Via Ferrata Achensee – 5 Gipfel
Perched high above the turquoise waters of Lake Achensee in Tyrol, Austria, the 5 Gipfel Klettersteig (Five Peaks Via Ferrata) is one of Europe’s most spectacular fixed-rope routes. Linking five mountain summits along the Rofan range, this route combines thrilling exposure with breathtaking alpine scenery.
It’s a full-day adventure that tests endurance, climbing technique, and courage, rewarding every effort with unmatched views over the Tyrolean Alps.
Trail Overview
Location: Rofan Mountains, Tyrol, Austria
Starting Point: Top station of the Rofan Cable Car (Maurach)
Route Type: Circular / Ridge traverse (via ferrata route)
Peaks Climbed: Haidachstellwand (2,192 m), Rosskopf (2,246 m), Seekarlspitze (2,261 m), Spieljoch (2,236 m), Hochiss (2,299 m)
Difficulty: C/D (intermediate to difficult sections)
Total Duration: 6–8 hours for the full traverse
Length: Approx. 1.5 km of secured climbing sections (total hike ~12 km)
Elevation Gain: ~900 m
Season: June to October (depending on snow conditions)
This unique route was designed to be completed either in a single demanding day or in separate sections, allowing climbers to choose their level of challenge.
Route Description
The 5 Gipfel Klettersteig begins at the Rofan Cable Car mountain station, where the alpine world opens up above Lake Achensee. From here, a marked trail leads toward the first peak, and the iron ladders and cables soon appear, signaling the start of the via ferrata.
1. Haidachstellwand (2,192 m)
The route starts with moderate climbing (difficulty B/C), following metal rungs and steel cables up solid limestone. This section serves as a warm-up, introducing the exposure and rhythm of the day. From the summit cross, panoramic views stretch over Lake Achensee and the Karwendel Mountains.
2. Rosskopf (2,246 m)
A short descent and traverse lead to the second summit. The climbing becomes steeper (C/D) with longer vertical sections. The route demands surefootedness and confidence in using the harness and lanyards efficiently.
3. Seekarlspitze (2,261 m)
One of the most striking peaks of the traverse, Seekarlspitze features airy ridges and a spectacular final pull to the summit. Here, the exposure increases — a breathtaking combination of solid limestone holds and dizzying drops to the lake far below.
4. Spieljoch (2,236 m)
After a short hiking interlude, the next ferrata section continues across a series of ledges and rocky towers. Though technically moderate (B/C), fatigue often becomes a factor at this stage, and careful pacing is key.
5. Hochiss (2,299 m)
The final and highest peak of the traverse, Hochiss, crowns the journey. This section involves both hiking and short secured climbs. From the summit, the full arc of the Tyrolean Alps unfolds — from the Karwendel range to the Zillertal Alps in the east.
The descent follows an alpine trail back toward the cable car station or via the Dalfazalm hut, offering a well-deserved rest and refreshment.
Highlights
Five summits in one continuous ridge traverse – a rare and unforgettable alpine experience.
Panoramic views over Lake Achensee, known as the “Fjord of Tyrol.”
Diverse climbing terrain: from vertical walls and exposed ridges to grassy connecting paths.
Perfect combination of challenge and accessibility: can be done in one day or split into shorter routes.
Impeccable safety equipment: the entire route is secured with modern steel cables, iron steps, and anchor points.
Difficulty and Required Skills
The 5 Gipfel Klettersteig is graded C/D on the via ferrata scale, meaning moderately difficult to difficult. It requires:
Good physical fitness and endurance: 6–8 hours of continuous alpine effort.
Experience on via ferrata routes: familiarity with clipping and unclipping, moving efficiently on iron rungs, and maintaining balance on exposed terrain.
No fear of heights: several sections are highly exposed with vertical drops on both sides.
Essential equipment: via ferrata set (harness, lanyards with energy absorber, helmet, gloves), proper mountain shoes, and adequate clothing for changing alpine weather.
For less experienced climbers, guided tours are available locally and are highly recommended to ensure safety.
When to Go
The Achensee via ferrata is generally open from June to October, depending on snowmelt and weather conditions.
June–July: cooler temperatures and snow patches at higher points.
August–September: ideal conditions, stable weather, and clear views.
October: quieter trails but colder temperatures and early snow possible.
Always check weather forecasts before departure; storms and strong winds can make exposed sections dangerous.
Access and Logistics
Starting Point:
The route begins at the Rofan Cable Car (Rofanseilbahn) in Maurach am Achensee, Tyrol.
By Car: From Innsbruck (~1 hour), follow A12 motorway to Wiesing, then continue to Maurach.
By Train: Trains to Jenbach, then local bus or taxi to the cable car base station.
By Cable Car: The Rofan Cable Car takes hikers to the starting point at 1,840 m.
Facilities:
Huts and refreshment points:
Erfurter Hütte (1,834 m) near the cable car top station — excellent base or overnight option.
Dalfazalm (1,693 m) – perfect for a post-climb stop on descent.
Guided tours and rental gear available at Achensee or Maurach.
Why It Belongs on Every Adventurer’s List
The 5 Gipfel Klettersteig captures the pure essence of alpine adventure — freedom, exposure, endurance, and awe.
It is one of the few via ferrata routes in Europe that links multiple summits in a single continuous ridge, offering constant excitement and reward.
From the metallic ring of your carabiners on cold steel to the silence atop Hochiss, every moment carries the weight of true alpine achievement.
This is not just a climb; it’s an immersive experience above one of Austria’s most beautiful lakes, where every meter gained brings new perspective and unforgettable beauty.
For those ready to embrace altitude, challenge, and vertigo, the Achensee 5 Gipfel Klettersteig stands as one of the most remarkable via ferrata routes in the Alps.
