The Krottenkopf, often called Großer Krottenkopf, is the highest peak of the Allgäu Alps, straddling the border between Austria and Germany at 2656 m. It's a rewarding summit goal for hikers who want to stand atop this entire mountain range.

The peak forms part of a side ridge of the Hornbachkette, stretching east from the main Allgäu ridge. The approach winds through scenic valleys, scree slopes and rocky slabs, rewarding climbers with sweeping views across the surrounding ranges. In summer the trails see steady foot traffic, while spring and autumn bring snow-filled gullies that make the ascent noticeably tougher.

How to reach the summit

• Oberstdorf (815 m) via Spielmannsau to Kemptner Hütte (1844 m) — E5 trail, about 4 hours, then the standard route via Oberes Mädelejoch and Krottenkopfscharte to the summit, roughly 3 hours, moderate difficulty, sure-footedness required
• Holzgau (1103 m) in the upper Lech valley via the Höhenbachtal, past the Simms waterfall and Untere Roßgumpenalpe to the Krottenkopfscharte, about 4 hours
• Alternative approaches: from Bernhardseck-Hütte via Mutte and Strahlkopf, from Hermann-von-Barth-Hütte through the Hermannskar, or from Elbigenalp via the Bernhardstal valley

Practical information

• The standard route requires sure-footedness and a head for heights near the summit (a short UIAA I scrambling section)
• The trail crosses the Austrian-German border at the Oberes Mädelejoch
• A demanding alternative is the north ridge (Nordgrat), rated UIAA III, reached trail-less through the Öfner Kar to the Hermannskarscharte

As the highest point of the entire Allgäu Alps, the Krottenkopf holds special appeal for peak-baggers looking to complete the region's summits.