Schalfkogel is a striking summit in the Ötztal Alps that shows two completely different faces depending on where you stand - a steep icy flank from the east, and a calm, pyramid-like shape from the west. It's a genuine high-alpine goal for hikers with glacier experience looking to escape the crowds.

Seen from the east, the mountain rises in a steep firn-and-rock flank above the Gurgler Ferner glacier, while its northern ridge narrows into a sharp firn crest. From the west, the summit takes on the appearance of a smooth, symmetrical pyramid. The peak is completely surrounded by glaciers: the Diemferner to the northwest, the Gurgler Ferner and Kleinleitenferner to the northeast, and the Nördlicher Schalfferner to the south. In winter and spring the terrain is purely glacial, while in summer exposed rocky sections along the ridges add a scrambling character to the ascent.

How to reach the summit

• Hochwildehaus (2883 m), reachable from Obergurgl - route via the Gurgler Ferner glacier and Schalfkogeljoch to the rocky south ridge, about 4 hours, glacier gear and mountaineering experience required
• Ramolhaus (3005 m) - approach from the north via Firmisanjoch and the north ridge, about 3 hours

Practical information

• Glacier travel experience and equipment (ice axe, crampons, possibly rope) are required
• Strong glacier sunlight can cause serious eye problems - sunglasses are essential
• Nearest huts are Hochwildehaus and Ramolhaus, both serving as good bases for the ascent

The first ascent took place in 1830, made by French travel writer Frédéric Mercey together with porters from the Pfelderer Valley and an unnamed mountain guide from Merano.