Großer Ramolkogel is the highest summit of the Ramolkogel group in the Ötztal Alps, rising to 3549 m in Austrian Tyrol. It's a rewarding objective for experienced mountaineers seeking glacier scenery and far-reaching alpine views.

The peak is surrounded by glaciers on its northern and eastern flanks - the Latschferner has its accumulation zone on the north face, while the Ramolferner forms below the Anichspitze and the Mittlerer Ramolkogel. Steep scree slopes drop away to the southwest and west into the Venter Tal. The mountain shows striking topographic prominence, especially toward Obergurgl to the northeast, making for dramatic views. In summer the route demands proper high-altitude gear and glacier experience, while snow and ice conditions dominate for much of the year.

How to reach the summit

• Ramolhaus (3005 m) - high-altitude tour via the northeast ridge to the Mittlerer Ramolkogel, then west along the east ridge, 4-5 hours, demanding, UIAA I-II scrambling/climbing
• Historic southwest route - the original 1862 ascent line, an alternative approach

Practical information

• Glacier travel gear required (crampons, ice axe, rope recommended)
• A rockfall between the Mittlerer Ramolkogel and the main summit has made the standard route more difficult to negotiate
• Base hut: Ramolhaus at 3005 m

The Großer Ramolkogel was first climbed on 18 July 1862 by the Swiss alpinist Johann Jakob Weilenmann of St. Gallen, entirely solo and without a guide.