Gebhardtweg – Steingrubenkogel

It is no coincidence that the Kalkkögel, with their rugged peaks and steep faces, are somewhat reminiscent of the Dolomites. As a climbing area, however, they have become comparatively quiet these days. The Gebhardtweg on the Steingrubenkogel demonstrates quite impressively what these walls have to offer: around 500 metres of unspoilt alpine climbing in a striking, rugged mountain landscape. The difficulty remains moderate, with a maximum grade of UIAA 4+, but the route retains its original character. Only a few bolts mark the way; in between, you have to secure your own route. We work our way up the long wall over slabs, dihedrals and jagged limestone. After the exit, short abseil sections take us to the Steingrubenkogel via ferrata, which we use to descend. At the Adolf-Pichler Hut, the obligatory stop for refreshments awaits – along with a view back over 500 metres of the Kalkkögel, which now appear in a slightly different light.