Mitterspitz

The Mitterspitz is a 2,925-metre peak in the Dachstein range of the Northern Limestone Alps. It stands between the Torstein and Hoher Dachstein, separated by the Untere and Obere Windlucke passes. Together these three form the striking ‘Dreizack’ of the Dachstein’s southern walls. The mountain straddles the border between the Austrian provinces of Styria and Upper Austria. Its first ascent was made on 14 August 1872 by Oskar Simony with G. Schmied. They climbed via the Untere Windlucke and the western flank. The route remains a classic for experienced mountaineers today. The summit offers wide views across the Dachstein glacier and the Totes Gebirge to the north. A marked trail leads from the Windlucke passes to the summit ridge. The final section is a steep climb over limestone slabs. From the top, the sheer southern faces drop dramatically toward the valleys below. On clear days the Hoher Dachstein’s summit cross is visible to the north-west. The contrast between the pale limestone and the dark conifer forests in the distance makes the scene unforgettable.