Similaun Ski Tour

Avalanche Danger Scale

1 (LOW)

An avalanche release is only possible with great additional load on very few, extreme steep slopes. Spontaneous avalanches (so-called slides) are not expected. Generally safe conditions.

2 (MODERATE)

An avalanche release is likely with great additional load especially on the specified steep slopes. Larger avalanches are not expected. The snowpack is generally well consolidated, except on some steep slopes. Careful route selection on the specified steep slopes and slope aspects.

3 (CONSIDERABLE)

An avalanche release is already likely with slight additional load especially on the specified steep slopes. Occasionally, some medium, occasionally also large avalanches are possible spontaneously. The snowpack on many steep slopes is only moderately to weakly consolidated. Experience in avalanche assessment necessary. Try to avoid the specified steep slopes and slope aspects.

4 (HIGH)

An avalanche release is already possible with slight additional load especially on the specified steep slopes. Occasionally, many medium, repeatedly also large avalanches occur. The snowpack on many steep slopes is only weakly consolidated. Route selection should be limited to moderately steep terrain and avalanche runout zones must be observed. Much experience in avalanche assessment is necessary.

5 (VERY HIGH)

Numerous large avalanches are expected spontaneously, even in moderately steep terrain. At this warning level, safe operation in ski areas is no longer possible. The snowpack is generally weakly consolidated and unstable. Avoid tours.

See also at lawine.tirol.gv.at

Ski Tour Rules

• Observe the regulations in effect for all activities in nature and for route selection (e.g., wildlife protection areas, hunting restricted zones, reforestation areas, information boards, etc.)
• Respect quiet zones for wildlife and avoid feeding areas as well as loud noises
• Cross forest areas in winter only on authorized paths and routes whenever possible, as animals react very panicky to unlocalized noise.
• Recognize the habitats of wildlife and avoid the animals as much as possible. Observe wildlife only from a distance. Dogs brought along must be kept on a leash at all times; it is absolutely irresponsible to let dogs run free in the forest during the winter emergency period.
• Proper time planning: Start early enough and return before darkness. In spring, you should be back at the hut by noon (avalanche danger)
• Never ride through reforestation and young growth areas. 

Ötztal Tourism assumes no liability for the listed routes and recommends carrying a mountain guide. Glacier crossings are only possible with a rope and in a group.

Before starting a tour, inform the valley about your destination and expected return time. Carrying an avalanche transceiver is strongly recommended.

More information about ski touring in the Ötztal: https://www.oetztal.com/skitouren

From Vent to the Similaun Hut (3,019 m)

Ascent through the Niedertal –> Martin-Busch Hut (2,501 m, 3 h) –> Similaun Hut (3,019 m, 2 h)

After the Martin-Busch Hut, follow the signs towards Similaun. Keep slightly to the right, but do not take the direct path to the Similaun Hut. Ascent to the glacier and to the Similaun.