General description
A certain measure of sure-footedness and a good head for heights is needed for this Alpine tour. Below the ridge, there are a few uncomfortable passages on the craggy trail. Between the ridge and the peak, the terrain is steep and somewhat exposed. However, the well-trodden trail is well constructed everywhere where possible. The return trail between the ridge and the peak is on the Sarntal valley side. From the peak, magnificent panoramic views can be enjoyed.
Route description
On the high plateau from the Klammeben cableway mountain station as far as the Tallner Alm mountain pasture to the northeast, lies a wide basin surrounded by scenic mountain meadows (#40A).
At the Tallner Alm refuge, turn right (eastwards) and follow the Gebirgsjägersteig trail (E5). Initially this passes through a grassy basin and then on a steep gradient across a scree and some rocky outcrops to the Obere Scharte (E5) at the bottom of the ridge.
From the side of the ridge facing the Sarntal Valley, turn left (northeast) descending down rocks and scree from the summit. Then exit the E5 and bend left taking a wide arc across several hairpin bends up to the top of the Hirzer mountain (#7).
From there, return via #7 to the Obere Scharte on the ridge. Then follow the Gebirgsjägersteig trail (E5) downhill on a steep gradient over scree and rocky outcrops to the Tallner Alm refuge (E5). From there, continue along #40a to reach the Klammeben upper cableway station.
Source: "Wanderführer Passeiertal " - Heinz Widmann
Description to arrive at destination
From Meran/Merano to the Passeiertal Valley in direction of Timmelsjoch Mountain Pass/Jaufenpass Mountain Pass until Saltaus/Saltusio.
Parking
Parking is available in the large car park of the Hirzer cable car.
Public transport
All year round, Saltaus can be reached from Merano or from St. Leonhard in Passeier with bus line 240 every half hour.
Safety instructions
A certain degree of freedom from vertigo and surefootedness are required for this mountain tour. Below the ridge there are some unpleasant passages on the rocky path. Between the ridge and the summit, the terrain is steep and somewhat exposed. However, the much-travelled path is quite well maintained wherever this is somehow possible. The path between the ridge and the summit is on the Sarntal side. From the summit you can enjoy a wonderful panoramic view. The summit area is quite narrow and somewhat exposed.
Equipment
Good hiking boots, hiking clothes and rain gear are recommended.