Climbing at the Dachstein
A paradise for climbing enthusiasts
On the Dachstein, 14 via ferratas and a variety of climbing routes await you. The via ferratas on the Dachstein offer varying levels of difficulty and challenges. The Dachstein South Face is also a well-known destination for experienced mountaineers. Anyone interested in alpine climbing on the Dachstein or climbing routes in Ramsau am Dachstein should always choose a route that matches their skill level and alpine experience.
Well Prepared for the Via Ferrata
Before every hike, check the difficulty level, approach, duration, and current conditions of your chosen route. Weather, wet conditions, snow, and ice can quickly change conditions in high-alpine terrain.
Depending on the route, appropriate gear includes, among other things, a climbing harness, via ferrata set, helmet, sturdy hiking boots, and weatherproof clothing. Also, be sure to check for current closures and on-site notices.
For challenging tours or if you have little alpine experience, we recommend contacting a local mountaineering or alpine school.
Which via ferrata is right for you? Here,we’ll take a closer look at two selected via ferratas on the Dachstein.
Austria Sinabell Via Ferrata
TheAustria Sinabell Via Ferrataisone of the newer via ferratas on the Dachstein. The route runs along the southwest-facing wall of the Sinabell and is classified as difficult ( difficulty level C ). Steep and exposed sections are partially made easier by footholds. From the summit, you can enjoy sweeping views over the Enns Valley and the Schladminger Tauern. This makes the Sinabell a varied climbing option on the Dachstein and a challenging climbing route in Ramsau am Dachstein.
Approach and Route Information
Theapproach begins at the Feisterer parking lot in Ramsau am Dachstein and follows a marked, partly steep hiking trail to the Guttenberghaus. From the Guttenberghaus, continue toward the Feistererscharte and branch off below the Sinabell’s rocky cliffs to reach the start of the route. The tour takes about 3.5 hours and covers an elevation gain of approximately 1,000 meters. The starting point is the Guttenberghaus at 2,146 m.
Irg II Via Ferrata on the Koppenkarstein
The Irg II via ferrata on the Koppenkarstein was built by experienced via ferrata builder Hans Prugger and combines varied traverses with steeper sections. In addition to traverses offering spectacular views, you’ll also encounter steep pillars that require strength and confident climbing. The via ferrata should therefore not be underestimated. If you enjoy challenging routes and want to combine climbing on the Dachstein with high-alpine panoramic views, the Irg II is an exciting tour on the Koppenkarstein.
Safety on the Dachstein
Due to its elevation of about 2,700 m and its exposed location, the Dachstein has unique weather conditions. The weather can change drastically in a short amount of time. You should always take these sudden weather changes seriously in the high mountains. Therefore, plan every hike carefully and adapt it to your skill level, the current conditions, and the weather. Be sure to bring appropriate clothing and the equipment necessary for your hike.
Be Well-Prepared for Your Trip
- Before your trip,find out about the duration, difficulty, weather, and current conditions.
- If you have questions about routes and tours, contact tourist offices, mountain guides, or alpine schools well in advance.
- On via ferrata routes,be especiallyaware of the danger posed by thunderstorms and lightning strikes.
- For glacier tours, you’ll need the appropriate glacier gear depending on the route—for example, crampons, an ice axe, and a rope.
- Alpine experience, proper belaying techniques, and appropriate gear are essential for challenging tours and via ferratas.
Our tip:
Mountain Guides for Dachstein Tours
For challenging tours on the Dachstein, we recommend that you be accompanied by a mountain and ski guide who is familiar with the area. Especially on high-alpine tours, via ferrata routes, glacier traverses, or freeride routes, you’ll benefit from their experience,local knowledge, and a professional assessment of current conditions.
A mountain guide will assist you with tour planning, assess weather, snow, and avalanche conditions, and help you choose the right route. This way, you can experience your Dachstein tour well-prepared and at a level appropriate for your skill.
When selecting a provider, we recommend contacting a local mountain or alpine school.
RAMSAU MOUNTAIN GUIDE OFFICE
Guided tours, courses, information
www.bergfuehrer-dachstein.at
VIA FERRATA & SUMMIT CONQUERTS
Herbert Raffalt Alpine School
State-certified mountain and ski guide
www.raffalt.com
DACHSTEIN TAUERN ADVENTURE
www.dt-adventure.at
BERG UND ABENTEUER HELI RETTENSTEINER
Alpine School in the Schladming-Dachstein Region
www.bergundabenteuer.at
MOUNTAIN GUIDES SCHLADMING
Patrick Laszlo
www.bergfuehrer-schladming.at
DACHSTEIN ALPINE CENTER
www.alpincenter-dachstein.at
