Ski tour Gross Spannort 3198 m
Contents
The Gross Spannort is the most striking landmark of Engelberg and one of the most impressive ski mountaineering tours in Central Switzerland. The steep rock spires shape the panorama of the Engelberg valley and have captivated alpinists for generations.
In winter, several demanding routes lead to the summit. Particularly popular is the traverse from Klein Titlis via the Grassen and the Schlossberglücke with an overnight stay in the Spannorthütte. Also rewarding is the classic ascent from the Fürenalp via the Spannortjoch. Both variants require safe conditions, good stamina and experience in glaciated terrain.
Tour information
Region: Engelberg, Spannort
Category: ski mountaineering tour
Difficulty: ★★★★☆☆ (4/6)
Season: January – April
Ascent: 2,120 hm
Departure: 2,120 hm
Start Fürenalp (1,084 m above sea level) or Klein Titlis (3,028 m above sea level)
Summit Gross Spannort (3198 m above sea level)
Exposition: North / South
Highlights: Landmark of Engelberg, impressive high-altitude ski tour, overnight stay in the Spannorthütte, magnificent descents and high-alpine atmosphere.
Route description
The classic high-altitude ski tour starts at the Fürenalp and leads through the wild Spannorttal valley to the Spannorthütte SAC. After an overnight stay, the ascent continues via the Spannortjoch to the Gross Spannort. The final metres to the summit are usually covered on foot via easy rock climbing (UIAA II).
A particularly varied route starts on Klein Titlis. Via Grassen, Bärenzähnli and Schlossberglücke you reach the Spannorthütte and climb the Gross Spannort on the second day. This crossing is one of the most impressive high-altitude ski tours in the Engelberg valley.
Depending on the route, the descent is either back down into the Engelberg valley or via the ascent route.
Highlights
- Landmarks of Engelberg
- One of the finest high-altitude ski tours in Central Switzerland
- Spannorthütte SAC in a spectacular location
- combination of high-altitude ski tour and easy summit climbing
- Gorgeous glacial landscape and magnificent plunging views
Requirements
The ski tour to the Gross Spannort is aimed at experienced ski mountaineers.
You should:
- be able to ski safely in deep snow
- Bring glacier experience
- be able to walk safely in crampons
- master easy climbing up to UIAA II
- have good stamina for long days of touring
Hazards
The tour leads through glaciated high mountains. Crevasses, avalanches, steep slopes and changing snow conditions require careful planning and alpine experience.
Depending on the conditions, the final ascent is made on foot and involves easy scrambling in exposed terrain.
Out with a mountain guide
The Gross Spannort is one of my absolute favourite tours around Engelberg. I lead the tour regularly and know the various approaches, options and conditions around the Schlossberglücke, Spannortjoch and Spannorthütte.
Along the way, you benefit from local experience, efficient rope handling and a safe choice of route. Depending on the conditions, we will choose the most beautiful and safest option.
Should I already be fully booked on your preferred date, I would be happy to organise a mountain guide from my personal network.
FAQ
Is the Gross Spannort a difficult ski mountaineering tour?
Yes. The tour requires experience in glaciated terrain, confident skiing as well as easy climbing in the summit area.
Which route is the most scenic?
The two-day Engelberg Haute Route; from Klein Titlis via Grassen, Herrengrassen and onwards to the Spannortjoch is one of the most impressive high-altitude ski tours in the Engelberg valley.
Does one need crampons?
Yes. For the final ascent, crampons and an ice axe are part of the standard equipment.
Can the tour be done in a day?
Yes. Very fit mountaineers can climb the Gross Spannort in a single day from the Fürenalp valley station. However, most ski tourers choose the more leisurely option of an overnight stay in the Spannorthütte or, better still, the Grassenbiwak.
Similar tours
- Gross Titlis ski tour
- Titlis ski touring round trip
- Grassen ski mountaineering tour
- Ski tour of Reissend Nollen
- Urner Haute Route
- Gross Spannort Mountain Hike (Summer)
