#LocalHeroes | Barbara from the local store in Reith – Where regionality matters
Over a year ago Barbara started up Reither Eisladl with her home-made…
:: Well-equipped with climbing gear and helmets, we set off from Gasthof Hechenmoos on the outskirts of
Aurach towards the Kelchalm. We take a forest path to Pochwerk car park where we park above the ruins – and head up.
:: A signposted path leads us to our intermediate goal, the Oberkaseralm – an elevation of 1,750 m.
:: We go past the Alm to a spring, where there is a sign telling us how long the route is overall: at an elevation of 1,870 metres, the via ferrata 4 itself now awaits us.
:: Right at the start, we have to make our way up two short ladders and a smooth, vertical wall. There are metal posts to assist with the climb. A cord running between more posts leads to a spot where we can take a rest before proceeding to the main section. A windswept ladder leads up to a crossing with a slight overhang and on to an exposed passage. At the end of the passage is another steep ladder that takes us to the Gamsband plateau.
:: From here, we take a very steep path over grassy terrain to the final upward incline. It’s only a few minutes’ walk from the exit to the peak, which offers amazing views of the Hohe Tauern, the Wilder Kaiser, the Leogang Mountains, the Lofer Mountains and the Dachstein.
:: We begin the return leg by traversing the Tristkogel; we head towards the Oberkaseralm and along a fascinating historical path that leads us to the Kelchalm via the Saaljoch.
:: At the Kelchalm also called Bochumer Hut, we replenish our energies with Tyrolean specialities on the
delightful sun terrace before heading back to the car park.
TIP: Don’t forget your specialist climbing gloves! These keep your hands and fingers safe and ensure you have sufficient grip for the via ferrata.
