Alpine Route

A high altitude route usually leads through the nival zone (snow or ice-covered all year round). This means that the route usually runs above 3,000 to 7,000 metres above sea level, is often pathless and therefore requires special equipment such as crampons, ice axes and safety equipment. Unsecured climbing passages on rock and ice are possible.

Due to the altitude and the length of the ascent, high altitude routes usually last longer than one day – nights are usually spent in huts. There are also many alpine dangers, which is why this type of mountaineering is reserved for experienced alpinists. However, there are also easier high-altitude routes that are also possible for less experienced climbers if accompanied by a mountain guide.

In addition to guided alpine routes, special alpine touring courses are also offered. There you will learn how to walk on ice/snow with crampons, crevasse rescue techniques, first aid methods and orientation on glaciers.

Relay teams are formed to face the dangers of the ascent together in a group. In addition to the physical dangers of the mountain, there are other risks that high alpinists have to face. The dry air at high altitudes leads to oxygen deficiency and can cause severe skin diseases, which is why alpinists have to undergo long periods of acclimatisation beforehand.

High altitude routes are strenuous, athletically demanding undertakings. Knowledge and experience of ice and snow conditions, weather conditions and the mountains are just as essential as surefootedness, a head for heights and experience in climbing on rock and ice.

Classic northwestern slopes, which are usually still completely covered by glaciers, also count as active high-altitude routes. Depending on the conditions, these routes can be done entirely in firn (rather in winter and early summer) or in winters with little snow or in summer they are completely covered with ice, so that every pitch has to be climbed in the ice. Depending on the route and difficulty, good firn or ice is better. For such high-altitude routes, you can assign the tag „ice route“ when creating the route.

Basically, in classic north-west terrain, one moves in extremely steep and high alpine terrain (over 45 degrees slope). In addition to an exceptionally good physical condition, you also need intuitive and absolutely safe handling of the equipment needed in this terrain (ice tools, ice screws, crampons). Solid knowledge of avalanche awareness rounds off the requirements profile of a touring aspirant.

With the features of Outdooractive you can easily plan, track and navigate your alpine routes . Information on terrain, trail conditions and metres of altitude – with the interactive map from Outdooractive you get all the information you need for your outdoor adventure. With the BuddyBeacon, your location is shared in real time with family or friends. They can track where you are at any time. Outdooractive helps you arrive safely at your destination and makes your high-altitude routes a very special experience.