Mindelheimer via ferrata

From the starting point for the Mindelheimer via ferrata, the Fiderepass hut, it goes briefly downhill and then up in switchbacks over a scree field to the Fiderescharte. Here you keep right and after a short time reach the ridge at the start of the via ferrata.

After an initially still easy section follows an overhanging wall (C) and crossing of an angled ladder (B). Over an unsecured section the route leads to the summit of the 3rd Schafalpenkopf. From there it goes down the summit ridge (B/C) and over a short bridge in the form of a horizontal ladder (A/B). The further descent leads over an inclined ramp (A/B) and at some step-poor places supported by iron pegs (B/C) down into the notch between the two Schafalpenköpfe.

The ascent via the sawtooth ridge to the middle Schafalpenkopf partly leads very exposed past ladders, chimneys, and a wall step (B) up to the summit. From there it goes partly unsecured down into a notch (B).

The ascent to the southern Schafalpenkopf continues to an unsecured rock fissure and over a slabby section (A/B) on trail traces to the summit. From there over a ladder (A/B) and a crack corner to the exit of the Mindelheimer via ferrata.

From the exit continue towards Kemptner Kopf and descend via the hiking trail to the ridge into the Kemptner notch. Descend over steep block terrain via the Hintere Wildenalpe to the Fluchtalpe. From there return through the Wildental to Mittelberg, Schwendle.

Complete via ferrata equipment required (climbing harness, via ferrata set, helmet)

Sturdy footwear and weatherproof clothing

Alpine experience as well as absolute surefootedness and no fear of heights required! Unsuitable for beginners and inexperienced persons. No escape or emergency exit.

Complete via ferrata equipment required (climbing harness, via ferrata set, helmet). No continuous cable protection on the via ferrata.

There is a danger to life during thunderstorms on via ferratas. Danger of rockfall by those ahead. Proceed at your own risk!

EMERGENCY CALL:

144 Alpine emergencies Vorarlberg

112 European emergency call (works with any mobile phone/network)

When arriving by car, form carpool groups.

Most arrival routes from Germany converge in Ulm and continue on the A7. At the Allgäu motorway junction take the A980 section to the Waltenhofen junction and continue on the four-lane B19 via Sonthofen and Oberstdorf into the Kleinwalsertal.

From Austria (Vorarlberg) and Switzerland you reach Kleinwalsertal via the Bregenzerwald (Hittisau) – Riedberg pass – Fischen – Oberstdorf.

Coming from Tyrol, the fastest route leads via the A7 to Kempten and further on the B19 towards Oberstdorf. You do not need a motorway vignette to drive into the valley.

Starting point of the route: Walserbus line 4, bus stop Schwendle. From there on foot ascent to the Fiderepass hut. This is only accessible on foot.

Return from: Walserbus line 1, bus stop Bödmen

>>> Walserbus timetable

Paid parking spaces are located in the Mittelberg district of Schwendle.

The via ferrata is very popular; therefore, during the main season, you must expect oncoming traffic.

This is a long and overall not to be underestimated route. Those who want to tackle it with a bit more time reserve can, instead of descending directly into the Wildental from the exit of the Mindelheimer via ferrata via the Kemptner notch, continue hiking to the Mindelheimer hut and plan an additional overnight stay there.