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Nockspitze West Face

Axamer Lizum

One of the most classic views over Innsbruck and a great ski descent

Ski Touring Moderate

Distance
2.6 km
Ascent
376 m
Descent
375 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
2 km
High Point
2.4 km
Gradient
38˚
Nockspitze West Face Map

The Nockspitze is one of the closest mountains to town, located to the south-west side of the city, it creates a triangle with Nordkette on the north side and Patscherkofel on the south-east, enclosing Innsbruck in the middle. This peak is really famous and climbed in every season for different kind of mountain activities: from hiking and paragliding in summer, to ski touring in winter. Its location makes it a perfect spot for admiring the sunrise over Glungezer and the sunset over Mieminger Kette, with the city always down there - that’s the reason why many outdoor lovers living in town often camp up here!

Description

The tour could either start down from the parking where the Birgitzalm route starts or - as shown in this route - take advantage of the two seater chairlift starting from Axamer Lizum parking lot and ride all the way up to the west face of Nockspitze itself: from here it will be a really fast climb to the top! From the top of the lift - where the Birgitzerköpflhaus is located - the route goes all around the southern flank of the mountain before then going up a mellow ridge that will lead you all the way up to the cross.

From the top, multiple descents are possible but the easiest one and most common is following the west face, going straight down to the hut again - where you could stop and enjoy the sun shining on the Kalkoggel rocky faces and dream about your next adventure in between those steep walls. For getting back to Axamer Lizum parking lot, just follow the slope under the chairlift from here - remember thought that it is not always groomed and it can require some pretty challenging mogul skiing!

Difficulty

Moderate

Slopes become slightly steeper at around 25-30 degrees.

Medium Exposure (E2)

2 out of 4

As well as the slope itself, there are some obstacles (such as rock outcrops) which could aggravate injury.

Remoteness

1 out of 4

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

between December and April

Features

  • Face
  • Alpine
  • Single Descent

Equipment required

  • Skins

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area