Ski tour from Baad to the Karlstor
Tour description
The Karlstor is a notch between the small and large Widderstein.
Everything you want in a ski tour: With a bit more than 900 meters of ascent, the climb is sporty and demands fitness. The steep slopes promise great downhill fun under good & safe conditions.
Upon reaching the notch, a beautiful view awaits.
Baad is also popular with winter hikers in winter. Especially on the first section, a little more consideration for other winter sports enthusiasts is required during ascent or descent. Then there is enough space and natural enjoyment guaranteed for everyone.
Experiencing nature consciously stands for respectful coexistence among winter sports enthusiasts and towards nature. The described route takes into account the designated forest-wildlife protected areas in winter in the Bärgunt and Gemstel Valleys.
Baad
Mittelberg
Route description
Ascent
The start of the route is in the mountain village of Baad, which can be easily reached by bus (Walserbus from Oberstdorf). Initially, we follow the winter hiking trail towards Bärgunt Valley until a fork. There, we keep left and continue on the "Brunnenweg" (not gritted). After about 15 minutes, we reach the Alpe Widderstein (not operated in winter); here we turn left onto the meadow. We cross the meadow steeply uphill until we reach the v-shaped stream bed, which leads us straight towards the small Widderstein. After a short section of forest, we reach a steep open slope, which we ascend to the right, thus being under the north face of the great Widderstein. At the end of the approx. 600 meters altitude slope (about 40 degrees steep), the terrain flattens a bit; we keep left and arrive at the Karlstor. Now we stand between the small and great Widderstein with a magnificent view down into the Gemstel Valley.
Descent, same as the ascent route to Bärgunt Valley or for practiced and experienced ski tourers to Gemstel Valley
After overcoming the notch/ledge (caution advised here!), we enjoy the long descent into Gemstel Valley. Towards the end, we keep slightly left and reach the summer hiking trail (not groomed in winter) directly past Bernhard's Gemstelalp. From here, the summer hiking trail descends into the Gemstelboden directly onto the Steinbock cross-country trail – please be considerate of the cross-country skiers here. At the bottom, we follow the road to the Gemse bus stop - Line 1.
Recommended equipment
Off secured pistes and trails, everyone is responsible for themselves and must inform themselves about alpine dangers, especially avalanche danger. Weather conditions and snow conditions may require changes in the route. For experienced ski tourers.
The given GPS track is only a suggestion. No liability can be assumed for the accuracy of the data.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS:
- 144 Alpine emergencies Vorarlberg
- 112 European emergency number (works with any mobile phone/network)
Complete ski touring equipment including avalanche emergency gear: avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe (standard); optional backpack with avalanche airbag
Further info & links
Tips
The ski tour should only be undertaken under absolutely safe conditions.
Further links
Experiencing nature consciously
www.vorarlberg.travel/safety-tips
Alpine Club Map Bavarian Alps - Kleinwalsertal, Hoher Ifen, Widderstein - BY 2