Ötscher Rauher Kamm - CANCELLED on 20 May 2017

We will convene in Wienerbruck on Saturday morning and begin by hiking on the trail through the lovely Ötschergräben.  After about 1.5 hours we will turn right onto a steep but well-maintained trail with numerous switchbacks that takes us up to the base of the Rauher Kamm, the distinctive northeastern ridge of Ötscher.  The ridge climb requires scrambling (the use of hands) in numerous places and with exposure, but is nowhere difficult (maximum Grade I+).  The views get increasingly dramatic and panoramic as we ascend the ridge and finally reach the summit plateau.  From the summit (1893 m) it is an easy 20 minutes walk down to the Oetscher Schutzhaus where we will enjoy dinner and stay overnight. On Sunday we will continue on a series of easy ridge trails to finally ascend Gemeindealpe (1626 m) where we can eat lunch before descending (hiking or Seilbahn) to the town of Mitterbach am Erlaufsee.  From Mitterbach we will take a short train ride back to Wienerbruck to retrieve autos or to continue on the train back to Vienna.

Please be advised that there is uncertainty about when the hut will reopen for the summer season, as it depends upon how long there is snow in the late spring.  If the hut is not open by 20 May, it will be necessary to cancel the trip.

We have now (8 May) reached the limit of 10 registrants.  All additional registrants will be placed on a wait list.

 

It is easiest to drive to Wienerbruck but it is also possible to travel by train from/to Vienna.  A car rental will be arranged if needed and wanted.  We will leave Vienna early on Saturday morning (about 7:00) and should arrive back in Vienna on Sunday around 20:00 if travelling by car.  More specific time and locations for meeting will be sent when we know who will be driving.