Widderstein

The Widderstein is a 2,533-metre peak in the Allgäu Alps of western Austria’s Vorarlberg state. It stands as the highest point in the Southeastern Walsertal Mountains subgroup, overlooking the Kleinwalsertal valley to the north. To its east the Elferkopf and Walser Geißhorn rise nearby, while the Hochtann Mountain Pass lies to the south. A small lake called Hochalpsee sits in a hollow below the northwest flank at 1,970 metres. The mountain’s summit block is made of main dolomite pushed up over older Allgäu rock formations.

The first recorded climb was made in 1669 by Reverend Bickel from Schröcken, though some sources give 1664. The normal route starts at the Hochtannberg Pass and passes the Widderstein Hut before reaching the rock massif. From there a marked UIAA grade I path leads through a rockfall-prone gully to the summit ridge and the summit cross. Several climbing routes also ascend the faces, including a grade IV+ north face climbed in 1897 by E. König and R. Schmierle.

Visitors find a high alpine landscape of meadow slopes, rock faces and a small mountain lake. The summit offers wide views across the Lechquellen and Allgäu ranges. The Widderstein Hut provides a base for climbers and walkers, while the Hochtannberg Pass and Gemstelbach valley offer alternative approaches. The mountain’s name, recorded since the 11th century, refers to the ibex once found on its slopes.