From Fluchtkogel to the Vernagthütte

Avalanche danger scale

1 (LOW)An avalanche release is only possible with a large additional load on very few, extreme steep slopes. No spontaneous avalanches (so-called slides) are expected. Generally safe conditions.

2 (MODERATE)An avalanche release is likely with a large additional load especially on the specified steep slopes. Larger avalanches are not to be expected. The snow cover is generally well consolidated except for some steep slopes. Careful route choice on the specified steep slopes and aspects.

3 (CONSIDERABLE)An avalanche release is likely already with a small additional load mainly on the specified steep slopes. Occasionally some medium and sporadically also large avalanches are possible spontaneously. The snow cover on many steep slopes is only moderately to weakly consolidated. Experience in avalanche assessment necessary. Avoid specified steep slopes and aspects as much as possible.

4 (HIGH)An avalanche release is possible already with a small additional load mainly on the specified steep slopes. Occasionally many medium and also multiple large avalanches occur. On many steep slopes the snow cover is only weakly consolidated. Route choice limited to moderately steep terrain and attention to avalanche run-out zones. A lot of experience in avalanche assessment is necessary.

5 (VERY HIGH)Numerous large avalanches, also in moderately steep terrain, are expected spontaneously. At this warning level no safe operation in ski areas is possible. The snow cover is generally weakly consolidated and unstable. Avoid tours is recommended.

See also at lawine.tirol.gv.at

Recommended ski tour equipment

The "normal ski tour equipment" consists of touring skis with touring bindings, telescopic poles, climbing skins, crampons, digital avalanche transceiver, avalanche shovel, avalanche probe, first aid kit and a mobile phone. A "complete glacier equipment" includes a harness, two prusik loops or ascenders of different lengths, two HMS carabiners, ice axe, crampons and a rope. A backpack with suitable content must be carried, including change of clothes, sun protection, cold protection, food and enough to drink! For hut overnights do not forget hygiene articles and a hut sleeping bag!

DIFFICULTY ASSESSMENT

• Easy: Easy, short to moderately long tours with ascents that do not or only briefly exceed 25°.
• Medium: Medium difficulty, moderately long to long tours with ascents that do not or only briefly exceed 35°.
• Difficult: Difficult, long to very long tours with ascents that reach 40° or more, and climbing passages up to grade II (UIAA).