Ski touring Glattigrat 2191 m
The Glattigrat is one of the most popular introductory ski tours around Niederrickenbach. The route leads over the long ridge above the Brisenhaus and offers an ideal combination of easy navigation, a moderate gradient and wonderful views of the Brisen, the Engelberg valley and Lake Lucerne.
Many locals use the Glattigrat as a training route. Thanks to the steady gradient, the route is perfect for practising kick turns, climbing technique and fitness.
Tour information
Region: Niederrickenbach, Engelberg
Category: Ski Touring
Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆☆ (2/6)
Season: December – March
Ascent: 1,030 m climb
Departure: 1,030 m climb
Start Niederrickenbach (1,160 m above sea level)
Summit Glattigrat (2191 m above sea level)
Exposition: North-West
Highlights: Ideal ski touring route for beginners, perfect training terrain, easy navigation and a beautiful view.
Route description
The tour starts in Niederrickenbach and leads via the Brisenhaus onto the long ridge towards Glattigrat. The terrain is straightforward and rises steadily.
From the summit there is a magnificent view of the Brisen and the surrounding mountains. The descent follows the ascent route and offers plenty of skiing enjoyment in good snow conditions.
Highlights
- Ideal introductory ski tour
- Popular training goal among locals
- Easy navigation
- Beautiful powder snow slopes
- Magnificent views of the Brisen and Engelberg
Requirements
The tour is ideally suited for beginners and leisurely ski tourers.
You should:
- staying safe on ski tours
- mastering the first hairpin bends
- have experience with avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe
- have a normal basic level of fitness for around 1,000 metres of ascent
Hazards
The route runs mostly through easy terrain. Nevertheless, the avalanche situation and snow conditions must be taken into account at all times.
Out with a mountain guide
The Glattigrat is ideal for learning the basics of ski touring or improving your ascent technique. As a mountain guide, I will teach you the correct track-setting, kick-turn technique and the most important basics of avalanche assessment.
The tour is ideally suited as preparation for more demanding ski tours.
FAQ
Is the Glattigrat one of the most popular ski tours in Central Switzerland?
Yes. The Glattigrat is probably one of the most popular ski tours in Central Switzerland. Thanks to the easy route, the beautiful views and the good accessibility, there are often many ski tourers out and about on sunny weekends.
Is it worth stopping for a bite at the Brisenhaus?
Yes, absolutely. The Brisenhaus is located right on the ascent route and is a popular meeting place for ski tourers. Stopping off on the sun terrace or having a nice lunch rounds off the tour perfectly.
Are there any exciting off-piste descents?
Yes. Experienced ski tourers will find several steep couloirs and demanding descent options on the south side towards Brisen and Gitschenen. However, these require safe avalanche conditions, good local knowledge and very solid skiing skills.
Is the Glattigrat suitable for beginners?
Yes. The normal route is technically straightforward and makes an excellent first ski tour or training tour. The steady climb makes the Glattigrat an ideal destination for practising kick turns and ascent technique.
Similar tours
- Salistock ski tour
- Ski tour up the Chaiserstuel
- Brisen ski tour
- Walegg ski touring
- Urner Haute Route
