Stunning glacial tour across the Pasterze, the longest glacier in the Eastern Alps

Experience of walking with crampons, basic knowledge of crevasse rescue techniques and orientation; sure-footedness on the summit ridge.

A good path, involving long glacial stretches and a few sections across rock

Slightly exposed

Rucksack, alpine boots with ankle support and a good-grip rubber sole, woollen or skiing socks, anorak with a hood (Goretex), waterproofs, cap, gloves, sun glasses (with high-quality UV protection), sun cream, lip protection, spare clothing, water bottle. Safety equipment will be provided by the mountain guide (crampons, harness, rope, etc.).

Alpine Association map no. 40, "Glocknergruppe"

Oberwalder Hut

The first ascent was made on 11th September 1844 by a group of six people, including two Heiligenblut mountain guides.

Travel to Heiligenblut
Take the Grossglockner Road to the Franz-Josef-Höhe

Kaiser Franz Josefs Höhe, on the Grossglockner High-Alpine Road

- Kaiser Franz Josefs Höhe – Oberwalder Hut, 2 ½ hrs. Follow the Gamsgruben path, through the tunnels and as far as Wasserfallwinkel. Then there is an easy stretch of climbing over smooth rocks, that will take you onto the glacier. The marked path will bring you to the Oberwalder Hut.

- Oberwalder Hut – Johannisberg (3 hrs.) The ascent, crossing the top of the Pasterze glacier floor, and by way of the eastern flank of the mountain and the "Himmelsleiter" ("Heaven's Ladder"), taking you up to a height of over 3,400 m, is a terrific glacial tour. Beware! On the ascent there is a sprawling network of crevasses. Gorgeous panoramic view from the summit! It ranges from the Watzmann in the north to the Dachstein, and to the glacial roof of the Venediger in the west. There is a view down into the valleys, highlighting the contrast between glacial ice and lakes.