Kalser Bärenkogel Nordwestgipfel 3.078m

The Kalser Bärenkogel separates Landecktal from Kalser Dorfertal via the Felbertauernstraße and with its 3 summits is the embodiment of a grand, indomitable leviathan cliff. The ski ascent is a weak point on the south side of the mountain. It is possible to ‘stroll’ with skis there, out of a side branch of Landecktal, up to the north-west summit. On the main peak a few metres away is an exposed bouldered ridge, which is the reserve of accomplished ski climbers. The Bärenkogel is among the dreamy spring time ski tours, the south-facing slopes promises extra special firn snow fun. Starting point is Felbertauernstraße. Small car park at the entrance to Landecktal (1380m, bus stop) after several galleries, and 5 kilometres before the Felbertauern tunnel south portal. Via a climbing forest road we now head into the valley, paying no attention to the access roads at the sides, up to the Landeckalm (1687m) inns, where the valley widens and flattens out. In a large level area (1760 m) the route branches off to t he Granatspitze and the climb to the Sonnblick and we bear sharp right (east), initially through a wide forest aisle (avalanche area) in a steep upward channel from the river beneath the distinct break-off area (west, > 30°). A striking blue ice fall breaks through this rock passage and can be seen from quite a distance. After several hairpin bends we get to the high plateau which has a small reservoir, known as ‘Beim See’ (2281 m). The continued climb stops above the water body above the dreamily beautiful glacial terrain to the north up to the summit ridge of the Bärenkogel. The north west summit is actually the end of the long, drawn-out glacial lapping plates and is to the left of the main ridge. Here is a suitable place to cross, for the most part above 2800m, to bear left to the accompanying south west ridge, where we ascend to the flat summit without much trouble. It is also possible to aim for this directly via the troughs which become steeper, between little rock face steps. Descent along the ascent track. Take care when the temperatures rise.