so well on the Via Ferrata.
Fantastic Accomplishment Cherie! A fear of heights can be paralysing and so frustrating, to choose this via Ferrata to get over your fear is amazing. I think this climb will have to go on my list, it is simply stunning and it does look very high…gulp😳
Gilda this would be one of our first recommendations for a trip here. The stunning views, the sense of adventure and accomplishment and knowing it is all done safely makes it a fabulous Rocky Mountain experience. I agree Cherie did a fantastic job overcoming her fear and inspiring others.
Wowza! How awesome! I just climbed up a very tall lighthouse and showed my friends and little ones how to try it and your fears will be overcome!
Great interview! And congratulations to Cherie!
Nancy that is great! Good for you to inspire others just as Cherie has done. Climb on!
I have never really seen this style of climbing. I have a fear of heights, but I would give this a try anyway, the views look amazing.
Amy we used to do a lot of rock climbing but now doing the Via Ferrata where I don’t have to worry about all the safety aspects is a wonderful thing. I think you would enjoy it very much. Thanks for sharing the article on Twitter. Much appreciated!
Wow… can’t imagine climbing up there. How exciting! We visited Dolomites some years ago, did some hiking. I still remember the spectacular views. 🙂
Amy I can imagine the Dolomites would provide spectacular views. The Via Ferrata has its origins there too.
I applaud anyone who is willing to work through their fear of heights which I share. I get nauseous hiking close to the edge of a ledge on a mountain, but love the view. I’ve also noticed that I can zip line from great heights without a qualm…go figure. Walking across a long wooden bridge at great heights…ugh, but put a zip line across that same thing, no problem. Great post!
Kirt I agree that perspective of the height can make a great difference. when we have gone paragliding , the ground is so far away it doesn’t even seem real and I think one’s brain can not process the ‘danger’ of the scene.Do you think you would try a Via Ferrata?
I’m PETRIFIED of heights… actually, it’s not the height so much as the sudden stop at the bottom of said height.
That made me smile Jim. maybe we could start with a bit to eat at the Cliffhouse Bistro.
Yeah… Ummm… No.
All right Jim. We will get on our bikes and cycle up to Mt Norquay instead. Great views even from the road. 🙂
That’s more like it!
Thought that might be more your style.
I would so love to do this!
Alison I think you would love it! Do let me know if you plan to visit.
Lol. I’m glad to see your friendship endures Sue. 😂👍🏻well done.
Me too Shannyn. I knew Cherie would do so well. Would you be up for trying the Via Ferrata?
wow! well done, Cherie! i don’t think this is for me Sue but i enjoyed watching the video and the incredible view. thanks for sharing! 🙂
Lola perhaps it will be lunch at the Cliffhouse Bistro then. The views are incredible. I agree that Cherie did so well.
Hooray for Cherie! Conquering that fear took a lot of courage. I’d love to do the Via Ferrata. Maybe someday… 🙂
Diane I think one of the things you would love about it is being away from the rush of the crowds of Banff. One would never know that one of the world’s prime tourist destinations is humming away at the base of the view.
We were so thrilled for Cherie and her accomplishment.
I remember your other post about the Via Ferrata, Sue. So awesome that Cherie managed to do it with her fear of heights. I don’t think Mark would be up for it!
And, yes, seeing these beautiful views and fun course again, certainly still makes me want to do this adventure one day. So many amazing things to do and see in your area; you can show visitors something new every time they come. Have a great week!
Liesbet it sounds like we shall leave Mark at the Cliffhouse Bistro to cavort with the mountain sheep and have refreshments with one of the best views in the world while we tackle the Via Ferrata. Yes definitely a lot of amazing adventures to be had here. Hoping to entice you our way!
Well done Cherie! This definitely takes courage and just seeing the photos made scared of heights me, rather uncomfortable. When I got to the part about the viewing terrace I thought, ok, I could do THAT! Until I read that the way to get there was by cable car. Even that makes me nervous….
Beautiful vistas, but not for me….. Ha!
Peta
Peta yes the ride up is on a ski lift chair so if that is an issue then perhaps its not an ideal outing. Dave and I have talked quite a few people through assorted adventures who have a fear of heights from chair lifts to hikes with steep drop offs. Each person has to know what they are willing to try and I appreciate you taking the time to read and give it some thought.
Wow.
I am not so brave to do this. I can drive fast and have done it on German “Autobahnen”, but this – no way! 🙂
Have good day!
That made me smile. I think I will stick to mountain climbing. 🙂
Three cheers for Cherie, and for all three of you! Loved the views from way up there, and fantastic to see the mountain sheep too. Excellent video clip, Dave; and wonderful photos, Sue. Interesting to know what Via Ferratas are, and how they originated, too. Mt. Norquay continues to amaze….
Jet thank you for your visit and exploring Mt Norquay with us again. We have never seen so many sheep up there! When we were at the base of the mountain earlier in the day we saw a while heard run down the mountain as if they were in the 1000m dash. No idea what it was about but so fun to see.
Thank you for the kind words about the photos and video. With this kind of scenery it’s hard to go wrong.
Sue and Cherie, wow. Seeing the swing bridge made me nervous LOL! I had an….interesting….experience with swing bridges in New Zealand. The height scared me but I could pull it off IF the thing was stable. The bouncing nature made me nauseous. Well done!
Ryan
Ryan even though I have little fear of heights from our years of rock climbing, the unstable aspect of such bridges is unnerving. When I’m on solid rock I feel much more secure. We would love to go to New Zealand one day. When that happens I’ll be sure to ask where we can find the bridge!
Congratulations Cherie! This looks like so much fun. I have only done one Via Ferrata at the Squamish Sea to Sky Gondola—and loved it. It appears that the one on Norquay is much more expansive. Great video of the experience!
Thank you Caroline for the lovely feedback. My Norquay has four routes and although I have not done other Via Ferratas my understanding is these are quite expansive.
I give Cherie a huge shout out and CONGRATS. To you, as a friend? Well, it turned out okay, so you get a pat on the back. However, I’m not afraid of heights, and I would love to do this. On the other hand, I’m claustrophobic, and if a friend suggested that I crawl into a small, tunnel-like cave for a mile and that I’d be cured of claustrophobia at the end? Honestly, after I was pulled out of there with a huge anxiety/panic attack, I’d probably never talk to that friend again. ;-0 Hmmm, interesting comparisons. But this post is GORGEOUS ! 🙂
Pam I’m smiling as we also have that kind of cave experience near us too. I’m almost thinking it might be harder as for someone who is claustrophobic as there is no view to distract. I know I wouldn’t know how to as easily be helpful as I have little caving experience but decades of climbing to fall back on. An interesting comparison to be sure.
This was amazing to read and I congratulate Cherie on her spirit. Given my fear of heights I’m not sure I could have done this climb, maybe I’d start on one of the smaller shorter climbs first. But I do trust equipment and being attached with a harness would help me feel a bit better about it. Sue, I think you’re a wonderful friend to suggest doing this with Cherie and agree the views would help take your mind off the height!
Debbie I know with your positive attitude and adventurous spirit you could do this. I’d certainly support starting on a shorter route to get your confidence. Thanks for the kind words about friendship. Sometimes pushing each other out of comfort zones is the definition of good friend.