Kleiner Dristkogel

The Kleine Dristkogel is a sharp, flat-topped mountain in the Kaunergrat range of the Ötztal Alps. It stands just south of the Wallfahrtsjöchl, an old crossing between the Pitztal and Kaunertal valleys. Its cone shape and broad flanks make it a striking landmark when seen from the north. The mountain is also called Pauschlerkogel and has a small glacier cirque on its south-eastern base. It is the lower twin of the nearby Grosse Dristkogel.

The first recorded climb was made in 1900 by F. Hörtnagl, A. Zott and O. Zott from the north-east. They reached the glacier cirque below the east face, crossed a steep snowfield, and climbed a narrow ice gully to the summit ridge. Earlier hunters may have reached the top from the south, but no proof remains. The normal route follows their line, graded UIAA II, and is still the usual way up.

A marked path from St Leonhard in the Pitztal leads to the Tiefentaler Alm and on to the Wallfahrtsjöchl. From there the route drops east into the glacier cirque and ascends a steep snow and rock gully to the summit ridge. The final section climbs a narrow chimney and a block crest to the top, where a small cairn and pole mark the highest point. An alternative from the south uses the Pauschlerscharte, while the north ridge offers a shorter but equally exposed climb.