Overview
Grade: 4
Total time: 6 hrs
Climbing time: 3 hrs
Approach time: 2 hrs
Exit time: 2 hrs
Show topo 
Length: 530m
Rope Length: 50m
Quickdraws: 8
The Gamsgartlgrat on Schneeberg is a classic and highly rewarding alpine rock climb, graded UIAA IV (or Austrian IV). It offers a significant step up from easier scrambling and demands solid climbing technique, comfort with exposure, and good physical fitness. Primarily a ridge climb, it features continuous and engaging climbing over generally good rock, though some sections can be looser. The route encompasses a mix of slabs, cracks, and exposed traverses, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the Schneeberg massif, Rax, and surrounding Alps, especially from its exposed upper sections. It's a full-day undertaking, including the approach and descent, with the climbing itself taking several hours depending on group speed and conditions. The descent typically involves a traverse towards the Waxriegelsteig or other paths leading back to the valley or huts. This climb is not for beginners; climbers should be proficient in multi-pitch climbing, experienced with exposure, and ideally have some prior alpine climbing background. The best time to attempt it is from late spring to early autumn, when the route is free of snow. Overall, it's a memorable alpine adventure that truly feels like a 'proper' climb relatively close to Vienna.
