Switzerland Rote Furka

Unique box seat above the Silvretta glacier between Austria & Switzerland

Don´t forget your wide angle

The imposing Silvretta Glacier, the largest glacier in the mountain group of the same name (at the border triangle between Vorarlberg, Graubünden and Tyrol) is not easily accessible for hikers. Both from Partenen (Vorarlberg) and from Klosters (Graubünden) you need long routes to get there. The most beautiful view of this glacier is from the "Rote Furka" (2688m); this border pass between Austria and Switzerland is best reached from the Bielerhöhe. This demanding tour starts on the right bank of the Silvretta reservoir (2030m, quite easy on an almost flat route) and turns off after about 2.5 km into the Klostertal. On a wide forest path it continues relatively steeply to the Klostertaler Umwelthütte (2360 m, not managed). From here the high valley changes into a rough, stony wasteland; the path winds over moraines, dead ice and through countless scree fields, whereby one must also cross some glacial streams (please note the markings). Just before the pass you have to climb a 70 m high rock face; sure-footedness and a head for heights are required here. The view from the top of the "Rote Furka" to the Silvretta glacier is simply phenomenal and compensates in any case for the effort. If you want to go even further here, you can descend to the Silvretta Hut (2341 m, Swiss Alpine Club) in a good hour. Back to the Bielerhöhe, the same route is used. Beware, the glacier streams to be
crossed can be very swollen in warm weather in the afternoon. Total walking time: 7 to 9 hours (rest breaks included).