Hinterer Maurerkeeskopf (3311 m) is a demanding yet rewarding peak on the main Tauern ridge in the Venediger Group. It straddles the border between Tyrol and Salzburg, making the summit a genuine crossing point between two Austrian federal states.

The mountain sits amid classic high-alpine glacial scenery — the Maurerkees glacier stretches below to the south, while the Krimmlertörlkees and Obersulzbachkees glaciers lie to the north. From the top, views open onto neighboring three-thousanders such as Mittlerer Maurerkeeskopf, Hahenkamm and Kleiner Maurerkeeskopf, the latter separated by the Maurertörl saddle. This is terrain for experienced mountaineers who appreciate remote, rugged alpine landscapes and the quiet solitude of a border ridge.

How to reach the summit

• Essener-Rostocker Hütte — marked trail along the Maurerbach stream toward Maurertörl, then past the glacier tongue of Maurerkees to the southeast spur and across the glaciated south flank (grade II) — a demanding route requiring glacier experience
• Alternative routes: from Essener-Rostocker Hütte via the southeast spur, from Maurertörl via the east ridge, or from the north via the northwest ridge (grade III+) starting at Gamsspitzsattel

Practical information

• Glacier equipment (ice axe, crampons, possibly a rope) is required due to the crossing of the Maurerkees glacier
• Essener-Rostocker Hütte serves as the main base for the ascent
• Routes range in difficulty from grade II to III+ (UIAA)

The peak was originally called Heiligengeistkeeskopf and received its current name from Franz Keil. It was first climbed on 20 July 1881 by Ludwig Purtscheller together with J. Grill senior, via the east ridge.