Fluchtkogel

Avalanche hazard scale

1 (LOW) Avalanche release is only possible under heavy additional load on very few, extreme steep slopes. Spontaneous avalanches (so-called slides) are not expected. Generally safe conditions.

2 (MODERATE) Avalanche release is likely under heavy additional load especially on the specified steep slopes. Larger avalanches are not expected. The snow cover is generally well consolidated except for some steep slopes. Careful route selection at the specified steep slopes and exposures.

3 (CONSIDERABLE) Avalanche release is already likely under slight additional load especially on the specified steep slopes. Occasionally some medium-sized, and occasionally large avalanches may occur spontaneously. The snow cover is moderately to weakly consolidated on many steep slopes. Experience in avalanche assessment is necessary. Avoid specified steep slopes and exposures if possible.

4 (HIGH) Avalanche release is already possible under slight additional load especially on the specified steep slopes. Occasionally many medium and also large avalanches occur. On many steep slopes the snow cover is weakly consolidated. Route choice should be restricted to moderately steep terrain and avalanche run-out areas must be observed. Extensive experience in avalanche assessment is necessary.

5 (VERY HIGH) Numerous large avalanches, even in moderately steep terrain, are expected spontaneously. At this warning level, safe operation is no longer possible in ski areas. The snow cover is generally weakly consolidated and unstable. Avoid routes altogether.

See also at lawine.tirol.gv.at

Ski Touring Rules

Observe the applicable regulations during all activities in nature and when choosing routes (e.g. wildlife protection areas, hunting closure zones, reforestation areas, information boards, etc.)

Respect quiet zones for wildlife and avoid feeding areas as well as loud noise

Travel through forested areas in winter preferably only on authorized paths and routes; animals react very panicked to unlocatable noise.

Recognize the habitats of wild animals, avoid them if possible. Observe wildlife only from a distance. Dogs carried along must be kept on a leash at all times; it is absolutely irresponsible to let dogs roam freely in the forest during the winter emergency period.

Proper time planning: start early enough and return before dark. In spring you should be back on the hut by noon (avalanche danger).

Never go through reforestation and young growth areas.

Ötztal Tourism assumes no liability for the listed routes and recommends taking along a mountain guide.

Before starting a route, inform someone in the valley of your destination and expected return time. Carrying an avalanche transceiver is strongly recommended.

Kompass #042 | Inner Ötztal and Pitztal, Gurgler Valley, Venter Valley | 1:25,000

Kompass #43 | Ötztal Alps, Ötztal, Pitztal | 1:50,000

Freytag&Bernd WK 251 | Ötztal, Pitztal, Kaunertal, Wildspitze | 1:25,000

From the Vernagthütte - closed in winter 24/25, no winter room either - on a path over the moraine to the Guslarferner, which you enter shortly before the rain gauge. Over the crevassed Guslarferner up to the Upper Guslarjoch (3,361 m). From here steeply over the firn slope (sometimes iced). Finally flattening out again to the summit.