Kleiner Solstein

The Kleiner Solstein is a mountain in the Nordkette range of the Karwendel Alps in Tyrol. It reaches 2,637 metres and stands higher than its neighbour, the Großer Solstein, by nearly 100 metres. The southern side drops steeply towards the Inn valley, while the northern face falls 600 metres into the Großkristental valley. Two valleys meet below: the Gleirsch valley runs southwest and the Erl Saddle lies to the north. The mountain’s sharp ridges and steep rock faces shape its dramatic profile. Climbers reach the summit by a marked route from the saddle between the two Solsteins. The path crosses a narrow rock ridge before ascending schrofen slopes to the flat summit ridge. Walkers can approach the saddle from the Solsteinehaus or from the Neue Magdeburger Hut via two southern routes. A more technical option follows the sharp eastern arête from the Gamswart Saddle with a UIAA grade of III-. Difficult climbs also tackle the north face. The summit ridge offers wide views across the Karwendel Alps and the Inn valley. To the west the Großer Solstein blocks part of the horizon, while to the east the peaks of the Gleirsch range appear. On clear days the Zugspitze can be seen far to the north. The contrast between the rugged north face and the gentler southern slopes is striking. The mountain remains a quiet destination compared with busier peaks nearby.