Reichenspitze is the highest peak of the Reichenspitzgruppe in the eastern Zillertal Alps, rising right on the border between Salzburg and Tyrol. At 3303 m it rewards climbers with a sweeping panoramic view over the surrounding glaciers and neighboring summits, making it a rewarding goal for experienced mountaineers.

The mountain is ringed by glaciers on every side — the Wildgerloskees to the north, the Rainbachkees to the east, and the Kuchelmooskees to the southwest. This gives the ascent a genuine high-alpine character, crossing snow and ice even in summer, while in winter the peak becomes a popular ski touring destination. The final ridge and summit offer wide views across the Zillertal Alps, with a real sense of remoteness and glacial wilderness.

How to reach the summit

• Plauener Hütte (2373 m) — the standard route, via a marked trail to the Kuchelmooskees glacier, then up the glacier and along the ridge near the Hahnenkamm, finishing with a steep summit slope involving some scrambling/climbing (grade II), demanding
• Richterhütte (2374 m) — alternative high-alpine approach
• Zittauer Hütte (2328 m) — alternative high-alpine approach
• In winter, a popular ski tour starts at the Speichersee Zillergründel reservoir, ascending via the Kuchelmooskees

Practical information

• Glacier travel gear is required (crampons, ice axe, possibly rope) as the route crosses active glaciers
• The final summit section involves grade II climbing (the historic first-ascent route via the east face is rated UIAA III)
• A summit cross marks the top

The first ascent was made in 1856 by an unnamed farmer from Prettau in the Ahrntal valley, while the first documented tourist ascent took place on 16 July 1865.