Taufkarkogel

Avalanche Danger Scale

1 (LOW)

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

2 (MODERATE)

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

3 (CONSIDERABLE)

An avalanche release is already likely with a small additional load, especially on the specified steep slopes. Occasional spontaneous medium-sized, occasionally also large avalanches are possible. The snowpack on many steep slopes is only moderately to weakly consolidated. Experience in avalanche assessment is necessary. Avoid specified steep slopes and slope aspects as much as possible.

4 (HIGH)

An avalanche release is already possible with a small additional load, especially on the specified steep slopes. Numerous medium and repeatedly large avalanches occur sporadically. On many steep slopes, the snowpack is only weakly consolidated. Route choice should be limited 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 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 touring.

See also under lawine.tirol.gv.at

Ascent aid: Wildspitze double chairlift

Ski Touring Rules

• Observe all regulations in nature and when selecting routes (e.g., wildlife protection areas, hunting closures, reforestation areas, information boards, etc.)
• Respect quiet zones for wildlife and avoid feeding areas and loud noise
• Cross forest areas in winter only on designated paths and routes whenever possible, animals react very panic-stricken to unidentifiable noise.
• Recognize wildlife habitats, avoid animals whenever possible. Observe wildlife only from a distance. Dogs must always be kept on a leash, it is absolutely irresponsible to let dogs roam freely in the forest during the critical winter period.
• Proper time planning: Start early enough and return before nightfall. In spring, you should be back at the hut by midday (avalanche danger)
• Never ski through reforestation and young growth areas.

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

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

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

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

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

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

From Vent via the ski slope to the Stablein mountain station (lift support possible). After 250 meters altitude gain, cross northwards and climb steeply to the Weißbach. From the Taufkar, continue without difficulty to the Taufkarferner. Steep uphill to the Taufkarjoch (3,218 m). A change to the Mittelbergferner, which is crossed to the west below the Taufkarkogel. Across the flat glacier, head to the Rofenkarjoch (3,320 m), from where you can easily reach the summit via the northwestern ridge.