Via ferrata "Heini Holzer" Ifinger - access from Merano 2000

General description

The 500 m long climb is perfectly secured with 1000 m of steel cable, is rated at medium difficulty (A - B – in some places B/C) and is suitable for the less strong alpinists or for families with enthusiastic young climbers (14 years and older). An early start, alpine experience and a good overall physical condition is a prerequisite for the ascent of the climbing route. Along the ascent, there is no water and no escape routes. A withdrawal is possible only by down-climbing. The via ferrata is fully secured with a steel cable and no passages have to be dealt with in unsecured terrain or by free climbing. Many steep and difficult sections have been mitigated with steel clamps, which function as steps. Nevertheless, the last part of the via ferrata, the so-called Angel’s edge, presents a very impressive rock passage. The orientation of the via ferrata to the southwest allows for an early ascent of the route, and the climbing season extends well into late autumn (total climbing time: 2-3 hours).

Route description

Access
The easiest route for the via ferrata starts at the mountain station of the Meran 2000 cable car. First, walk past the restaurant Piffinger Köpfl and a short distance along the wide road to a fork, where the signs point to the via ferrata. There, turn left onto the Ifinger Schartelweg (No. 18). This leads slightly downhill to the marked approach below the clearly visible roping-up point.

Ascent
From the platform, ascend a rise (B/C) to a grassy ledge (A). Go left to the next step (B/C), after a flat section you reach the steep part (B/C; "Edelweiß"). Then easier (B) over rock steps to the so-called Dolomite panorama. Steeply up grassy slopes to the beginning (B) of the "ghost ridge" (A/B and B). Pass a few small trees "Waldele" and reach (A) the Heini-Holzer rest area (bench). The path becomes easier from there with longer walking sections. Pass by the spot with the trail book and ascend to the split (B), after the edge "Engelskante" continue to the exit ridge (one B spot, otherwise easier). The end of the via ferrata is marked on a large sign at 2495 m (wide grassy ridge).

Descent
At the exit, follow the signs to the junction "Kleiner Ifinger (2552 m) and Großer Ifinger (2581 m)". Here also begins the descent to the clearly visible Kuhleitenhütte. Passing by the little Oswald Chapel, you reach a wide path that leads back to the starting point.

Description to arrive at destination

From Merano in the direction of Avelengo and on to Falzeben.

Parking

Free parking place at the valley station of the Meran 2000 funicular/Naiftal
Parking area in Falzeben

Public transport

Bus line 232 from Schenna to the valley station of the Meran 2000 cable car
City line 1 from Meran to the Meran 2000 cable car
Bus line 225 from Meran to Hafling (stop: Falzeben - Falzeben cable car variant)

You can find the schedules at www.suedtirolmobil.info or on the Schenna App!

Safety instructions

Before setting out on your day excursion, please make sure of the weather and trail conditions.

Equipment

Hiking boots, via ferrata set, drinks.