The hike to Almerhorn peak (2,985 m) from Staller Saddle is a demanding yet rewarding summit tour in the Rieserferner mountain group. The peak offers sweeping views over Antholz Valley, Defereggen Valley and the surrounding 3,000-metre peaks.
From the high starting point at Staller Saddle (2,050 m), the route first leads through gentle alpine meadows and high plateaus before becoming increasingly alpine. The ascent crosses varied terrain, including grassy slopes, scree fields and rocky sections.
In the upper section, the path becomes steeper and more alpine. The final ascent requires sure-footedness and good navigation skills, but rewards hikers with breathtaking views of the glaciers of the Rieserferner group and far into the Eastern Alps.
Variant:
Just below the summit, at the Jägerscharte, there is the option to extend the tour by descending to the Barmer Hut (2,610 m). This option is particularly suitable for experienced hikers who wish to turn the route into a traverse or circular hike.
The descent follows either the ascent route or the variant to the Barmer Hut.
This tour is recommended for experienced mountain hikers seeking a scenic and challenging summit experience.
An early start is especially worthwhile, as most of the route is exposed to the sun from the morning hours. Starting early means more pleasant temperatures and clearer visibility.
The summit rewards with a breathtaking panoramic view over South Tyrol and East Tyrol – one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the region.
The starting point is Staller Saddle (2,052 m). From there, follow the marked trails towards the high plateaus above the pass.
The route initially crosses gentle alpine pastures and gradually ascends. With increasing altitude, the terrain becomes rockier and more alpine. The path leads across grassy slopes, then over scree and rocky terrain.
Further on, head towards the summit ridge of Almerhorn. The final section involves steeper passages, partly pathless or only faintly marked. Sure-footedness, a head for heights and good orientation skills are required.
Just below the summit, you reach the Jägerscharte. From here, the final ascent leads to the summit of Almerhorn (2,985 m).
Variant:
From the Jägerscharte, it is possible to descend to the Barmer Hut (2,610 m).
The descent follows either the ascent route back to Staller Saddle or the variant to the Barmer Hut.
From the Puster Valley Road, near Olang, turn into the Antholz Valley and follow the road up the valley to Lake Antholz.
Behind the lake begins the pass road leading up to the Staller Saddle (2,052 m). The crossing of the Staller Saddle is single-lane and controlled by traffic lights:
From South Tyrol to Austria: every hour from :30 to :45
From Austria to South Tyrol: every hour from :00 to :15
The starting point of the tour is located directly at the Staller Saddle.