From lower Wildental, this is a morning view of today's goal, Ochsenloch. It's a saddle between the middle (left) and SW Schafalpkopf summits. The middle summit can in good conditions be climbed, following a part of the Mindelheimer ferrata (exposed).

Again from lower Wildental, an overview of the three Schafalpköpfe: North east, middle and south west summits. They are connected with the popular summer tour 'Mindelheimer Klettersteig'.

If taking the track past Hintere Wildenalpe, one keeps left at the little hut (closed), traversing past the north slope of SW. Schafalpkopf.

Looking back, towards upper Wildental, at the middle of the traverse. Elferkopf is already bathing in sunlight.

Ascending toward Ochsenloch. The saddle, not well visible here, is at the upper left.

It's holiday season. By now, Hohe Ifen across the valley will be crowded with skiers enjoying the beautiful day. We appreciate the relative calmness of a north slope - even better for the additional effort required!

Most tourers today have some trouble with the final few meters. The problem is a sneaky slanted rock face, not quite vsible, yet not properly covered by the snow. Unfortunately, this not the only place where rocks emerge from their hideout on this tour.

A group starts their ascent of M. Schafalpkopf along the Mindelheimer ferrata. Of course, oversnowed cables is to be expected. It is an exposed undertaking for experienced climbers.

Winter climbers on the Mindelheimer Klettersteig

Winter climbers on the Mindelheimer Klettersteig. This seemed to us one of the crux sections of their ascent.

A panorama view of Rappenalptal from Ochsenloch.

The 'mandatory' post skiing photo. The powder is marvellous, but more than one rock has been discovered below the snowy veil.

Ice conditions in Wildental could be summarized as 'thin, maybe partially climbable'.

Looking back at our tour (right) and the less trodden slope to NE. Schafalpkopf.