Two groups, two Mountain Guides, one goal: to learn multi-pitch climbing from scratch – whilst developing an appreciation for the natural beauty of the Kaiser Mountains.
The meeting point was just below the Wegscheid-Hochalm in Scheffau, from where we were split into two groups of eight people each. The aim of the day was not only to showcase the diversity of climbing throughout Tyrol, but also to encourage a more mindful approach to the environment – both during the journey there and whilst on the rock. After all, if everyone makes a small contribution, we’ll be able to continue enjoying beautiful and clean climbing areas in the future.
To start with, part of the group headed straight for the crag with the Mountain Guides Stefan and Herbert. There, the basics of multi-pitch climbing were explained and put into practice: everyone had the chance to practise setting up belay stations with their Partner, climb and then abseil down. The slightly more experienced climbers benefited from the Mountain Guides’ insider tips on how to handle the rope and belay stations more quickly and efficiently. They refreshed their knowledge of knots, received advice on specialist equipment – and the two Mountain Guides answered every question in detail.
At lunchtime, we ate, laughed and chatted together: we enjoyed cheese, yoghurt and apple juice provided by our sponsor ‘Bio am Berg’ whilst basking in the sunshine. Afterwards, Sigi took over and gave us an insight into the geological history and the flora and fauna of the Kaiser Mountains. As mountaineers in particular, it’s well worth knowing about the different types of rock: Sigi illustrated the ice sheets that covered the entire Kaiser range during the Ice Age, leaving the limestone as it is today. Using a magnifying glass and a salt solution, we determined the limestone content of individual boulders. The Kaiser Mountains have been a nature reserve since 1963 and are consequently rich in flora and fauna – Sigi showed us numerous flowers and explained what they are used for and whether or not they are poisonous.
The event was a resounding success for everyone involved: it not only helped participants to experience nature more fully, but also to navigate the Tirolean mountains more safely. Everyone gained new insights to take away for future climbing trips – and had a great deal of fun in the process.
More about the spot: Multerkarwand
Text & photos: Jana Scheiring
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