ca. 25 min.
away from Obertauern
1. Franzi Via Ferrata (Reiteralm) – The sporty route with a lake view
The Franzi via ferrata on the Gasselhöhe is one of the absolute scenic gems of the Radstadt Tauern. It offers a wonderfully athletic route along solid, ancient rock and rewards every step with a magnificent view of the reflective Gassel lakes and the Dachstein massif opposite.
- Location & Accessibility: The via ferrata is located on the Reiteralm. It can be reached from Obertauern via Radstadt in about 25 minutes by car. Access is via the Preunegg-Jet gondola, followed by a short hike towards Gasselhöhe to reach the start of the climb. The route finishes right on the grassy ridge of the mountain.
- Difficulty: C to D (predominantly B/C, with two challenging, steep crux sections rated D)
- Key Facts: Climbing time: approx. 1 hour | Vertical gain: approx. 130 m | Approach: 35 min.
- Character: A modern, excellently secured sport via ferrata. The route offers varied climbing, featuring zigzag sections, steep slabs, and an exposed pillar edge. Thanks to its altitude and orientation, the rock remains pleasantly cool in summer.
ca 5 min.
away from Obertauern
2. Wurmwand West Ridge – The alpine adventure right in Obertauern
The Wurmwand West Ridge – An alpine adventure right in Obertauern. For those wishing to embark on a vertical adventure straight from the mountain pass—without needing a car—the Wurmwand West Ridge is the perfect choice. It is important to note that this is not a standard sport via ferrata with a continuous steel cable; rather, it is a challenging alpine ridge traverse that demands direct rock contact and alpine experience.
- Geographic Location & Accessibility: The striking Wurmwand rises directly above the Obertauern ski bowl. The starting point is the Seekarhaus (1,800 meters); from there, the route ascends toward the Seekarsattel to reach the start of the prominent rocky ridge. The exit point is near the summit of the Seekarspitze.
- Difficulty: Grade II (UIAA scale / alpine terrain; exposed in places)
- Key Facts: Climbing time: approx. 1.5 to 2 hours | Vertical gain: approx. 150 m (ridge section only) | Approach: 45 min.
- Character: Traditional, rugged scrambling on ancient rock for experienced alpinists. As the route is not continuously secured with cables, absolute surefootedness, a head for heights, and proficiency in moving over unsecured rock (or moving on a short rope)—as well as a climbing helmet—are mandatory.
ca. 30 min.
away from Obertauern
3. The Seewand Via Ferrata (Zauchensee)– The perfect beginner’s via ferrata by the mountain lake
The Seewand via ferrata is the exact opposite of the rugged Wurmwand Ridge. Laid out right above the waters of the idyllic Zauchensee, this very short, incredibly charming route is the perfect spot for via ferrata beginners, leisure climbers, and active families.
- Location & Accessibility: Situated in the nearby World Cup resort of Zauchensee, approximately a 30-minute drive from Obertauern (access via Altenmarkt). The starting point is located directly on the lake's shady eastern shore and can be reached in just a 5-minute walk from the main car park.
- Difficulty: A to B (Very easy; ideal for a first taste of the activity)
- Key Facts: Climbing time: approx. 45 minutes | Vertical gain: approx. 60 m | Approach: 5 min.
- Character: A creative route that stays close to the ground. It mostly traverses just above the shoreline and the water. The main highlights for children and beginners are the wobbly suspension bridges and wooden elements, which help improve balance in a fun, playful way.
Technical specifications in direct comparison
| Via ferrata | Type | Duration (ca.) | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Franzi (Reiteralm) | Sport via ferrata | 60 Min. | C / D (difficult) |
| Wurmwand Westgrat | Alpine rocky ridge | 90 – 120 Min. | II (UIAA) / Alpin !!! |
| Seewand | Lakeside Via Ferrata | 45 Min. | A / B (easy) |
| Via ferrata | Franzi (Reiteralm) | Wurmwand Westgrat | Seewand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Sport via ferrata | Alpine rocky ridge | Lakeside Via Ferrata |
| Duration (ca.) | 60 Min. | 90 – 120 Min. | 45 Min. |
| Difficulty | C / D (difficult) | II (UIAA) / Alpin !!! | A / B (easy) |
Via ferrata equipment in Obertauern
For a safe and comfortable via ferrata experience in Serfaus, we recommend high-quality equipment:
- Helmet and gloves
- Weatherproof and breathable clothing
- Backpack with hydration system and first aid kit
Via ferrata harness and safety gear
Our sports shop in Serfaus offers the latest via ferrata equipment for sale, along with expert advice at affordable prices.
