The Mädelegabel (2,645 m) is one of the most striking summits of the Allgäu Alps, forming the famous 'three peaks' silhouette above Einödsbach together with the Trettachspitze and Hochfrottspitze. Its walls, carved from main dolomite rock, rise up to 400 metres and it ranks as the fourth-highest peak in the group.

The summit ridge marks the border between Germany and Austria, and the small Schwarzmilzferner glacier lies just below on the south-east side. The panorama takes in the surrounding Allgäu Alps and the neighbouring twin summits. In spring the mountain is a popular ski touring destination, while in summer hikers come for its accessible yet exciting scrambling route.

How to reach the summit

• Heilbronner Weg, branching off onto the ridge just above the Schwarzmilzferner — about 30 minutes, scrambling up to UIAA I+, moderately demanding but not very exposed and on solid rock
• Waltenbergerhaus — approx. 2.5 h to the summit
• Kemptner Hütte — approx. 2.75 h to the summit
• Rappenseehütte — approx. 5 h to the summit

Practical information

• The route runs along the German-Austrian border ridge
• Popular spring ski tour from the Lechtal, possibly with an overnight stay at Kemptner Hütte
• A summit cross was erected in 1961, bearing a plaque referencing the building of the Berlin Wall on the same day

The name Mädelegabel comes from 'Mähder' (a mown mountain meadow) and 'Gabel' (fork), describing how the three peaks resemble a fork when seen from the north.