Overview
Grade: B/C
Total time: 25 mins
Climbing time: 15 mins
Approach time: 5 mins
Exit time: 5 mins
The Diego Klettersteig is a short training via ferrata located near Gallneukirchen in Upper Austria, approximately 20 kilometers northeast of Linz. Situated in the Klettergarten Steinbach climbing area, this route is well-suited for beginners looking to familiarize themselves with via ferrata climbing.
Route Description:
The via ferrata is divided into two main sections:
Lower Section: This initial part involves an ascent of about 5 meters with a difficulty level around B.
Upper Section: Here, climbers can choose among three variants:
Left Variant: Difficulty B/C
Middle Variant: Difficulty C
Right Variant: Difficulty C
The total climbing height is approximately 20 meters, with an overall elevation gain of about 40 meters. The route is well-secured with steel cables and a few iron rungs, ensuring safety for climbers. The entire experience, including approach and descent, typically takes around 30 minutes.
Access and Approach:
By Car: From the A7 motorway, take the Gallneukirchen exit. Proceed through Gallneukirchen towards Reichenau. After approximately 4.8 kilometers, turn left towards Steinbach. Continue for about 1 kilometer until you find parking options on both sides of the road near a wooden storage area.
Public Transport: Take a bus to the "Großes Gusental Bruckmühle" stop. From there, walk 1.2 kilometers towards Gallneukirchen and take the turn towards Steinbach. After about 1 kilometer, you'll reach the climbing area on the right side of the road.
From the parking area, a short 5-minute walk leads directly to the rock face where the via ferrata begins.
Equipment:
Standard via ferrata equipment is essential, including a helmet, harness, and a via ferrata lanyard with an energy absorber. Given the route's exposure and potential for slippery conditions, especially after rain, appropriate footwear with good grip is recommended.
Additional Information:
The Diego Klettersteig is maintained by the Naturfreunde Holzwiesen-Gallneukirchen. While the route is relatively short, it offers a valuable opportunity for beginners to practice via ferrata techniques in a controlled environment. However, climbers should be cautious during wet conditions, as the rocks can become slippery, increasing the risk of falls.
For those interested in traditional climbing, the Klettergarten Steinbach area also features several short but well-protected climbing routes.