Climb the Stuibenfall Via Ferrata

The Stuibenfall waterfall is the highest waterfall in the Tirol state of Austria, situated in the Ötztal valley. Not only is it an incredible sight to see by itself, but if you have experience climbing via ferrata (known as klettersteig in German), you can climb up the full waterwall.

The Approach:

Park at the car park for the Ötzi Dorf and Badesee (Bischoffsplatz). Follow the footpath up past the historical Ötzi village and continue uphill on a gravel footpath. The start of the via ferrata is a river crossing, then you have to hike for a short while before the main part of the climb starts.

The full via ferrata is 450m long, with a 300m altitude difference in total. The climb is graded B/C. It's not technically very difficult but you do need a good head for heights are there are a couple of sections that are a little exposed. The final section of the climb is also not for the faint hearted, as it crosses the 159m high waterfall on a single steel cable. Of course, if you don't want to, there is an easier exit option on the left too.

If you're hungry at the top, you can follow the footpath upwards for about 10 minutes to a mountain restaurant that is open in the summertime which serves food and drinks.

To get back down to the car park, follow the path back down to the metal staircases, and the multiple viewing platforms, and back on the trail back to the car park.

Gear:

• Harness
• Via ferrata set
• Helmet
• Climbing gloves
• Backpack with water, snacks and jacket