A summit walk with far-reaching views
The Karspitze is not a peak to be “ticked off”. It is a mountain to be earned – step by step, with an open gaze and a steady breath.
Just above the Gostnerhof, starting from the car park at 1,402 metres, everyday life is left behind. Trail no. 2 leads westwards through a quiet mountain valley, accompanied by the soft crunch of the forest track and the scent of woodland. With each alpine pasture – from the Steinwiesalm (1,537 m) on to the Zirmaitalm (1,891 m, open and serviced from June to September) – the landscape opens a little further. Swiss stone pine forest, alpine roses, light and air alternate, until the tree line finally lies below.
From the striking shoulder of the mountain at 2,080 metres, the world suddenly feels wide. The south-eastern ridge leads gently yet purposefully towards the summit: grassy in places, rocky in others, always with sweeping views. The Dolomites come into sight, the Eisack Valley drops away far below, and at the top awaits the Karspitze at 2,517 metres – calm, panoramic, clear.
The descent completes the loop via the Schalderer Scharte and the Spilucker Lacke. One route, two possible directions, countless perspectives. A hike that shows how rewarding it is to take your time – and gain altitude.
The circular hike can be walked clockwise or anti-clockwise and offers impressive panoramic views throughout.
