Ski tour Widderfeldstock 2357 m
Contents
The Widderfeldstock is a varied ski tour between Engelberg and Grafenort. Thanks to the Brunni or Rugisbalm cable car, the first metres of altitude can be easily overcome before the ascent leads through lonely forests and open slopes to the summit with its panoramic views.
The tour offers varied terrain and a rewarding descent. The variation via the «Leiterli» is particularly popular, representing an attractive alternative to the ascent route when snow conditions are good. The Widderfeldstock is ideally suited for experienced ski tourers looking for a quiet tour away from the well-known classics.
Tour information
Region: Engelberg, Grafenort
Category: Ski Touring
Difficulty: ★★★★☆☆ (4/6)
Season: December – March
Ascent: 950 hm
Departure: 1,470 hm
Start Grafenort (878 m above sea level) or Rugisbalm
Summit Widderfeldstock (2357 m a.s.l.)
Exposition: East / North-East
Highlights: Solitary ski tour, varied terrain, panoramic summit and exciting descent variation via the «Leiterli».
Route description
From Grafenort, the route first leads with the Rugisbalm cable car or on foot towards Rugisbalm. Afterwards, you ascend via Ober Frutt and the wide slopes below the Widderfeldstock to the summit.
The descent is either along the ascent route or via the steeper variant through the «Leiterli». In good snow conditions, this offers a particularly varied and rewarding descent back towards Grafenort.
Highlights
- Scenic summit between Engelberg and Grafenort
- Quiet ski tour away from the major classics
- Beautiful forest and open slopes
- Exciting descent over the «Leiterli»
- Ideal in safe snow conditions
Requirements
The tour is aimed at experienced ski tourers.
You should:
- be able to ski safely in deep snow
- Mastering switchbacks safely
- have experience with avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe
- have a good level of fitness for around 1,000 vertical metres of ascent
Hazards
The slope leading to the summit reaches around 40° in places and requires safe avalanche conditions. The descent via the «Leiterli» is steeper and is only recommended in good conditions.
Out with a mountain guide
The Widderfeldstock is a versatile ski tour offering several different ascent and descent routes. As a local mountain guide, I’ll choose the best route depending on snow and avalanche conditions and show you the region’s most beautiful slopes.
Along the way, you’ll pick up practical tips on route-finding, avalanche assessment and skiing technique in varied terrain.
FAQ
Is the Widderfeldstock suitable for beginners?
The tour is suitable for experienced ski tourers. The summit slope and the variant via the «Leiterli» require experience in steeper terrain.
Is the Rugisbalm cable car worth it?
Yes. A few metres of altitude can be saved using the small material cable car. However, the ride must be booked in advance by telephone.
When are the best conditions?
Between December and March. Following fresh snow, the tour frequently offers exceptional powder snow conditions.
Similar tours
- Walegg ski touring
- Zieblen Ski Tour
- Ski tour Wissberg
- Ski tour of the Alpelenspitz
- Urner Haute Route
