When winter comes and turns the waterfalls of the Pitztal Valley into giant towers of ice, it is time to get out the ice pick and crampons. Between the Pitztal Glacier and the Hochzeiger mountain there are 45 ice climbing routes covering all difficulty levels.
Beginners will find easy climbs at the Taschachschlucht while advanced and expert climbers can challenge themselves on the Havanna Route. Further popular climbs include the Hexenbesen and the Notwegfall.
Ice climbing in the Pitztal Valley
Frozen waterfalls and cool heads
The ice clings to the rock like a heavy curtain pulled in winter, shimmering in a thousand shades of white and blue in the morning sun. Mission impossible? Think again! Ice climbing is a sport which is surprisingly accessible with the right equipment and the help of an experienced guide. Unlike indoor rock climbing there are no designated handholds and footholds – instead, climbers must create their own with ice picks and crampons. Full concentration is required, but don't forget to stop every now and then to turn your head and admire the wonderful scenery of the Pitztal Valley from above. An unforgettable winter experience!
Ice climbing event in the Pitztal Valley
Technique sessions, igloo-building workshops, the latest equipment to test – the "Eis total" ice climbing festival in the Pitztal Valley has everything fans of this winter sport could wish for. It takes place in the village of St. Leonhard im Pitztal from 21 until 23 January 2022.