Demanding ski touring.
For experienced ski mountaineers.

The Zirmkogel is a classic spring ski tour, although it can also be possible in midwinter when avalanche conditions are favourable.

A very steep initial slope requires solid skinning technique on the ascent and reliable ski technique on the descent. The long climb demands good fitness and efficient pacing.

Several descent variants offer excellent skiing. We choose the final line according to snow quality, avalanche conditions and the ability of the group.

This beautifully shaped summit offers a serious high-alpine day and wide views across the glaciated peaks of the Ötztal Alps.

Using the Festkogel lift saves around 500 vertical metres of piste ascent and starts the day with a 200-metre descent. Strong skiers may add a couloir into the Ferwall Valley and substantially extend the descent.

The steep summit face is reserved for very experienced skiers and requires reliably safe snow and avalanche conditions.

This major ski mountaineering tour requires experienced ski tourers, stable weather and reliably safe conditions. Throughout the ascent, the views open towards the great Ötztal summits and the Italian mountains.

Depending on conditions, we climb via the Rotmoosjoch and Planferner or over the steep Wasserfallferner. Solid kick-turn technique is essential on both routes.

Using the Hohe Mut lift saves approximately 300 vertical metres and around two hours. In good conditions, the descent over the Wasserfallferner is outstanding.

This long ski mountaineering tour reaches a classic summit on the Gurgler ridge. A small hanging glacier and the steep final slope give the route its distinctive character.

An alternative ascent through the Rotmoos Valley reaches the west summit. A steep section on foot and the narrow snow ridge to the main summit create an elegant traverse for sure-footed ski tourers on the guide’s rope.

From the exposed border summit, the panorama takes in numerous 3,000-metre peaks across the Ötztal Alps.

The extremely steep upper north-west face and the transition from the Gaisbergferner to the Hochfirstferner require very solid kick-turn technique and experience in exposed terrain.

Using both sections of the Hohe Mut lift saves around 450 vertical metres and begins the day with a 200-metre descent.

The summit descent is a serious objective for excellent, experienced skiers and suitable conditions only. The views towards the Gaisbergferner, Pfelderer Valley and the surrounding Ötztal summits are exceptional.