Dachstein Westridge (Westgrat)

moderate partially opened Via ferratas · A/B · Ramsau am Dachstein

Current Conditions
27/08/ - 03/11/24

The approach to the via ferratas "Schulteranstieg" and "Randkluftanstieg" is only possible with glacier equipment (crampons, ice axe and rope) and mountaineering experience.

Shoulder ascent:
There is a life danger at the start of the shoulder via ferrata, as the edge crevasse to the rock is heavily undercut and there is therefore a risk of collapse.
The danger is difficult to recognise from the access route!!!

Edge fissure ascent:
The Randkluft ascent is only accessible with difficulty and with sound mountaineering experience.
The Randkluft is in danger of collapsing and the crevasse zone below the Randkluft is difficult to read. Glacier equipment including rope is absolutely essential!

We recommend the Dachstein summit ascent with a local mountain guide.
Dachstein mountain guide: +43 664 522 0080

Tour characteristics
Stamina
Tour-Infos
Distance: 6.87 km
Duration: 06:30 h
Ascent: 550 m
Descent: 300 m
Best time of year
january
february
march
april
may
june
july
august
september
october
november
december
The tour

The Dachstein Westgrat Klettersteig up the Hoher Dachstein is often attemptedin combination with a crossing of the summit and descent via the Randkluftsteig or Schulter Klettersteig. A moderately difficult via ferrata in high-alpine terrain surrounded by extraordinarily beautiful landscapes, with access and descent across the glacier.

Comments:

Vital when crossing the glacier - dangerous crevasses - crampons and ropes are essential.


Turn-by-turn directions

Approach:

Until just before the Seethalerhütte, then to the Steinerscharte (secured by stell cables in parts, rated up to level B), then descend on the west side to the Gosau glacier (with rungs and safety cables). From there, ascend heading south to the Obere Windluke, then left to the foot of the western ridge (start of the safety features).

Descent:

Descend via the Randkluftsteig, but only if the condition of the glacier crevasses permits. From ca. the beginning of August, you will have to descend via the Randkluftsteig and Schulteranstieg.

Getting there

Arriving from the west:

From the west you can take the Munich-Salzburg motorway, continuing on the Tauern motorway (A 10) until the Ennstal junction. From here take the Ennstal A-road (the B 320) for around 30 km into the Schladming-Dachstein region, then take the Ramsau am Dachstein turn-off. Drive through the Ramsau Village and then turn left to Dachstein toll road. Continue up to the parking place Türlwand Hütte.

Arriving from the north:

From the south-east take the Pyhrnautobahn motorway (A 9) to the Liezen junction and then the Ennstal A-road (B 320) into the Schladming-Dachstein region. Then take the Ramsau am Dachstein turn-off. Drive through the Ramsau Village and then turn left to Dachstein toll road. Continue up to the parking place Türlwand Hütte.

Parking
Start
Bottom station Dachstein glacier
Destination
Top station Dachstein glacier
Equipment

Hiking Via Ferrata routes is a demanding sport in rugged terrain. For your safety, please observe the following rules: 

  • Via Ferrata routes are demanding and require a good level of fitness, no hight vertigo and sure-footedness.
  • Always use a helmet and, a Via Ferrata kit to attach yourself to the safety rope. Many mountain rescue missions are a result of carelessness and bad weather conditions.
  • Many routes require most of the day. When planning a tour, always include the possibility of a sudden change of weather. Be prepared: carry spare clothing and a good stock of food supplies.
  • Always show respect towards fellow mountaineers. Inform them about possible dangers if need be.
  • Take care of our environment. Only take photographs and memories with you - leave no trace.

 Alpine Emergency Numbers

Mountain rescue              140 

Euro Emergency Call       112

Via ferrata equipment, Glacier equipment

Weather forecast

Date
in the morning
5°C
at noon
13°C
in the evening
8°C
Dry and sunny throughout the day with hardly any clouds.
in the morning
6°C
at noon
16°C
in the evening
8°C
Dry and bright with plenty of sunshine, clouds will be rare.
in the morning
5°C
at noon
12°C
in the evening
6°C
Dry and bright with plenty of sunshine, clouds will be rare.

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