Rastkogel is a pyramid-shaped peak rising to 2762 m above sea level along the main ridge of the Tux Alps, dominating the Tuxertal valley below. It's a popular destination for both summer hikers and winter ski tourers thanks to the variety of routes leading up from different sides of the mountain.

At the summit, the ridge splits into three arms pointing west, north and east, though the rock faces of the massif are actually oriented north-south. The southern side drops fairly steeply into the Tuxertal valley, making the peak a striking landmark when viewed from below. In summer it offers a scenic alpine hike with wide views over the Zillertal Alps, while in winter it's a classic ski touring destination that can be climbed from three different sides.

How to reach the summit

• Rastkogelhütte (2117 m) — via the southeast ridge, about 3 hours, easy route (the standard approach)
• Weidener Hütte (1799 m) — via Haslspitze, Nurpensjoch and the west ridge, roughly 4 hours
• Vorderlanersbach — via the Lämmerbichlalm alpine pasture, Nurpensjoch and the west ridge, about 4.5 hours

Practical information

• In winter the peak can be climbed on ski tours from three sides — from Schwendberg, Innerst and Vorderlanersbach
• A ski resort with the Rastkogelbahn cable car operates on the southwest flank, accessible from Vorderlanersbach
• The shortest ascent starts from the top chairlift station at Horbergjoch and continues over the Hoarbergjoch — about 1.5 hours

Thanks to its commanding position above the Tuxertal, Rastkogel is one of the most frequently climbed peaks in the Tux Alps, drawing hikers in summer and ski tourers in winter alike.