Via Ferrata Däumelkogel

Climbing fun for the whole family

Although the Däumelkogel via ferrata is a popular starting point for deep snow surfers in winter, in summer it is still a little-known gem for families in the Dachstein Krippenstein climbing arena.

Located slightly away from the Heilbronn circular hiking trail, the Däumelkogel via ferrata is a great mountain for scrambling and climbing for families who love sports.

The climbing route, which has a difficulty rating of B, can be climbed by families with climbing experience and children aged 10 and above with supervision, offering climbing enthusiasts of all ages a wonderful mountain experience along wire ropes and step pins.

Keyfacts via ferrata

Via ferrata Däumelkogel

  • Length = 350 m

  • Difficulty= B

  • Approach = 35 minutes form the mountain station Krippenstein

  • Climbing time = 1.5 hours

  • Latest start = 1:00 pm

  • Way back = 1 hour to the mountain station Krippenstein

  • Ideal for = Families with climbing experience, children aged 10 and above with supervision

Cable car management / emergency: +43 50 140 12180 
Mountain rescue team (Austria): 140

Family power on the rock:Via Ferrata Däumelkogel

Climbing route

Entrance area & rock zone (easy to moderate)
The entrance is relatively moderate (grade A/B), with rock slabs offering good handholds and footholds. The difficulty quickly increases on a steeper slab (B to B/C), which requires sure-footedness and some strength.

Middle section – steep passages & friction
The route continues over steeper slabs with few footholds (C), often relying on friction on the rock. In between, there are easier passages (B/C) that allow you to relax your climbing pace a little. In this section, a ‘mini dihedral’ about 1.5 m high can be a key point (≈ C) – this spot is a bit overhanging and needs a good feel for footholds and handholds.

Balancing and transition areas
The more challenging middle section is followed by a less steep section of wall (B to B/C), which leads over to grassy or scree terrain. A wide grassy ledge (grade A) offers a brief respite before another rocky ascent follows.

Final rocky section & exit
The final rocky section again involves passages rated B to B/C, after which the terrain gradually becomes easier. The via ferrata ends where mountain pines and easier terrain take over. In a few minutes, you will reach a marked hiking trail (A to A/B) in the mountain pine area.

Then continue through mountain pines and rocks to the path that leads to the Schönbergalm or the summit of the Däumelkogel.

Via ferrata equipment

Safety First: Absolutely necessary!

For the sporting challenge on the Via Ferrata Däumelkogel, the following equipment is absolutely essential:

  • climbing harness with via ferrata set

  • rockfall helmet

  • sturdy shoes

  • first aid

Safe with children on the via ferrata
⇒ Tips from Alpenverein

Wie immer gilt: Safety First!

No climbing equipment?

Would you like to experience the via ferrata but don't have your own climbing equipment?

No problem – you can hire all the climbing equipment you need from the following shops nearby:

Please don't forget!

Reserve your climbing equipment in advance at the shop and pick it up directly at the shop before visiting the mountain (via ferrata).

Tip: Shark & lake Däumelsee

Dachstein shark

Before heading back to the Krippenstein mountain station, you should take a detour to the Dachstein shark on the Heilbronn circular hiking trail.

Not only does the Dachstein Shark offer a brilliant view of the Salzkammergut, it is also a popular photo spot – for souvenir photos or selfies for your loved ones at home :-)

Lake Däumelsee

A detour to the idyllic lake Däumelsee is definitely worthwhile. The small mountain lake is nestled between rocks and mountain pines and, in calm weather, reflects the surrounding peaks. It is the perfect place to pause for a moment, enjoy the mountain tranquillity, or capture an atmospheric photo.

Builder:
Outdoor Leadership
On behalf of Dachstein Tourismus AG

Holder:
Dachstein Tourismus AG

Liability: The builder (Outdoor Leadership/Helmut Putz), the operator (Dachstein Tourismus AG) and the landowner (Österreichische Bundesforste) assume no liability for the safety and condition of the via ferrata and its use. Any ascent is voluntary and requires adequate planning, self-assessment, preparation, training and physical and mental fitness. This via ferrata is a beginner's via ferrata, but attention must still be paid to all the dangers present in the mountains.

Outdoor Leadership

Via ferrata courses & lessons

With the qualified mountain guides and pro climbers at Outdoor Leadership, you can get off to a good start in the world of climbing, or enhance your skills to take on the more tricky via ferratas.

Outdoor Leadership
Tel. +43 6135  6058
Mail: office@outdoor-leadership.com 
www.outdoor-leadership.com