What’s New at Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata? A Guide to the New Phase 2 Routes
The Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata has reached an exciting milestone: Phase 2 routes are now open! Visiting climbers now have more terrain, more variety, and more reasons to return to one of the most unique outdoor adventure destinations in Utah. If you have been to Ashley Gorge before, look forward to new sections and feature variations. If this will be your first time, there is now more to explore than ever before.
That said, it’s important to note the full Phase 2 project is not entirely finished. New routes, trails, and variations are complete, but updated signage, additional infrastructure, access improvements, and visitor amenities are still underway.
This guide breaks down what is new, what is still coming, and what visitors should know before heading to the Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata in Vernal, Utah.
The Old Map
The New Map!
The Big Update: New Phase 2 Routes Are Now Open
The biggest news is the route expansion itself. Climbers now have access to a larger and more connected system, with new via ferrata walls, new approach and connector trails, and new variations that add both easier alternatives and harder challenges.
Here are all the details.
New routes and features:
Thagomizer (5): Travels in one direction. Connects the Pump (4) and Soup (6) sectors. Challenging aretes with two cable bridges and a chimney finish. Can be skipped using the T7 Trail.
Toothy Grin Topout (8): Travels in both directions. Offers an exit option up and out of the canyon directly from T-Rex Terrace (7). Good option if part of your group wants to get Jur-Ass-Kicked, and others aren’t feeling it, but you want to rejoin at the top and hike out together.
Jur-Ass-is-Cutoff (9): Travels in both directions, offering a bail point for Jur-Ass-Kicked, or an entrance onto Jur-Ass-Kicked from T-Rex Terrace (7).
Jur-Ass-Kicked (11): Travels in one direction. Think big-wall via ferrata climbing. 700 feet of straight vertical with a hard or harder ladder finish (12).
Jur-Ass-Kicked Summit (13): Travels in both directions, making it possible for you to make a loop of the new routes at the back of the canyon without doing any of the original via ferrata.
New trails:
Canyon Rim Trail (T2): Gives climbers a trail back to the car after getting Jur-Ass-Kicked(11). Can also be used to access the Toothy Grin Topout entrance (8) and make a loop of the new routes at the back of the canyon without doing any of the original via ferrata.
Shally’s Ladder Shortcut (T5): Crossed the Land Before Climb (3), getting you from Outlaw (1, 2) over to the Pump (4) without having to go down to the bottom of the canyon and back up.
Abduction Cutoff (T8): Great for first-timers or those who want to make a quick trip! Gets you from upper Outlaw (1) over to the top of the first pitch of Abduction (10).
Above the Pump (T4): Gives climbers a way to bypass the crowded beginning of the Pump (4) and get farther into the canyon, faster. Drops you onto the course just after the Bridgette, a little before the start of Thagomizer (5)
Little Foot Ladder Trail (T10): For those not wanting to try Shally’s Ladder or any of the challenging Bad Grammar (4.5) variations (or for those wanting to bypass the crowd), you can walk below the Pump (4) and enter via the Little Foot Ladder (4.8A).
Bridge Gully Primitive Trail (T9): Not as well-marked as the other trails in the canyon. Look for cairns on your way down. This trail offers an exit immediately following the Dynomite Sky Bridge, down to the Cease & Desist Trail (T3) at the bottom of the Gorge.
Toothy Grin Topout Trail (T11): Connects the Toothy Grin Topout (8) to the Jur-Ass-Kicked Summit (13).
New variations:
Bad Grammar variations:
Proper English (4.5A): A slightly easier vertical climb up the corner before Bad Grammar. Note: “easier” does not mean “easy.” If you question whether you’ll be able to do any of these variations safely, please use the Little Foot Ladder Trail (T10) and access the Pump (4) after the Bad Grammar feature.
Syntax Error (4.5C): A hard, exposed roof. Consider packing an additional lanyard with you in case of deployment. If your lanyard deploys here, exit the course using the Little Foot Ladder (4.8A).
Abduction variation:
Roswell Lite (10.15A): An easier fun chimney climb up and out of the Gorge, to the right of the original Abduction (10) exit. Good for those who don’t love the exposure of the final moves of the original Triceratop-out.
Jur-Ass-Kicked Variations (11)
Tiny Arm Turnoff (11.16): A great option if you start up Jur-Ass-Kicked and quickly change your mind.
Launch Sequence (11.8A): Your first roof option on this via ferrata big wall. (Don’t burn yourself out too fast!)
Exposure Therapy (12): The crux of Jur-Ass-Kicked: a 75-foot overhanging double-helix ladder with an optional roof finish called Space Man (12.2A). Those who do not want to do Exposure Therapy can stick to the main route, or switch over to a chimney climb—Womb Fight (12.3).
Space Man (12.2A): The optional roof finish at the end of Exposure Therapy (12).
Womb Fight (12.3): A squeeze chimney above some nice benches. Challenging but not exposed.
These additions are a major step forward because they do more than just tack on a few extra lines. They expand how the entire route system flows. Some additions make it easier to move through the canyon and access different sections, while others create new route options for climbers looking for more technical or more committing experiences. (We do suggest that anyone seeking to try the harder variations have a rest carabiner attached to your lanyard; you’re gonna want it!)
What the New Routes Add to the Experience
One of the best things about this expansion is that it increases the range of experiences available at Ashley Gorge. The via ferrata was already a standout destination, but these additions make it more dynamic for repeat visitors, stronger climbers, and groups with different comfort levels.
Some of the new variations were designed to offer an easier alternative route, which is useful for climbers who want a more approachable way through a section. Others were added specifically to create a more challenging option, which is great for returning climbers or people who want a bigger test.
That matters because not every climber shows up looking for the exact same day. Some want a scenic adventure with a manageable challenge. Others want exposure, movement, and a route that feels more athletic and memorable. The new layout gives Ashley Gorge more ability to serve both.
It also gives guides more flexibility. For guided trips, this broader route network makes it easier to tailor the day to the group. Families, first-timers, and cautious climbers can often be directed toward terrain that better suits them, while more experienced and confident climbers can pursue the sections that raise the difficulty and excitement.
Key New Areas and Route Groupings
From the new maps and route graphics, several major route clusters stand out.
Abduction, Outlaw, and The Pump
This zone continues to be one of the core areas of the system, and it now benefits from new trail work and added route complexity. The extended and newly connected trail network helps climbers move more efficiently through this part of the canyon. With the Above the Pump Trail (T4) and new trails like the Shally’s Ladder Cutoff (T5) and Little Foot Ladder Trail (T8) helping to disperse the crowds coming off of Outlaw (1, 2), as well as the new variations on Bad Grammer (4.5, the former crux of the entire via ferrata), this section of map is an important one to study as you plan your day. Because these sectors are near the main canyon entrance, expect to continue to see some crowding on Outlaw (1,2), as well as the first half of the Pump (4).
For those wanting a shorter, easier day, this section also now includes the Abduction Cutoff (T8) and the Roswell Lite topout (10.15) on Abduction (10).
Soup, Thagomizer, and Toothy Grin Topout
In these sections, look for two main changes:
First, the addition of Thagomizer (5), which gives you a challenging connecting route between the Pump (4) and the Soup (6). Of course, those who want a break from climbing can use the original hiking trail between the two sections.
And second, the Toothy Grin Topout (8), which offers a more direct exit (or entrance) to or from T-Rex Terrace (7). For those wanting a calf-burner hike and a really epic loop that skips the crowds on Outlaw, take the Canyon Rim Trail up to the Jur-Ass-Kicked Summit (13), the Toothy Grin Topout Trail (T11), then drop down the Toothy Grin Topout (8) and head directly over to get Jur-Ass-Kicked (11).
You’ll also notice T9, the Bridge Gully Primitive Trail. It’s exactly that— a primitive trail— but it does offer a way down to the bottom of the canyon immediately after the Dynomite Sky Bridge.
Jur-Ass-Kicked, Exposure Therapy, and Jur-Ass-Kicked Summit
The star of the show and not for the faint of heart: this portion of the expanded route network adds some of the most intriguing new terrain. For climbers who want a larger objective, bigger challenge, and a stronger sense of progression through the route, this big wall via ferrata is for you.
Check the energy and stamina of your group before attempting, and do not take large groups or youth groups up Jur-Ass-Kicked at all. This wall is the deepest in the canyon and weather can change rapidly; large groups of inexperienced climbers can drastically slow down everyone on the wall, exposing all climbers to unsafe conditions. Be prepared for high winds and fast-moving storms, and if you see lightning or hear thunder, exit the course as quickly as possible.
At 1000ft of elevation gain (with the first 700ft of the climb straight vertical and very exposed), this wall is no joke. Unless you are an experienced climber, we highly recommend hiring a guide if you wish to attempt this portion of the via ferrata.
What Is Still Unfinished in Phase 2
Again, Phase 2 routes are open, but the broader Phase 2 project is still unfinished.
At the time of writing, here’s what Uintah County is still working on:
An expanded and refinished parking lot
Vault toilets at the trailhead/parking area
Vault toilets inside the canyon, across the river
A foot bridge, providing access to the in-canyon bathrooms
Uintah County states that Phase 2 infrastructure work will be complete this fall. That timeline is subject to change and adjustment, but when complete, these additions will improve the visitor experience, especially with increased visitation.
There is also an important practical note here: while there is a port-a-john at the parking lot, there are currently no bathrooms in the canyon. Whether you think you’ll need one on route or not, come prepared with a wag bag, since all solid waste must be packed out of the canyon.
It should also be made very clear that the mouth of the canyon is still private property, and both the cable running across the river as well as the existing foot bridge near the white spring house is off limits. Visitors should not use a river crossing and road access in or out of the canyon unless being escorted out by Search & Rescue. That remains an important boundary for everyone using the via ferrata.
Why This Matters for Visitors
For visitors, the current reality is actually pretty straightforward.
If your main goal is to climb, explore the route, and experience the new terrain, this is a very exciting time to visit. The route network has grown, and there is a lot more to see and do than before.
If your expectation is that all the final infrastructure is already complete, you may be disappointed (particularly by the bathroom situation); The climbing itself has expanded, but the parking, roadwork, bathroom access, and other supporting amenities are still catching up.
That does not make this a bad time to visit, it simply means visitors should arrive with accurate expectations.
What Climbers Should Know Before Going
Ashley Gorge is a public via ferrata, but public does not mean casual or consequence-free. It still requires planning, proper equipment, physical ability, and good decision-making.
A few reminders matter even more now as traffic and route options continue to grow.
You need the proper equipment, including a climbing helmet, harness, gloves, sturdy footwear, and a certified via ferrata lanyard system. Improvised setups are not an acceptable substitute. This is not the place to show up with random climbing gear and assume it will work.
Route Grading - The Fletcher Smith Scale
You should also understand the route grading system. The Ashley Gorge signage uses the Fletcher Smith Scale, which evaluates both technical difficulty and alpine commitment. That means a route is not just judged by how physically hard the climbing is, it is also judged by factors like exposure, length, seriousness, and how easy it is to retreat if needed.
If you are new, uncertain, climbing with kids, or simply want a smoother experience, hiring a guide is a smart option. Dyno Outfitters can help visitors understand the route, use the correct equipment, and choose an outing that fits their group. While this is a public via ferrata and most skill groups can enjoy this, this is not an activity to underestimate.
Why the New Phase 2 Routes Are Such a Big Deal
The Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata was already a destination worth talking about. What these new routes do is disperse the crowd and create a more complete (potentially multi-day) experience for all users.
The new walls add more climbing. The new trails improve movement and access. The new variations make the route more flexible. Together, they create a better experience for first-timers, returning climbers, strong climbers, guided guests, and independent users alike.
That is what makes this expansion so meaningful. It is not just more route. It is more choice, more progression, and more reasons to come back.
For Dyno Outfitters, it also creates an opportunity to help more people enjoy the route in a way that matches their ability, goals, and comfort level. Whether someone wants a guided first experience, needs certified gear rentals, or is returning to take on the newest sections, the expanded route network makes Ashley Gorge more compelling than ever.
Final Thoughts
The simplest way to sum it up is this: the new Phase 2 routes at Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata are open now, but the full Phase 2 project is still in progress.
That is excellent news for climbers who have been waiting for the route expansion. It also means visitors should come informed. Expect more climbing and more options. Still pack a wag bag, and plenty of snacks and water. Do not expect all of the final infrastructure to be finished just yet.
If you want to be among the people experiencing the newly expanded route system now, this is a great time to go, especially if you plan ahead, understand the current setup, and come equipped for the route. Many people visit on Saturdays and during the Fall so plan accordingly.
Ready to do the new routes? Rent your gear or get a guide with the buttons below!
Interested to learn more about the Ashley Gorge Via Ferrata? Visit our blog to learn more!
