3,797 m
Elevation
2,423 m
Prominence
47.0742°, 12.6947°
Coordinates
1800 — Martin Reicher, Sepp & Martin Klotz, and party
First Ascent
About Großglockner
Austria's highest mountain, flanked by the Pasterze glacier, the longest in the Eastern Alps. A classic mountaineering objective with mixed terrain.
Climbing Großglockner: route, season and difficulty
- How long it takes
- 8–14 hours round trip, or two days using a mountain hut
- Do you need a guide?
- Not required if you are comfortable with exposed scrambling and mountain navigation, but a guide is a good call in poor visibility or early season.
- Best season
- Usually May to October (July–September for the high routes).
- Terrain & gear
- Steep trails with scrambling, loose rock or short exposed sections. Helmet, sturdy boots, wind and rain shell, headtorch, and a via-ferrata set if the route is cabled.
📝 Martin's Personal Note
Großglockner, August 2021 — climbed via the Stüdlgrat ridge, graded AD (and closer to AD+ with the fresh snow that came in). Episode 3 of the series and my first proper alpine ridge on the project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest mountain in Austria?
The highest mountain in Austria is Großglockner, at 3,797 meters above sea level.
How long does it take to climb Großglockner?
Allow 8–14 hours round trip, or two days using a mountain hut. Times vary with fitness, conditions and which trailhead you start from.
Can you climb Großglockner without a guide?
Not required if you are comfortable with exposed scrambling and mountain navigation, but a guide is a good call in poor visibility or early season.
When is the best time to climb Großglockner?
The usual season is May to October (July–September for the high routes). Outside that window expect snow, storms or closed access.
What gear do you need for Großglockner?
Helmet, sturdy boots, wind and rain shell, headtorch, and a via-ferrata set if the route is cabled.
How high is Großglockner?
Großglockner stands at 3,797 meters (12,457 feet).
Where is Großglockner located?
Großglockner is located in Austria, within the Hohe Tauern, Central Eastern Alps.
Has Martin climbed Großglockner?
Yes — Martin summited Großglockner in 2021 as part of his country highpointing project.