Ski tour · Jochpass · Schaftal · Engstlenalp
Schafberg and Graustock-South East Shoulder – Map, Topos and Route
Behind the Jochpass begins a small alpine world. Crossing to Schafberg requires attention; beyond that opens the Schaftal valley. The continuation leads to the southeast shoulder of the Graustock mountain. The actual Graustock summit is further up and can be reached via an exposed rock face.
- Difficulty
- Depending on route · extended crossing and footbridge
- Time required
- Depending on the destination and return · plan with reserves
- Ascent
- Approximately 350 m to Schafberg · Continuation additionally
- Descent
- Up to about 750 m from the shoulder towards Engstlenalp
- Start
- Jochpass · 2207 m
- Tour destination
- Schafberg approx. 2520 m · South Shoulder 2610 m
- Aspect
- Several exhibitions
Times and elevation gain are approximate figures for the route described. Allow additional time for variants, lift rides and the return journey.
Understand the line
Map and Topos
The maps and topos show the approach, key passages and descents in context. Open the original images to read small labels and save the maps offline before your tour.
The topo refers to the South East Shoulder as the «Graustock Winter Summit». The marked ridge leads from there to the main summit. These two points are different hiking destinations.
Interactive ski touring map
Open the full-size map on swisstopo ↗
The lines drawn show the terrain. Determine the exact route based on current snow conditions, closures, and protection zone regulations; use an up-to-date topographic map for navigation.
From the starting point to the destination
Route description
Jochpass – Schafberg
From the Jochpass at 2207 m to the Schafberg on the line marked on the topo map. Crossing over rocky terrain is at your own risk. The Jochpass must not be confused with the higher-lying Jochstock.
Schaftal – Southeast shoulder
Depending on the destination, continue to Schaftal and the South-Eastern shoulder of the Graustock. This route has a short, steep section at an angle of about 40°. Additional elevation gain is added to the ascent to Schafberg for the continuation.
Winter destination or main summit
The shoulder at 2610 m is the usual winter hiking destination for this continuation. The further route to the main summit at around 2660 m is marked on the topo map: an exposed, partly overhanging ridge with climbing pitches up to II. It is not automatically part of the ski tour.
The return is part of the tour
Descent and variants
Depending on the chosen route, return to Schaftal or head towards Engstlenalp. Check the opening times of the lifts in advance. Use only expressly permitted connections on the Engstlensee; a wintery layer of snow does not indicate the load-bearing capacity of the ice.
What matters
Key points and planning
The exposed crossing and steep footfall determine the requirements. Additional alpine experience, securing equipment and time would be necessary for the main summit. Therefore, the two objectives should be clearly distinguished during planning.
Check the avalanche bulletin and weather forecast for the relevant elevations and aspects. Plan your timing around snow conditions, warming and lift operating hours. Existing tracks do not replace your own assessment.
Appropriate to the route and the conditions
Equipment and requirements
- Touring skis with climbing skins and suitable ski crampons; confidence in operating your bindings.
- An avalanche transceiver, probe and shovel for each person, plus practised companion-rescue skills.
- An up-to-date offline map, navigation tools, first-aid kit, bivouac bag and adequate warm and weatherproof clothing.
- Confident off-piste skiing, fitness and sufficient reserves for the entire route.
- For hard or icy steep sections, plan to carry crampons and an ice axe; depending on the route, a helmet, harness and rope may also be needed for protection. You must be proficient in the techniques required.
Frequently asked questions
Can you reach the Graustock Main Summit with this ski tour?
The described continuation ends at the southeast shoulder at 2610 m. A exposed ridge with climbing grades up to II follows to the main summit.
Is the Jochpass at 2564 m?
The Jochpass is at an altitude of 2207 m. The elevation of 2564 m belongs to the Jochstock.
Traveling together
Sheepberg and Graustock-South Shoulder with mountain guide
Would you like to take this guided tour? When planning, we adjust the destination, route, and pace to your experience and the current conditions. You can request your preferred date through the ski touring offer.
