Hochfeiler, Wipptal Travel Guide

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Conquer the Gran Pilastro, the Zillertal Alps' highest peak, for panoramic views and a challenging mountaineering experience.

Hochfeiler, also known as Gran Pilastro in Italian, is the highest peak in the Zillertal Alps, standing at 3,510 meters (11,520 feet). Located on the border between Tyrol, Austria, and South Tyrol, Italy, it offers stunning panoramic views and a challenging climb for experienced mountaineers.

A brief summary to Hochfeiler

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Hochfeiler.

The best time to climb Hochfeiler is between July and September when the weather is more stable and the snow has melted.
Book your stay at the Hochfeilerhütte in advance, especially during peak season, as it's a popular base for climbers.
Be prepared for changing weather conditions, even in summer. Pack layers, including waterproof and windproof gear.
If you're planning to climb the north face, be aware of the extreme steepness, crevasse danger, and avalanche risk.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Explore Hochfeiler on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Hochfeiler, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Innsbruck, take a train to St. Jodok am Brenner or Brennero/Brenner. From there, local buses or taxis can take you to the Pfitsch Valley. From the valley, you can reach the trailheads leading to Hochfeiler. Train tickets from Innsbruck to Brennero/Brenner typically cost around €10-€20. Bus or taxi fares from Brennero to the valley will vary, estimate €15-€30.
Driving

From Sterzing/Vipiteno, follow the signs for Val di Vizze/Pfitschertal. The road becomes narrow as you approach the village of Stein/Sasso. Continue on the macadam road towards Pfitscher Joch/Passo di Vizze to one of the parking lots. Parking is limited, especially during peak season. Parking fees are typically around €5-€10 per day.
Hiking

From the parking lots in Pfitsch Valley, follow the well-marked trails towards Hochfeilerhütte. The most popular route starts at the third hairpin bend on the road to Pfitscher Joch. The hike to the hut takes approximately 3-4 hours. From the hut, the ascent to the summit is another 2-3 hours for experienced hikers.

Discover more about Hochfeiler

Hochfeiler, or Gran Pilastro, is a majestic mountain that reigns as the highest point in the Zillertal Alps. Straddling the border between Austria and Italy, this peak presents a compelling challenge for experienced climbers and rewards them with breathtaking views.The mountain's character differs starkly depending on the approach. From the Austrian side, particularly when viewed from the Schlegeis reservoir, Hochfeiler presents an icy and imposing north face. This steep wall, reaching up to 55 degrees in some sections, is a classic challenge for experienced mountaineers, though the presence of crevasses and avalanche dangers demands respect.In contrast, the southwestern approach from Pfitsch Valley in Italy offers a more gradual ascent along smoother flanks. This is the location of the normal route to the summit, which is usually snow-free during the summer.For those seeking a less strenuous experience, the Hochfeilerhütte, a mountain hut at 2,710 meters (8,891 feet), provides a perfect base. Built between 1984 and 1986, it offers lodging and meals, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the alpine environment. From the hut, experienced hikers can embark on the final ascent to the summit, a journey of roughly 2.5 hours. The summit itself is marked by a wooden cross, a testament to the accomplishment of reaching the Zillertal Alps' highest point.The first ascent of Hochfeiler was made on July 24, 1865, by Paul Grohmann, Georg Samer, and Peter Fuchs. Today, the mountain continues to draw mountaineers seeking a rewarding climb and unparalleled alpine vistas.