Join us for an unforgettable climb to Grossglockner, the highest mountain in Austria and one of the most iconic peaks in the Alps. With its dramatic ridges, sweeping glaciers and postcard-perfect views, it’s the kind of adventure every mountain lover dreams of.
You can choose between two routes:
- Stüdlgrat Ridge (III UIAA) – a more technical, exposed climb
Max. 2 clients per guide - Normal Route (II UIAA) – the classic ascent suitable for strong hikers with basic climbing experience
Max. 3 clients per guide
Throughout the whole climb, you’ll travel over glacier terrain and exposed rocky sections while roped up to a certified mountain guide who ensures safety, pacing and a smooth experience.
This is an adventure that combines challenge, safety and the pure joy of standing on top of Austria’s highest mountain.
Route Options
- Normal Route (Normalweg)
- Stüdlgrat Ridge
Itinerary – Grossglockner Ascent
Day 1 – Hike to Stüdlhütte
We meet in the afternoon at the Lucknerhaus parking area (Kals am Großglockner) and start our approach to Stüdlhütte. It’s an easy hike with beautiful views. We spend the night at the hut and prepare for the summit push.
Day 2 – Summit Grossglockner & Descent
We start before sunrise and head toward the 3,798 m summit.
Depending on your chosen route, we climb via the Normal Route through Erzherzog-Johann-Hütte, or via the more exposed Stüdlgrat.
After reaching the summit, we descend back to Lucknerhaus, where the tour ends.
How Difficult Is the Grossglockner Climb?
To climb Grossglockner, you need very good fitness and some experience in high-mountain terrain. Depending on the route, the technical grade is I–III UIAA.
You will be roped up the entire time, which increases safety on the glacier and exposed sections.
Recommended Training Before Grossglockner
Being in shape and comfortable in exposed alpine terrain will make the climb easier and more enjoyable. Great preparation includes tours such as:
- Traverse of Ľadové štíty (from Hrebienok)
- Pyšné štíty ridge to Lomnický štít (from Hrebienok)
- Any long alpine hike with 1,000+ meters of elevation gain
These tours help you adapt to exposure, long ascents and high altitude—exactly what you’ll experience on Grossglockner.
How Long Is the Summit Day?
The duration depends on conditions, group fitness and the chosen route:
- Normal Route: 8–10 hours round-trip
- Stüdlgrat: 10–12 hours, more technical and demanding
This includes both ascent and descent back to Lucknerhaus.
Equipment for Grossglockner
Good gear is essential for your comfort and safety. You’ll be moving on a glacier, climbing exposed rocky terrain, and dealing with typical alpine weather.
You will need:
- Mountaineering boots
- Crampons, ice axe, helmet, harness
- 30–40 L alpine backpack
- Technical outdoor clothing
- Gloves and hat
- Food + at least 1.5 L of water
- Thermos
- Insurance
This isn’t just a gear list—your equipment is key to a successful and safe summit day.
Price Includes
- Certified mountain guide
- Photos from the climb
- Equipment rental
- Summit certificate
Price Does Not Include
- Transport to Kals am Großglockner
- Accommodation in the hut
- Meals
- Personal insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best season to climb Grossglockner?
The best season to climb Grossglockner is from July to mid-September.
During this period, conditions are usually the most stable – the glacier is easier to cross, the rocky sections tend to stay dry, and the weather is generally more reliable.
Climbing outside this window, especially in spring or autumn, is noticeably riskier. Avalanche danger increases, many sections become icy, and the weather can change much more quickly.
Do I need previous climbing experience?
Climbing Grossglockner is a technically and physically demanding high-mountain ascent. It requires experience in exposed terrain, confidence on glaciers and rocky sections, and very good physical fitness. During the climb, you will move in crampons, roped up, and often using an ice axe. Previous climbing or mountaineering experience is not required.
What are the main risks?
Exposed Terrain
The final section to the summit follows a narrow rocky ridge, where sure-footedness and full concentration are essential.
Altitude Sickness and Fatigue
A rapid ascent without proper acclimatization can cause headaches, nausea, and weakness. The climb is physically demanding, so excellent fitness is required.
Weather
Rapid weather changes, strong winds, fog, or storms can significantly affect the safety of the ascent.
Falling Rocks
There is a risk of loose rocks, especially in warmer parts of the day and on rocky sections.
What happens if the weather is too bad to climb?
Weather in the mountains is unpredictable, so we always monitor current conditions closely. If conditions become unsafe, the ascent may be postponed or adjusted for your safety.
Prices
Prices are per group.
| Variant | 1 person | 2 people | 3 people (summer only) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Normal Route | €850 | €900 | €1000 |
| Stüdlgrat | €850 | €900 | — |
Available Dates
June 2026: 9 spots available
| Code | Code: 66 |
|---|---|
| Category: | Climbing Tours |
