Karnase

The Karnase is a 2713-metre peak in the Villgratner range, straddling the border between St. Veit in Defereggen and Außervillgraten in East Tyrol. It sits on the main crest between the Rotegg to the south-west and the Gsaritzer Törl col to the north-east. A nameless 2652-metre bump lies between the Karnase and the col, while a northern spur leads westwards to the Platt. Two small streams, the Stemmeringer and Gsaritzer Almbach, rise close to the northern flanks. The Winkeltalbach drains the southern side, with the Walderalmbach joining it further east. Climbers regard the Karnase as a minor summit, most often reached from the Gsaritzer Törl via the north-east ridge. From the top the Rotegg can be gained by following the block-strewn and grassy ridge that connects the two peaks. The route is straightforward and rarely crowded, offering a quiet high-altitude traverse. The surrounding ridges give views across the Defereggen valley and into the rugged Villgratner chain. On clear days the Grossglockner and the Hohe Tauern can be seen to the north. The Karnase’s southern slopes drop steeply into the Winkeltal, a glaciated trough once used by summer herders. Remains of old alpine huts dot the high meadows, and ibex are often spotted on the rocky ribs above. The contrast between the green high pastures and the grey limestone slabs is striking. The summit itself is marked by a modest cairn, with room for a small group to stand and take in the panorama.