From Wimbachbrücke, follow a well-maintained forest road uphill past Stubenalm to Mitterkaseralm on Watzmann. From here, the trail becomes narrower and steeper. From Falzalm, a well-established and frequently used trail leads to Watzmannhaus. Continue along an alpine trail to Hocheck.
This is where the Watzmann ridge begins, leading across Mittelspitze (2,713 meters) to Südspitze (2,712 meters). The marked ridge traverse is not continuously equipped with steel cables and takes you through exposed terrain with serious fall hazards throughout. It requires excellent weather and rock that is completely free of snow and ice. The route is narrow in places, with fixed cables on some sections. You must be absolutely surefooted and have a head for heights. Many sections involve UIAA grade I–II climbing, only some of which are equipped with fixed cables. The traverse is as spectacular as it is demanding—do not underestimate it! The view plunging down the legendary East Face to Lake Königssee is particularly breathtaking.
Important: If you are running behind schedule, bad weather is moving in, or your energy is fading, turn around at Mittelspitze!
From Südspitze, follow the marked, steep descent into the Wimbachtal valley. The route includes sections of loose scree and maintained trail, extended passages rated UIAA grade I, and sections with fixed steel cables, with steep terrain throughout. Surefootedness, a head for heights, climbing ability, endurance, and complete concentration are essential right to the very end!
The walk from the end of Wimbachgries is straightforward and can also be completed after dark with a headlamp.
