Ragnarok
Norway's toughest via ferrata
In spring 2019, Norway's toughest via ferrata route opened - in Loen. It has a difficulty level of F, making Loen one of the most complete via ferrata facilities in Europe. The new route runs to the west of the classic one, and remains steep all the way. Climbing this route requires great strength and stamina, and climbers should have climbed grade E before. Those who are unsure whether they can master this route can go the classic route and test themselves on route 3 "Tors hammar" - a short loop in category D/E.
The trip starts on a dirt road and path to 435 m above sea level where you get attached to the wire in the box. After a short time, the climbing goes into overhangs where very good climbing skills are needed. The trip is extremely steep all the way. Ragnarok is only for experienced via ferrata climbers with very good strength. Talk to Loen Active about Ragnarok - we don't want anyone to get stuck. Remember that you must be able to get back down the whole way if you get stuck. To climb the tour, you need a helmet, climbing harness with via ferrata sling (and rest sling). This can be hired at the Loen Active shop.
Loen Active does not offer instructors in Ragnarok.
Important for peace of mind
Loen Active recommends that you complete Tors Hammar (route 3, short category E loop) at the top of Via Ferrata Loen two times in succession before you consider doing Ragnarok. Climbing Ragnarok can be compared to a long climbing route on a grade 6+ cliff (perhaps barely 1% of our via ferrata guests manage to complete Ragnarok).
You must have a third via ferrata sling (bridle sling) to complete the route. Avoid using a screw carabiner on the sling.
Good via ferrata shoes are essential to complete Ragnarok. These can be purchased or rented from Loen Active.
Use rubberized gloves. Can be purchased from Loen Active.
Remember to bring enough drinks and food. Water is not available in the climbing route.
There are two retreat opportunities to Via Ferrata route 1 during the tour.
Description of the difficulty levels
E = EXTREMELY DIFFICULT
Vertical and often overhanging terrain. A constant mental, technical and physical challenge. Small and few natural footholds and handholds. Iron shackles are only installed where absolutely necessary. On sections where maximum physical strength is required, only one or two attempts may be possible. Requires top physical fitness and experience. For specialists only! Use of safety equipment is standard. Recommended additional equipment: Via Ferrata sling with one and two extendable arms, and a third arm handy for traversing or pausing.
F = EXTREMELY DIFFICULT +
Overhanging mountain section, without steel steps or good natural steps to stand on. Requires extremely good physical strength and stamina. This route requires experience from grade E. Recommended additional equipment: Via Ferrata sling with one and two extendable arms, and a third arm that comes in handy when traversing or taking a break.
An extra + / - on the grading increases or decreases the level of difficulty.
VIA FERRATA LOEN - ALL ROUTES
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