Via Ferrata Silberkarklamm – Rosina
Hidden within the dramatic limestone cliffs of the Silberkarklamm Gorge near Ramsau am Dachstein, the Via Ferrata Rosina is one of Austria’s most scenic and accessible iron paths. Carved through a narrow gorge where waterfalls crash and echo off sheer rock walls, this route combines alpine beauty with the thrill of vertical climbing — a perfect introduction to the Dachstein region’s via ferrata network.
Introduction
The Silberkarklamm Gorge is a natural wonder in the Austrian Alps, located just above Ramsau am Dachstein in Styria. The gorge is famous for its crystal-clear stream, tall rock faces, and three via ferrata routes that climb side by side — Hias, Siegmund & Siegmunde, and Rosina. Among them, Rosina stands out for its balance between challenge and beauty: it offers exposed climbing sections, refreshing spray from nearby waterfalls, and panoramic views of the surrounding Dachstein range.
Named after Rosina Huber, the wife of the local mountain guide who helped develop these routes, this via ferrata provides an unforgettable adventure in a setting that feels both wild and intimate.
Trail Overview
Location: Silberkarklamm Gorge, Ramsau am Dachstein, Styria, Austria
Via Ferrata Name: Rosina Klettersteig
Length: approx. 250 meters of climbing
Elevation gain: about 150 meters
Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours for the ferrata (plus 30–40 minutes approach)
Difficulty: C/D (intermediate to advanced)
Orientation: South and southwest facing
Season: May to October
Starting Point: Silberkarklamm parking area
Finish: Silberkarhütte (1,250 m) – mountain hut above the gorge
The Rosina route is rated as moderately difficult, making it suitable for experienced beginners or intermediate climbers who already feel comfortable on ferratas rated up to C. The route’s exposure, vertical walls, and the proximity to waterfalls give it a distinctly alpine character despite its short length.
Route Description
The adventure begins at the entrance to the Silberkarklamm Gorge, where a small wooden footpath leads hikers along the stream. After paying a modest entry fee to access the gorge, the trail ascends past waterfalls and narrow bridges before reaching the start of the via ferrata.
Approach (30–40 minutes):
Follow the marked path through the gorge, passing under the lower ferratas (Hias and Siegmund & Siegmunde). The Rosina start is clearly signposted near the upper part of the gorge.
Climbing Route:
The Rosina Klettersteig begins with a vertical start immediately demanding good balance and strength. The steel cable follows a sharp rock rib that rises steeply alongside cascading water. The climbing alternates between natural holds and iron rungs, with several airy traverses offering views deep into the gorge.
Halfway up, the route passes close to a waterfall — a thrilling moment as you climb through mist and echoing sound. The middle section offers sustained C-level climbing with some short D-grade sections where arm strength and steady footwork are crucial. Exposure increases toward the upper part, but the cable is continuous and well maintained.
The final meters ease into a more moderate slab leading up to the Silberkarhütte, a rustic alpine hut surrounded by pine forest and meadows — the perfect place to rest and enjoy the view.
Descent (20–30 minutes):
From the hut, follow the marked hiking trail that loops down through the forest back to the parking area.
Highlights
Spectacular Alpine Setting: A gorge carved by glaciers and water over thousands of years, with vertical walls rising above a rushing stream.
Waterfall Passage: The unique experience of climbing within arm’s reach of a waterfall spray.
Compact but Varied Route: A mix of vertical, diagonal, and slab sections, perfect for testing technique and endurance.
Panoramic Finish: The climb ends above the gorge with sweeping views over Ramsau and the Dachstein range.
Easy Access: The ferrata is reachable within minutes from Ramsau village, ideal for half-day adventures.
Difficulty and Required Skills
The Rosina Via Ferrata is graded C/D, meaning it requires good physical condition, steady footing, and arm strength for sustained vertical sections.
It is more demanding than the Hias Klettersteig (B/C) but slightly easier than the Siegmund & Siegmunde (D/E) route beside it. The exposure is significant but well protected, making it a safe and exhilarating climb for intermediate ferratists.
Recommended skills and equipment:
Basic via ferrata experience (at least one or two easier routes completed).
Familiarity with using a via ferrata set (lanyards, carabiners, and helmet).
Proper climbing shoes or sturdy approach footwear.
Comfort with heights and vertical exposure.
Children and absolute beginners should avoid this route unless accompanied by a certified guide.
When to Go
The best season runs from May to October, depending on snow conditions. The gorge’s lower altitude allows early summer access, though spring meltwater can make the rocks slippery and increase waterfall volume.
Late summer and early autumn offer the most stable weather and dry rock. Avoid visiting after heavy rain or during thunderstorms — the gorge becomes dangerous in wet conditions.
Morning climbs are often preferred, as the gorge receives direct sunlight later in the day, and the mist from the waterfalls can be refreshing in the early hours.
Access and Logistics
Nearest town: Ramsau am Dachstein (Styria, Austria)
Parking: Silberkarklamm car park (paid, near the gorge entrance)
Approach: 30–40 minutes walk through the gorge
Descent: 20–30 minutes via forest path from Silberkarhütte
Entry fee: Small fee for gorge maintenance (cash only)
Facilities:
Silberkarhütte (1,250 m): mountain hut serving food and drinks.
Equipment rental: available in Ramsau village or nearby sport shops.
Guides: local mountain schools offer guided tours for groups or individuals.
Getting There:
Ramsau am Dachstein lies about 7 km from Schladming, accessible by car or bus. Schladming is connected by train to major Austrian cities like Salzburg (1.5 hours) and Graz (2 hours).
Why It Belongs on Every Adventurer’s List
The Rosina Via Ferrata is the essence of what makes the Alps unforgettable — the combination of wild natural beauty, technical climbing, and a sense of discovery. Few via ferratas manage to pack so much variety, exposure, and charm into such a compact setting.
Whether you’re looking to push your limits or simply experience one of the most atmospheric gorges in Austria, Rosina delivers the perfect balance between challenge and enjoyment.
It’s a route where every move feels alive — surrounded by water, rock, and the unmistakable pulse of alpine nature.
