Of course, the journey is the Finishing Point. But when the summit is the Finishing Point, the journey becomes all the more beautiful. Especially when you reach it via a Via Ferrata/Iron Way: you simply can’t get any closer to the mountain than that!
We’d therefore like to introduce you to five fantastic iron trail routes, all of which end at a summit cross, so that that ‘sense of achievement’ really comes into its own. And with a 360-degree view, that well-deserved snack always tastes even better.
We’re off to a flying start: not just one, but no fewer than five summits are crossed on this via ferrata adventure high above Lake Achensee. Okay, actually there are five Via Ferratas/Iron Ways, linked by walking sections. So you don’t have to do all five straight away – if you prefer a more leisurely pace, you can choose a few fewer. But they all lead over a summit:
To the summits, ready, go!
Topography & Access:5-Peak Via Ferrata/Iron Way, Rofan
This unspoilt nature is fantastic: few mountain regions are as undeveloped as the Lechtal Alps. The Steinsee Via Ferrata/Iron Way is a welcome exception here – with moderate difficulty, it climbs up towards the Steinkarspitze (2,650 m). Anyone tackling the Via Ferrata/Iron Way from the valley has a long and action-packed day ahead of them. An Overnight Stay at a Mountain Lodge at the rustic Steinseehütte is highly recommended, as it makes the access considerably more pleasant. And after the Via Ferrata/Iron Way: take a dip in the idyllic Steinsee – at least with your toes!
Topography & Access:Steinsee Via Ferrata/Iron Way (B/C), Lechtal Alps
A classic among the old-timers, with some wonderful sections along the ridge. Add to that superb views and dramatic vistas – on one side towards Lake Reschen, on the other towards the Goldseen, and of course towards the King, Ortler!
However, the north-facing exposure, the sometimes faint markings, the descents that demand concentration and the tight timetable of the Uphill Facilities (first ascent at 9.00 am, last descent at 16.00 pm) make this classic Via Ferrata/Iron Way a serious undertaking. Alpine experience, sure-footedness and a good level of fitness are essential!
Topography & Access:Tirolerweg Via Ferrata/Iron Way (D), Nauders
A climb with a spectacular finale: the Kaiserschützensteig leads up to the Ellmauer Halt (2,344 m), the highest peak in the Wilden Kaiser range, which is certainly no stranger to high peaks. The panoramic view of the jagged ridges and peaks of the ‘Koasa’ is brilliant. It’s no coincidence that the trail is also known as the ‘3-Peak Crossing’ – along the way, you’ll tackle the Kleine Halt and the Gamshalt as well. Even though the climbing difficulty is moderate, the distance of the route makes for a challenging undertaking. Sure-footedness and alpine experience are essential here!
Topography & Access:Kaiserschützensteig (B/C), Wilder Kaiser
You don’t actually have to tackle it naked: the “Nackter Hund” Via Ferrata/Iron Way leads to one of the highest peaks in the Loferer Steinberge, the Mitterhorn (2,506 m). However, it’s been given a catchy name after a peak that isn’t actually climbed, but merely skirted – the neighbouring “Nackter Hund” (2,373 m). The via ferrata runs exactly along the Tirol/Salzburg border. And for those who don’t want to tackle 1,500 metres of altitude gain in a single day – including Access – an overnight stay at the charming Schmidt-Zabierow Mountain Lodge/Hut is highly recommended.
Topography & Access:Nackter Hund Via Ferrata/Iron Way (C/D), Loferer Steinberge
Tips & Safety
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