Lenkstein (3236 m) is a striking peak in the Rieserferner Group, rising exactly on the border between Austria and Italy, between East and South Tyrol. Its summit also marks the boundary between the Hohe Tauern National Park and the Rieserferner-Ahrn Nature Park, making it a rare meeting point of two protected landscapes.

Standing on the ridge, you get sweeping views toward Hochgall, the highest peak of the Rieserferner Group, just 3.5 km to the southwest. The terrain is classic high-alpine country - rocky ridgelines, patches of firn snow and loose rock, offering a demanding but rewarding climb in summer, while in winter and spring the route becomes a serious snow and ice tour.

How to reach the summit

• From the southeast: via the Defereggen Valley (East Tyrol), through the Patscher Valley to the Barmer Hütte (2610 m), then over the Roßhornscharte (2916 m) and Lenksteinjoch - partly secured with steel cables, demanding
• From the west: starting in the village of Rein (1595 m) in South Tyrol, via the Ursprung Valley and the western flank, with the Kasseler Hütte (also known as Hochgallhütte, 2276 m) as a base

Practical information

• The route from Barmer Hütte crosses a steep, rocky step secured with wire cables just above the Roßhornscharte
• The final stretch to the summit crosses reddish rock and, depending on season, firn snow
• The climb crosses both a national border and the boundary of two protected nature areas

The name Lenkstein likely derives from a rock formation below the summit - 'Lenke' is a local word for a dip or notch in a mountain ridge.