Südwandsteig – Wetterstein Traverse

The Südwandsteig is one of the most impressive and varied tours in the entire Gaistal – for sure-footed walkers who want to experience the Wettersteingebirge at its wildest. Covering 17.6 km with 910 metres of elevation, the circular tour first heads upward through familiar Gaistal alpine terrain, then follows the spectacular Südwandsteig along the imposing south face of the Wettersteingebirge, and finally returns to the valley. A day that stays with you.

What Makes the Südwandsteig Special?

The Südwandsteig runs along a high-level path on the south face of the Wettersteingebirge – along a rocky ridge that offers an unobstructed view of the Inn valley to the south while simultaneously looking directly into the rugged rock formations of the Wetterstein. This contrast – on one hand the breadth of the Inn valley and the Tyrolean Alps, on the other the immediate proximity of the Wetterstein wall – is the hallmark of this tour.

The terrain is not technically difficult, but it is exposed and demanding. Sure-footedness is essential.

Route Description

Start at Salzbach car park (P5): From the uppermost car park, first follow the familiar Ganghoferweg into the valley and then ascend on the Rigeleweg to the Hämmermoosalm (approx. 45 min.). The Hämmermoosalm is the first and last comfortable refreshment stop before the demanding section of the tour.

Hämmermoosalm to Rotmoosalm (approx. 1 hr.): Continue from the Hämmermoosalm along the high-level path towards the Rotmoosalm (1,580 m). The terrain is open alpine pasture with fine panoramic views of the Zugspitze. The Rotmoosalm lies somewhat off the main track and offers a quiet rest.

Rotmoosalm to Schönberggrat (approx. 1.5 hrs.): From the Rotmoosalm the more demanding section begins. The path climbs to the Schönberggrat – a rocky ridge that marks the transition between alpine pasture and the actual Südwandsteig. From here the view is complete for the first time: the Wetterstein wall at your back, the Inn valley spread out before you.

Südwandsteig traverse (approx. 2 hrs.): This is the heart of the tour. The Südwandsteig follows an exposed path along the south face of the Wettersteingebirge. The terrain is rocky and partly exposed – not a via ferrata, but not a casual walk either. Those without a good head for heights should not attempt this tour. In return, the panoramic views on this section are simply extraordinary: the Inn valley lies far below, the Wetterstein massifs surround you on three sides.

Descent to the valley (approx. 1.5 hrs.): After the traverse, the path leads back down into the Gaistal. The descent is long but well marked. The circuit ends at the Salzbach car park.

Requirements and Safety

• Sure-footedness: An absolute prerequisite – the Südwandsteig has exposed sections without fixed protection
• Head for heights: Also necessary; steep rocky passages with significant drop-offs below
• No dogs: The exposed terrain is dangerous for dogs
• Dry conditions only: Wet rock on the Südwandsteig is extremely slippery and hazardous
• Early start: Aim to be at the car park before 7 a.m. – 6.5 hours of walking plus breaks makes for a long day

Equipment

• Mountain boots (not trail shoes) – sole grip and ankle support are important
• Poles strongly recommended
• Waterproof jacket and warm layer (even in summer)
• 2.5+ litres of water (no water source on the Südwandsteig)
• Map or GPS track (route-finding in the upper section is important)

Refreshment Stops

Tips for the Tour

• Weather check: Do not attempt this tour in unsettled weather – the Südwandsteig is extremely dangerous in a thunderstorm
• Navigation: Download a GPS track before the tour; waymarking in the upper section can be sparse
• Retreat option: If the weather looks poor from the Hämmermoosalm – turn back and plan for another day
• Company: Do not do this tour alone – go with at least one other person

The Südwandsteig is, for experienced walkers, one of the most impressive tours in the Zugspitze region.