Via ferrata Drusenfluh

Description

Originally established as an emergency descent for rescue operations, the via ferrata now presents itself as a long and scenically impressive alpine climbing route to one of the highest peaks of the Rätikon. Through the Blodig gully on the north side of the Drusenfluh, you have two via ferrata variants with different levels of difficulty to choose from. The wire cable sections are repeatedly interrupted by walking sections, making the route very varied and exciting.

Ascent: From the Lindauer Hut, you climb the hiking path towards Öfapass. At about 2,080 meters elevation (signpost), the access path to the start at the foot of the impressive gorge branches off to the left.

Descent: The descent is again via the via ferrata back and on the same path back to the Lindauer Hut.

Approach

Take the A14 to the Bludenz/Montafon exit, then follow Montafonerstraße L188 to Tschagguns and continue to the hiking parking lot in Latschau.

Public transport

Just leave your car standing

The regional buses run throughout Montafon. The main lines run every half hour from Schruns station.

Bus stop at the start/finish of the route: Latschau Golmerbahn/ Line 601 (walk to/from Lindauer Hut)

Timetable: www.vmobil.at

Arrival by train to Montafon

From Bludenz station, the Montafonerbahn runs hourly (partly half-hourly). There are also direct connections from Lindau (D) and from Bregenz.

Timetable: www.oebb.at

Parking

Hiking parking lot Latschau (paid)

Directions

In the lower part, there is a difficult entry variant (D). Just below the summit, about 40 m must be climbed at difficulty grade II without a steel cable. Climbing in an impressive alpine environment. The ascent takes place mostly on solid and rough Rätikon limestone. You can find details on the topo.

The descent is again via the via ferrata back and returns on the same path to the Lindauer Hut.

Safety instructions

EMERGENCY CALL: 144
European emergency call: 112 (works with any mobile phone/network)
www.vorarlberg.travel/sicherheitstipps

Equipment

Complete climbing equipment (harness including via ferrata set, helmet, and gloves) as well as proper footwear (sturdy ankle-high mountain boots with a good profile) are absolutely necessary.

You should also always carry a backpack with provisions, sun or rain protection, and a first aid kit.

Via ferrata sets rental

Tips

The route is very tricky in snowy conditions and old snow remnants. As long as old snow lies on the rock ledges and slabs of the north face above the Blodig gully, the easier right variant is absolutely discouraged.

Generally applies: a route for via ferrata climbers with alpine experience!

Destination

Tschagguns, Lindauer Hut

Starting Point

Tschagguns, Lindauer Hut