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Arlberger Winterklettersteig: A High-Altitude Winter Adventure

Scale icy cliffs and traverse snow-covered ridges on Tyrol's unique winter via ferrata, offering breathtaking alpine views near St. Anton.

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The Arlberger Winterklettersteig is a thrilling via ferrata route near St. Anton am Arlberg, Austria, offering a unique winter climbing experience. This secured route combines climbing with stunning alpine views, making it a memorable adventure for experienced climbers.

A brief summary to Arlberger Winterklettersteig

Local tips

  • Check avalanche conditions and weather forecast before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
  • Consider hiring a local mountain guide, especially if you are not experienced in winter alpine conditions.
  • Bring an extra sling to extend your reach on the steel cable, as it can sometimes be positioned high above the snow.
  • Ensure you have appropriate winter sports equipment, including skis or a snowboard, to descend after completing the via ferrata.
  • Be prepared for a physically demanding activity, as climbing in ski boots and carrying equipment can be tiring.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From St. Anton am Arlberg train station, take the local bus to the Rendlbahn gondola. From the Rendlbahn valley station, ride the gondola up to Rendlalm, then ski down to Riffelbahn I. Take Riffelbahn I and II to the Riffelscharte. The entrance to the Winterklettersteig is a short walk from the Riffelbahn II mountain station. A pedestrian ticket for the Rendlbahn costs €24. Bus transport in St. Anton is generally free.

  • Walking

    From the center of St. Anton, walk to the Rendlbahn valley station. From there, it is necessary to take the Rendlbahn gondola and connecting lifts (Riffelbahn I and II) to reach the start of the via ferrata. Walking to the start of the climb from St. Anton is not practical in winter due to the distance and elevation gain.

  • Parking

    If driving, park at the Rendl car park or Nasserein car park in St. Anton. Daily parking rates are approximately €7 for cars. From either car park, proceed to the Rendlbahn valley station to begin your ascent via gondola and connecting lifts. Parking can be limited, especially during peak season.

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Discover more about Arlberger Winterklettersteig

The Arlberger Winterklettersteig presents a unique and challenging alpine experience, located high in the Verwall-Gruppe mountains near St. Anton am Arlberg. This via ferrata, or 'iron path,' is specifically designed for winter conditions, offering a thrilling combination of rock climbing and snow-covered ridge traversing. The route begins at an elevation of 2,650 meters, accessible via a series of ski lifts from St. Anton. From the top of the Riffelbahn II lift, a short walk leads to the start of the fixed route. The via ferrata then follows a ridgeline, leading adventurers over the Vordere-Rendlespitze and down to the Mitterkarspitze. The 850-meter-long route is secured with a steel cable, and about 20% of it involves direct climbing on rock, while the remainder is walking along the ridge. While not exceedingly difficult, the Arlberger Winterklettersteig demands alpine experience and appropriate equipment, including a via ferrata set, harness, helmet, and touring boots. Conditions can vary dramatically, with the steel cable sometimes buried under snow, requiring extra caution. Depending on conditions, crampons and an ice axe might be necessary. After completing the via ferrata, the adventure continues with a ski or snowboard descent through the Malfontal valley to Pettneu or via the Moostal back to St. Anton. This descent offers stunning views and a rewarding conclusion to the climb.

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