Gipfelstürmernadel in the Karwendel: 40 metres up a limestone spire steeped in history

A freestanding limestone pinnacle beneath the Erlspitze, a flag at the highest point and a summit book that reads like a history book: the Gipfelstürmernadel in the Karwendel Mountains.

Climber on an alpine rock face with a view of the mountains

The long approach puts most people off

You often see photos of this unique rock spire in the Karwendel Mountains – but it is rarely climbed. The long approach is the reason why the Gipfelstürmernadel has remained a little-visited destination.

Lukas Wimmer and Niklas had set themselves this challenge: to take the train to Hochzirl, head up via the Solsteinhaus towards the Erlspitze, and then make the ascent to the spire. They were rewarded with a misty atmosphere, views of countless isolated Karwendel peaks and a summit book containing entries dating back to the mid-20th century. The spire is situated in the area around Innsbruck.

Text: Lukas Wimmer

Getting there by train

The approach begins at Hochzirl railway station: walk up to the Solsteinhaus and continue towards the Erlspitze. The spire is situated just before the summit and is only visible once you reach it – when Lukas and Niklas were there, it was shrouded in mist, creating an almost mystical atmosphere.

Please note: The short descent from the top to the spire requires alpine experience. It isn’t difficult, but the rock is typical of the Karwendel Mountains: loose. Wear a helmet, and if the conditions are wet or there’s lingering snow, it’s best to postpone the climb. Allow plenty of time – the approach is the most demanding part of this tour.

The freestanding limestone spire of the Gipfelstürmernadel in the Karwendel at dawn

The climb: 40 metres up the spire

There are several options for the ascent; Lukas and Niklas took the easiest route: a 40-metre climb to the highest point. For the stated grade, it’s a steep climb – and the old pegs probably date back to the first ascenders.

This means: don’t rely on the fixed gear. Portable protection, slings for threads and spikes, as well as equipment for setting up your own belay station, should be packed in your rucksack, along with an abseil kit for the return journey. If you don’t trust the old pegs, you’re better off with your own gear.

The summit book: entries since the mid-20th century

At the highest point there is a flag, and there’s also a summit book. Ascents are rare, but the logbook reads like a story: the entries date back to the mid-20th century, and you could spend hours leafing through it.

Please note: The summit book urgently needs a new plastic bag – hopefully the next person to climb up will have one in their rucksack. The best way to round off the day is with a stop at the Solsteinhaus.