Obergurgl Zirbenwald Via Ferrata

Character
Right at the beginning - when you cross the suspension bridge - surefootedness and a good head for heights are absolutely required. A steel rope for via ferrata sets is available as well. The family-friendly route features two difficult grade-C sections where previous via ferrata experience is recommended. Pleasant and easy walking trail to the access area, ideal also for onlookers who can watch the sportsmen close-by. Difficulty/equipmentVia Ferrata basic knowledge is necessary.This via ferrata is graded B-C, most sections are of intermediate difficulty (B) and therefore also perfect for families with children over 10 years - if using an additional safety rope. Equipment: helmet, harness and complete via ferrata climbing set, via ferrata gloves, appropriate climbing shoes.Trail length and time required 100 meters altitude gain, 400 m rope length, approx. 1.5-2 hours; about 3 hours incl. descent.DescentVia hiking trail no. 9 towards Obergurgl.Getting there/access routeLeaving behind Sölden, you follow the federal road to Obergurgl for another 30 minutes. Car parks are available at the church (for a charge) or at the Festkogelbahn mountain gondola (for free). Then you follow the Zirbenwald stone pine forest trail to Davids Hütte where you find the access point.

Schwärzenkamm Via Ferrata

Character
A truly breathtaking panoramic via ferrata amid Obergurgl's glacier world. The route is not extremely difficult but quite demanding due to its high Alpine location and the north-facing walls. Previous via ferrata experience is absolutely required. There are enough footholds and also two emergency exits (marked) which allow shortcuts.

Difficulty/equipment
Starting with easy grade-A/B sections, the route becomes more difficult at the end (C/D). The eye-catching grass area after the first third of the via ferrata makes a perfect place for a rest stop. Here you can also leave the route via two emergency exits.
Equipment: helmet, harness and complete via ferrata climbing set, via ferrata gloves, appropriate climbing shoes, hiking poles for the descent (recommended).

Trail length and time required
350 meters altitude gain (2410 - 2760 m), 700 m climbing trail length, approx. 3 hours; 4 hours incl. descent to Langtalereck Hütte.

Descent
From the exit area you reach Hochwilde Haus in about 40 minutes, Langtalereck Hütte in 60 minutes and Obergurgl in about 2.5 hours.

Getting there/access route
From Obergurgl you walk towards Langtalereck Hütte (2.5 hrs), keeping to the trail (no. 35) in direction Hochwilde Haus. After 20 minutes you reach the via ferrata access point (follow signposts).