Highlight • Summit
Greifenberg Summit
Hiking
5.0
(45)
Mountaineering
5.0
(14)
The Greifenberg Summit, standing proudly at 2665 meters, is a prominent peak within the majestic Schladminger Tauern mountain range in Austria. Renowned as one of the highest points in the region, this challenging summit offers breathtaking panoramic views and is a highlight for experienced hikers exploring the alpine landscape. It is recognized as a natural monument and a significant viewpoint, drawing adventurers to its rugged slopes.
Hikers consistently praise the incredible vistas from the top, describing expansive views of the…
Routes leading to this Highlight may be dangerous
Routes may comprise technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
July 29, 2020
Hiking
•February 7, 2018
Mountaineering
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Greifenberg Summit
4.8
(35)
415
hikers
21.4km
10:07
1,490m
1,490m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(2)
23
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.5
(4)
41
hikers
10.00km
05:34
880m
880m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 2,670 m
Weather
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Tuesday 17 March
4°C
-5°C
62 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical duration for a hike to Greifenberg Summit?
The duration of a hike to Greifenberg Summit can vary significantly based on your starting point, chosen route, and fitness level. As it's often part of a multi-day traverse, such as from the Preintaler Hütte to the Golling Hütte, the summit itself might be a strenuous day's objective within a longer trip. Hikers should plan for a full day for the ascent and descent from a nearby hut, considering the challenging terrain and significant elevation gain.
Are there any family-friendly or beginner-friendly trails to Greifenberg Summit?
Greifenberg Summit is generally considered a challenging alpine trek, not typically recommended for beginners or young children. The trails involve very steep sections, both ascending and descending, and the final climb to the summit is rope-secured and can be exposed. While some experienced families might tackle it, it's crucial to have appropriate gear and experience with high-alpine environments. For easier options, consider trails in the broader Schladminger Tauern region that do not involve summiting Greifenberg.
Is Greifenberg Summit suitable for dogs?
Due to the challenging nature of the terrain, including very steep sections, exposed areas, and a rope-secured final climb, Greifenberg Summit is generally not suitable for dogs. The conditions can be difficult and potentially dangerous for pets, especially on the more technical parts of the ascent and descent. It's best to leave your canine companions at home for this particular high-alpine adventure.
What are the specific challenges of the Greifenberg Summit terrain and difficulty?
The Greifenberg Summit presents significant challenges. Hikers should expect a demanding alpine trek with very steep ascents and descents. The ascent from the Klafferkesseln, for instance, becomes increasingly steep. The final climb to the summit is rope-secured and can be exposed, requiring careful footing and potentially via ferrata equipment. Even in summer, snow fields can persist, adding to the difficulty. The descent towards the Gollinghütte also features steep sections and secured spots with steel cables.
What kind of landmarks or natural features can be seen from Greifenberg Summit?
From Greifenberg Summit, hikers are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Schladminger Tauern mountain range. A standout feature is the deep and impressive Klafferkessel, a glacial cirque known for its numerous mountain lakes. The expansive vistas offer a dramatic backdrop to the challenging climb, showcasing the rugged alpine landscape.
Are there any alternative trails or circular walks around Greifenberg Summit?
While the summit itself is often part of a linear traverse, the Greifenberg is a key point on longer alpine adventures. Many hikers incorporate it into a multi-day route, such as the traverse from the Preintaler Hütte to the Golling Hütte. Within the broader Schladminger Tauern region, there are numerous other trails and circular walks that offer varying levels of difficulty and stunning scenery, allowing hikers to explore the area without necessarily summiting Greifenberg.
What are the best seasonal considerations for hiking Greifenberg Summit, beyond the warmer months?
While the warmer months (late spring to early autumn) are generally recommended, hikers should be aware that snow fields can persist even in summer. For those considering shoulder seasons, conditions can be highly variable, with increased risk of snow, ice, and rapidly changing weather. Winter hiking to Greifenberg Summit is an extreme undertaking, suitable only for highly experienced mountaineers with full winter equipment, avalanche awareness, and proper training, due to deep snow, ice, and severe weather conditions.
What are the parking and public transport options for accessing Greifenberg Summit?
Specific parking information directly at the base of Greifenberg Summit is not readily available, as it's typically accessed as part of a longer hike from mountain huts or trailheads in the Schladminger Tauern. Hikers usually drive to a valley parking area (e.g., near Schladming or Rohrmoos) and then use public transport or hike to reach the starting points of routes leading to huts like Preintaler Hütte or Golling Hütte. It's advisable to research access points and parking for the specific hut or trailhead you plan to use as your starting point.
Are there any pubs, cafes, or accommodation options near Greifenberg Summit?
Directly at Greifenberg Summit, there are no pubs, cafes, or accommodation. However, the summit is often approached from or leads to mountain huts (Hütten) in the Schladminger Tauern, such as the Preintaler Hütte or the Golling Hütte. These huts offer basic accommodation, meals, and refreshments during the hiking season. In the valleys below, towns like Schladming and Rohrmoos provide a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, and cafes.
What wildlife might I spot around Greifenberg Summit?
The high-alpine environment around Greifenberg Summit is home to various resilient wildlife species. Hikers might spot chamois or ibex on the rocky slopes. Birdwatchers could look out for alpine choughs, golden eagles, or other birds of prey soaring above. While less common, marmots are also present in the higher elevations. Remember to observe wildlife from a distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitat.