Overview
Grade: 7
Total time: 16 hrs
Climbing time: 13 hrs
Approach time: 3 hrs
Exit time: 45 mins
The 'Hochschwab Südseiten-Genussklettermarathon' on G'hackstein – even the name itself promises an epic adventure. Rated at a challenging grade 7, this route truly lives up to its 'pleasure-climbing marathon' moniker. We started early, hiking through the serene Hochschwab landscape towards the imposing G'hackstein south face. Pitch after pitch, the climbing unfolded with incredible variety: demanding slabs, intricate cracks, and exposed steep sections, all on surprisingly solid, grippy limestone. The exposure was exhilarating, and with every meter gained, the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains became more breathtaking. While certain cruxes demanded full focus, precise footwork, and strong pulls, the overall flow was sensational – a genuine vertical dance. Reaching the top, tired arms were forgotten in the immense sense of accomplishment and the sheer beauty of the high alpine surroundings. The descent was an adventure in itself, a long, careful traverse and scramble back down to the valley, concluding a truly memorable day on one of Hochschwab's classic long routes. We returned to the car weary but utterly content, having experienced a true 'Genussklettermarathon' in every sense of the word.
