The Kaltwasserkarspitze rises to 2,733 m, making it the fourth-highest peak in the Karwendel range and a striking neighbour to the famous Birkkarspitze. This is a summit for seasoned mountaineers seeking a rugged, remote corner of the Austrian Alps away from the crowds.

Its craggy summit drops in a dramatic rock face toward the Kleiner Ahornboden valley, creating a bold contrast between sheer cliffs and the green basin far below. A long arête runs south from the peak, featuring the jagged Sägezähne ('saw teeth') and the Großer Heißenkopf, and separating the Östliche Birkkar from the Raukarl. In summer the terrain is starkly beautiful, with far-reaching views across the Karwendel massif, while in colder months the routes demand genuine alpine skill.

How to reach the summit

• From the Hinterau valley via the south arête, crossing the Großer Heißenkopf and the Sägezähne — demanding, UIAA grade II climbing
• From the Hinterau valley through the Birkkarklamm gorge and the Östliche Birkkar — demanding
• From the Karwendelhaus hut via the Hochjöchl saddle (2,413 m) — demanding
• From Kleiner Ahornboden via the Sauissköpfl, Western Moserkarscharte col and the Raukarl to the south arête — demanding

Practical information

• Every route to the summit includes sections of UIAA grade II climbing, so scrambling experience and a head for exposure are essential
• The Karwendelhaus hut serves as the nearest base for the ascent

The mountain was first climbed in 1870 by Hermann von Barth, the legendary solo explorer who pioneered many first ascents throughout the Karwendel without a guide.