King Glockner is calling: adventure tours in Kals am Großglockner!

King Glockner is calling: adventure tours in Kals am Großglockner!

Kals am Großglockner is an ideal starting point for mountain lovers who want to climb the highest peak in Austria. The majestic Großglockner, which towers over the Alps at 3,798 meters, was first climbed in 1855 and is nicknamed “King Glockner”. However, the climb requires good fitness, sure-footedness, a head for heights and some climbing experience. Experts strongly recommend taking the tour under the guidance of an experienced mountain guide in order to reach your destination safely.

The tour to climb the Großglockner lasts at least one and a half days. First, after a car or bus ride, you reach the Lucknerhaus, from where the climb to the Stüdlhütte begins at 2,802 meters. After a rest, it takes about two hours from the Stüdlhütte to the Erzherzog-Johann-Hütte. But the summit has not yet been reached - 350 meters in altitude still have to be overcome, which will take another 1 to 1.5 hours.

Safety aspects and accidents

The entire route to climb the Großglockner covers 16 kilometers and an altitude difference of 1,900 meters. This fact represents a real challenge for many hikers. What is particularly striking is that in the last 15 years, no serious accidents or falls have been recorded among Kals mountain guides. Interestingly, 95% of accidents are caused by solo climbers getting lost or slipping.

The youngest climbers were 10 years old, while the oldest climber was an impressive 85 years old. These age differences testify to the appeal of the Großglockner for different generations.

Tourism and hiking trails in Kals

Tourism in Kals has benefited in recent years through targeted investments, including in modern lifts and the Gradonna Mountain Resort. This has not only increased the region's attractiveness, but also improved the infrastructure for holidaymakers. Kals is located in the Hohe Tauern National Park, which can be easily reached by car or bus.

In addition to challenging mountain tours, there are numerous easier hiking trails in the area that are also suitable for less experienced hikers. These include the valley circular path, which is 19.5 kilometers long, and the Glocknerkrone mountain path, which stretches over 65.6 kilometers. These trails offer everyone the opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking nature and spectacular views of the Alps.

The cost of climbing the Großglockner is 430 euros per person for two people or 675 euros for individuals. These prices include both the necessary equipment and the hut costs.

For more information on hiking trails and other activities in the area, visit Osttirol.com. A complete report on the tours around Kals am Großglockner is also included Rhine Palatinate to find.