Walking EuropeRastkogel & Wanglspitze from Finkenberger Almbahn
Walk 6036
Country - Austria
Region - Zillertal (Tyrol)
Author - Lou Johnson
Ascent - 892 metres / 2944 feet
Descent - 892 metres / 2944 feet
Time - 5.50 hours
Grade - mod/hard
This high mountain walk takes you away from ski development and should be reserved for a fine day. The path is well defined and should present no difficulties to experienced walkers. Note that there are no mountain huts or other sources of food and refreshment once the upper station of the cablecar has been left.
Start & End The top station of the two stage Finkenberger Almbahn whose valley station is in the village of Finkenberg.
Exit the upper station of the Finkenberger Almbahn., which is close to the highest point of the Penken (2095m). Sadly this ridge has suffered from over development and the infrastructure for skiers has had a large impact on the appearance of what was once an attractive mountain. Bear left and follow path 57 as it follows a broad track that descends to Penkenjoch.
From here the ascent starts and apart from a few downhill sections the remainder of the outward walk is uphill. Reaching Wangalm you leave the track followed from Penken and take path 57 climbing more steeply to reach the Wanglspitze (2420m). The onward route takes you across more remote country although there is still some ski infrastructure in evidence. At Horbergerjoch continue straight ahead and at the junction shortly after, bear right to the summit of the Horbergspitze (2538m). A further descent to a col followed by crossing the flank of the Grindlspitze leads you to a path junction (2590m). Go left here and make the final ascent to the summit of the Rastkogel (2762m).
The route may be truncated at any point as the return follows the route used for the outward leg.
The walk may also be started from the top station of the Penkenbahn. However this adds extra time and ascent to the route.
Suggested Maps
- Mayrhofen Tuxer Tal - Wanderkarte - 1:25000 - www.wave.at
Stay Safe
Do enjoy yourself when out walking and choose a route that is within your capabilities especially with regard to navigation.
Do turn back if the weather deteriorates especially in winter or when visibility is poor.
Do wear the right clothing for the anticipated weather conditions. If the weather is likely to change for the worse make sure you have enough extra clothing in your pack.
Do tell someone where you are planning to walk especially in areas that see few other walkers.
Do take maps and other navigational aids. Do not rely on mobile devices in areas where reception is poor. Take spare batteries especially in cold weather.
Do check the weather forecast before leaving. The Met Office has a number of forecasts for walkers that identify specific weather risks.
Please Note - These walks have been published for use by site visitors on the understanding that Walking Britain is not held responsible for the safety or well being of those following the routes as described. It is worth reiterating the point that you should embark on a walk with the correct maps preferably at 1:25000 scale. This will enable any difficulties with route finding to be assessed and corrective action taken if necessary.