On the south-facing slopes across the Gschlösstal into the Venediger group there are lots of interesting ski tour destinations. The Rote Säule, set in the midst of these rugged summits, has long been known among ski touring fans, well beyond the borders of this district. The wide, open and not too steep terrain in particular, which drops by almost 3000 metres into the valley, promises pure skiing fun right through to spring. There is only one snag in terms of ski touring – you have to walk across the five kilometre valley before the route noticeable proceeds upwards.
Starting point is Matreier Tauernhaus (1500 m), two kilometres before the Felbertauern south portal. We follow the slightly ascending goods route to the Außergschlöss inns (1695 m). The view to the glaciers in the Venediger group now provide a bit of variety for the final flat kilometres into Innergschlöss, and after 1 to 1 ½ hours we get to the lovely Alpine village. 500 metres after the lodges, the track branches off to the north (route signposts) in a belt of alders. Those who come to the path can tackle it in leisurely hairpin bends. Before us the wide slopes of the Ochsen Alm spread out before us. With the sun on our backs we now follow the truncated pastureland flanks, for the most part looking for the most favourable route, until we get to a small base area at 2700 m below our tour destination. The slope now becomes steeper and via the rest of Gschlöss Kees we head for the summit ridge of the Rote Saile. Ski storage available there (4-5 hours from Tauernhaus). The route continues via the short steep rocks and is exposed, requiring surefootedness. Descent along the ascent track.
Additional ski tour tips can be obtained in the ski tour guides by Thomas Mariacher. These are available here: https://www.tyroliaverlag.at/item/Skitouren_in_Osttirol_und_Oberkaernten/Thomas_Mariacher/43058387
