Hintergraslspitzen

The Hintergraslspitzen are three closely grouped summits in the Ötztal Alps of Tirol, standing along a ridge that splits from the Fluchtkogel’s north ridge at point 3417. This ridge separates the Vernagt from the Guslar glacier. Eastwards from the Hintergrasljoch the ridge rises first to point 3313, then to the main summit at 3325 metres and the Hintergraslturm at 3270 metres. South-east of the Hintergraslturm lies the Hintergrasleck at 3170 metres, reached from the Vernagthütte by a marked path. The easiest route to the main summit starts at the Vernagthütte and climbs grassy slabs and broken rock in about an hour to the Hintergrasleck. From there the route follows the narrow crest north-west, passing the Hintergraslturm on its northern side. The final hour from the Hintergrasleck involves climbing difficulties up to grade II on the UIAA scale. The name Hintergraslspitzen probably comes from shepherds or hunters who noticed the patches of grass on the south-east slopes away from the main ridges visible from the valley. Visitors find a high alpine world of steep grassy slopes, sharp ridges and small glacier remnants. The Vernagthütte provides a base for the ascent and shelter before the climb. Views extend across the Guslarferner to the Weißkugel and along the main chain of the Ötztal Alps. The route demands sure-footedness and a head for heights, but rewards with solitude and sweeping vistas of the surrounding peaks.