OverviewA high but gentle peak, a major summit on the divide between the Fotschtal and Lüsental valleys. The climb is popular in summer and winter, when it's a long but easy ski tour. The summit offers commanding views of the Stubai Mountains, as well as along the Inntal and mountains to the north.
Many like to hike the peak in two days, hiking up from Sellrain along the Fotschtal, and continuing to the summit after a night at the Potsdamer Hütte.
As a ski tour, the way up through the Fotschtal is relatively safe from avalanche danger. The steepest slope on the tour is just below the Potsdamer Hütte, and must be crossed. In general, it is a good tour for beginners who don't mind a long climb up, because of the low angle.
Getting ThereThe peak is commonly ascended from two directions:
From Fotschtal: Drive about 6 kilometers up the Sellrain valley from the Inn valley and follow a sign pointing left to Fotschtal/Potsdamer Hütte. The sign is in the middle of the town of Sellrain. In winter the usual parking place is a kilometer up the road at a switchback with room for two dozen cars. Follow the valley several kilometers to the Fotscher Hütte, then further to the gorgeous upper valley, and a turn off right to climb to the Potsdamer Hütte. A marked trail (36,119) leads up generally west to enter the broad high valley of Widdersberg Schafalm. The summit lies at it's head.
You could also skip the Potsdamer Hütte, ascending and/or descending the Allmindbach southwest from the valley floor near the Fotscher Hütte. The attached map shows this line. In our case, we found it a good ski descent.
From Praxmar: On a drive up the Sellraintal, continue to the town of Gries, then turn left up the Lüsenstal from the center of town. Look for the trail on the valley road due east of the town of Praxmar. The trail (also signed 36,119) climbs east up the Afligger Alm, then on to the summit.
To reach the Sellraintal by car, travel the Autobahn (A12) west a short distance from Innsbruck, and exit at the sign for Zirl and Kematen. Go left under the autobahn towards Kematen, and follow signs leading straight on to the mouth of the Sellrain valley.
Innsbruck is easily reached by train, and there should be a bus service from there to towns of the Sellrain in summer.Red TapeThere is none.
Camping / AccomodationCamping is not allowed, though a stealthy bivouac might be tolerated.
For accomodation, the Potsdamer Hütte is open for much of the year. You could also stay cheaply at a hostel in Innsbruck. I stayed here once and it was fine and cheap. For accomodation in the Sellrain valley, check this site.
Maps and Weather
External Links
- The Potsdamer Hütte, as a place to stay or to have lunch on the way up.
- A great panorama from the summit found here
Images
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