Wetterkreuz (03)

Avalanche Danger Scale

1 (LOW)

An 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)

An avalanche release is likely under heavy additional load especially on the indicated steep slopes. Larger avalanches are not expected. The snow cover is generally well consolidated, except on some steep slopes. Careful route selection on the indicated steep slopes and slope aspects.

3 (CONSIDERABLE)

An avalanche release is already likely under light additional load especially on the indicated steep slopes. Occasionally some medium, rarely also large avalanches are possible spontaneously. The snow cover is moderately to poorly consolidated on many steep slopes. Experience in avalanche assessment is necessary. Avoid indicated steep slopes and slope aspects as much as possible.

4 (HIGH)

An avalanche release is possible already under light additional load especially on the indicated steep slopes. Occasionally many medium, several also large avalanches occur. On many steep slopes, the snow cover is poorly consolidated. Route selection should be restricted to moderately steep terrain and take avalanche runout zones into account. Much experience in avalanche assessment is needed.

5 (VERY HIGH)

Numerous large avalanches are expected spontaneously, even in moderately steep terrain. At this warning level, a safe operation in ski areas is no longer possible. The snow cover is generally poorly consolidated and unstable. Avoid routes.

See also at lawine.tirol.gv.at

Ski Route Rules

• Observe applicable regulations during all outdoor activities and route selection (e.g., wildlife protection areas, hunting closures, reforestation areas, information boards, etc.)
• Respect quiet zones for wildlife and avoid feeding grounds and loud noise
• Cross forest areas in winter only on approved paths and routes, animals react very panicked to unlocalized noise.
• Recognize the habitats of wild animals, avoid animals if possible. Observe wildlife only from a distance. Dogs brought along must be kept on a leash; it is absolutely irresponsible to let dogs run freely in the forest during the winter emergency period.
• Proper time planning: start early enough and return before dusk. In spring, you should be back at the hut by noon (avalanche danger)
• Never drive 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 rope and in a group.

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

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

Kompass #043 | Ötztal Alps Ötztal, Pitztal | 1:50,000

The Wetterkreuzkogel 2591m is the most popular ski route in the Wörgetal. From the Kühtai state road in the valley, it initially goes easily through sparse forest up to the Upper Issalm. From here, there are two possible ascent variants that lead us to the final slope up to the summit. The ascent described here follows the orographically left side of the Wörgetalbach from the Lower to the Upper Bödens. A short steep section must be overcome here, which can however be relatively well bypassed. From the Upper Bödens, it finally goes up to the summit in beautiful, spacious, and above all not too steep terrain. At the end of this long west-facing slope, the terrain steepens partly over 30°. Especially after heavy new snowfalls with westerly wind, large snow masses can easily accumulate here and form dangerous snow slabs. The descent follows the ascent track down to the Upper Issalm. With safe avalanche and good snow conditions, it is worth crossing here to the north side of the Schafzöllen 2399m, as you find forest-free (avalanche slope!) areas here, providing a nicer descent option to the valley than in the narrow forest terrain along the ascent track.