Zwerchweg

Climbing the third pitch (6-/6+) of Zwerchweg in Tannheim. This particular bit was really difficult for me to lead. It's a slab with very unreliable grips and steps, and I was very close to falling just before clipping in at the crux. It was the kind of experience that gives you vivid memories just as you are about to go to sleep at night.

About to start the little traverse to the left. This was a rare occation where an extra placement was used; a small friend just to have a point above belay.

Finishing the small traverse on the fourth pitch

On the summit, with the higher Gimpel in the background and Rote Flüh further away to the left.

The top abseil station is easily found by the short iron cable south of the western highest point on Zwerchwand.

The southern abseil route is slightly overhanging.

Zwerchweg topo

The Zwerchweg route at Zwerchwand has 6 pitches, where number 3 is by far the most demanding.

Chamoix in the mountains

As we head back down after a nice day of climbing, we meet a flock of chamoix peacefully grasing in front of Zwerchwand in the Tannheim mountains. This range is their home, and they are not afraid of us.

Gimpel, Gimpel vorbau and Zwerchwand (from left to right)

Kellerspitze seen from Zwerchwand