Overview
Grade: A/B
Total time: 6 hrs
Climbing time: 40 mins
Approach time: 3 hrs
Exit time: 2 hrs
Length: 1,234m
Total elevation: 200m
Altitude: 1,421m
Climbing the Purtschellersteig is a delightful and accessible alpine experience, graded A/B, making it perfect for beginners, families, and those seeking stunning views without extreme technical challenge. Located in the Berchtesgaden Alps, leading up towards the historic Purtschellerhaus, this via ferrata is more of a secured mountain path than a traditional climb. The ascent primarily involves walking on well-maintained trails, interspersed with short, easy sections where a continuous steel cable provides security. You'll encounter gentle slopes, occasional small rock steps, and perhaps a few short ladders or metal rungs (staples) in steeper spots. The exposure is moderate, providing exciting glimpses into the valley below without being overly intimidating. The real reward is the breathtaking panoramic views of surrounding peaks like the Watzmann, parts of Königssee, and the wider Berchtesgaden region. It's less about strenuous climbing and more about enjoying the alpine environment with added safety. For the return, hikers typically descend the same path they ascended, or take one of the well-marked hiking trails leading down from the Purtschellerhaus. The descent is generally straightforward and relaxed, allowing you to re-savor the magnificent scenery or to simply enjoy a leisurely walk back to the starting point after a well-deserved break at the hut. It completes a rewarding, yet gentle, mountain outing.
