Waidringer Steinplatte: Classics and the sheer joy of Multi-Pitch Climbing

A seven-kilometre-long rock ledge, up to 250 metres high – and rock of such quality that you can already sense it from the valley below.
The rock ledge of the Waidringer Steinplatte
The rock ledge of the Waidringer Steinplatte

Seven kilometres of sheer rock

Between Waidring and Lofer stretches a rocky ridge, visible from afar, with a distance of some seven kilometres and a height of up to 250 metres: the Steinplatte.

Whether you’re a sport climber or a mountaineer, a keen Beginner or an experienced climber – there’s something for everyone here. With this crag, the Steinberge region boasts one of Tyrol’s most varied Multi-Pitch Climbing areas.

Text: Susa Schreiner

The rock ledge of the Waidringer Steinplatte

Flat at the bottom, grippy at the top

Here’s a brief summary of the climb on the central pillar: it starts off fairly flat at the base of the wall, but as you climb higher it becomes increasingly steep and exposed – and offers incredible grip.

If you head across from the car park on the toll road towards the start of the routes, you’ll first pass sport climbing sectors and short but challenging Multi-Pitch Climbing routes. This is the playground for anyone who feels comfortable with grades from 8. upwards.

In a very confined space, you can choose between a wide variety of protection styles here – and in places, you’ll definitely need to take the initiative yourself.

Route diversity: a blessing and a curse

The only downside to the rock face is that many of the well-known lines are not standalone routes, but combinations of different ascents or even individual pitches. Anyone needing guidance should study the topography carefully.

On the other hand, that is precisely the big advantage: depending on your energy levels and schedule, you can opt for a more challenging shortcut or an easier detour whilst you’re out there. This is worth its weight in gold, particularly on the upper section of the wall, where the exposure increases.

After the climb comes a swim: pack your swimwear and head to St. Ulrich on the Pillersee – jump in the water and let yourself drift.

A female climber on the ‘Ironlaus’ route on the Steinplatte

Tips and information

  • Snack stop: The Stallenalm is situated in the Steinplatte Ski Resort, just a ten-minute walk from the car park – a hearty snack spot with Tirolean ski-hut charm, conveniently located on the way back.
  • Accommodation: The PillerseeTal offers everything from spa hotels to Holiday Apartments. Highly recommended: the traditional inn and climbers’ haunt, the Adolariwirt, south of Waidring towards St. Ulrich am Pillersee.
  • Save yourself the access: If you’re staying in the valley, take the Steinplatten gondola. From the Top station, a short, steep, secured path leads down via ladders and steps towards the foot of the wall.
  • For families: On the way, you’ll find ‘Triassic Park’, an interactive outdoor Theme Park. 200 million years ago, this was the site of the ancient Tethys Sea.

The spots featured in this article

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