Hoher Dachstein is the 2nd tallest mountain in the Northern Limestone Alps and one of the tallest in Austria. The peak is part of the Dachstein Massif, a prominent mountain range that is popular among hikers, climbers, and skiers.
Hoher Dachstein : At a Glance
Location: Upper Austria/Styria, Austria
Height: 2,995 m (9,826 ft)
First Ascent: 1834 by Peter Karl Thurwieser
Mountain Range: Dachstein massif
Size: The entire massif is over 230 sq miles
Geology
The Dachstein massif is composed of limestone, which was formed during the Triassic period, around 250 million years ago. The limestone was deposited on the ocean floor and then uplifted and folded by tectonic forces.
This area of the Alps is also well-known for its fossils. There, several important finds have taken place.
Hoher Dachstein itself is a massive peak with a broad, flat summit. It is surrounded by steep cliffs and deep valleys and is known for its impressive glacial formations and towering rock faces.
Climate
The climate of Hoher Dachstein is typical of the high Alps, with cold temperatures and heavy snowfall in the winter and mild temperatures and occasional thunderstorms in the summer.
The temperature at the summit of Hoher Dachstein rarely rises above freezing, even in the summer months, and snow can persist on the summit and upper slopes year-round.
Activities
Hoher Dachstein is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities throughout the year. In the winter, the mountain is a popular skiing destination, with several ski resorts and extensive backcountry skiing opportunities.
In the summer, hikers and climbers flock to the mountain to explore its rugged terrain and stunning vistas.
Nearby Mountains
Grossglockner (3,798 meters)
Grossglockner is the highest mountain in Austria and is located in the Hohe Tauern range, south of the Dachstein massif.
It is a popular destination for hikers, skiers, and climbers and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.
Wilder Kaiser (2,344 meters)
Wilder Kaiser is a mountain range located in the Austrian state of Tyrol, to the west of the Dachstein massif. It is known for its jagged peaks and challenging climbing routes, as well as its picturesque alpine villages and ski resorts.
Hochkönig (2,941 meters)
A majestic mountain in Austria, standing at an elevation of 2,941 meters (9,649 feet).
Watzmann (2,713 meters)
This iconic mountain in Germany's Bavarian Alps features three main peaks, with the highest reaching 2,713 meters (8,901 feet).
Climbing History
The mountain was first climbed in 1834 by Peter Karl Thurwieser, who was guided on his trip by two brothers, Adam, and Peter Gappmayr. But, there is a bit of controversy regarding the order of events.
It wasn't until 1847 that Friedrich Simony reached the summit in winter. Today, 100+ climbers try to achieve the summit yearly, in winter and summer.
The best-known routes on the mountain are:
Schulter-Anstieg
Randkluft-Anstieg
West ridge
All three of these routes require knowledge of the peak, experience with glacier crossings, and rock climbing experience.