Lüsener Fernerkogel (3298m) - North Ridge

Technical difficulty: 9/10 (up to 3 UIAA, glacier descent)
Fitness: 7/10
Objective danger: 7/10
Landscape: 10/10
Busy: 1/10

Very technical high alpine loop to an amazing peak in the heart of Sellrain - Lüsener Fernerkogel.

Starting point: Lüsens
Ending point: Lüsens
Length: 15km
Vertical: 1700m
Speed: involves 1000+ vertical meters of scrambling and descent on the glacier. Count with walking most of the time.

Route:

This route offers a mix of picturesque valley views, challenging terrain, and the thrill of an alpine adventure.

Begin your journey at the Lüsens parking lot. From here, set off through the valley, heading towards the Westfalenhaus mountain hut. As you approach the pass, the North ridge of Lüsener Fernerkogel grows larger and larger on your left hand side. This clearly visible ridge will be your next destination. Leave the main trail at this point and head towards the ridge. Although the trails here are faint, they are discernible enough to guide you in the right direction.

After ascending 200-300 vertical meters, keep an eye out for a trail veering to the left and then back to the right. This trail will help you bypass a difficult rock step! Once past the rock step, it's time to navigate your way along the North ridge. This part of the route can be challenging, but with careful footing and a steady pace, you should be able to manage it. The difficulty should never exceed a grade 3 on the UIAA scale, so it feels harder, you are likely on the wrong path. Backtrack and try a different way.

Reaching the summit is a moment to savour. Take a moment to rest and enjoy the panoramic views that stretch out before you. It's a well-earned reward for your efforts.

The descent from the summit takes you down the South face of the mountain, following a trail marked with cairns. This leads you to the glacier. Please note, this part of the route should not be attempted if the glacier is snowed over. During the summer months, the crevasses are clearly visible, making it relatively safe to traverse.

Finally, you will reach a trail that takes you along a beautiful waterfall and back into the valley. This scenic path eventually leads you back to your starting point at the Lüsense parking lot.

This running route is one of the best combination of technical terrain and alpine views that you can get around Innsbruck.