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Ruderhofspitze South Face

Stubaier Gletscher

Get top to the top of this iconic peak in the Stubaier Alps!

Ski Touring Difficult

Distance
8.9 km
Ascent
1.7 km
Descent
1.7 km
Duration
6-7 hrs
Low Point
1.7 km
High Point
3.5 km
Gradient
44˚
Ruderhofspitze South Face Map

Ruderhofspitze - with its altitude of 3473 - is one of the highest summits in the whole Stubaier Alps area. While on the north side it faces the Alpeiner Ferner glacier, towards the south it faces the lower part of Stubaier Gletscher ski resort - and that’s exactly where this route starts from, at the parking lot of the ski area. Even though the whole route is south facing, be prepared with some warm clothes - especially when you are planning an early start: down in the valley the sun comes pretty late and the altitude definitely creates chilly air, while the upper section of the tour can be exposed to moderate winds.

Description

The climb is always relatively mellow, and goes through some tiny bushes at the beginning before leading to a wide open face until a more technical section where probably stepping out of the skis and climbing over a small boulder section will be required, according to the snow depth and season of the year. Even if this is not a technical skit tour, always check the avalanche report before hitting this tour - the exposure of this big face is often a critical aspect to take into account for your decision making process.

Once you've reached the top the view is breathtaking: from this high peak you have a wide overview of all the mountain chains within a really wide range - all the way down south to the Dolomites.

The descent follows exactly the same slope as the ascent and the sun rays will hit your face while you are shredding long turns from one side to the other of the face - different natural features make this ride real rollercoaster for those who want to play a bit more with their planks.

Difficulty

Difficult

Serious gradient of 30-38 degrees where a real risk of slipping exists.

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

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between December and April

Features

  • Face
  • Alpine
  • Ski Mountaineering

Equipment required

  • Skins
  • Crampons

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area