Äußerer Knorrkogel 2.920m

The isolated summit which awaits after this climb is as traditional as its name, but provides superb ski touring terrain. There is a ridge between the Kristallwand and the Wildenkogel and this forms the northerly finish of the Froßnitztal. The Kleine Karleskees and Knorrkees characterise the north side of the Knorrkogel. The ascent proceeds via these glacial remains. Starting point is Matrei’s Tauernhaus, 2 km before the Felbertauern tunnel. In around 1 ½ hours the flat forest trail brings us to the alpine inns to Innergschlöss. From there we follow the road for another 1 ½ km to a bridge which has route signposts. Crossing the stream, the ski track proceeds along the summer trail via a short steep section (avalanches!) heading for Prager Hütten. At 2200 m we leave the main route, which continues to the aforementioned inns, providing another tour destination, and head southwards to Äußerer Knorrkogel. Please note: do not follow the route into the valley to the Löbbentörl! Via somewhat steeper moraine and bouldered terrain we reach a trough (peak 2373 m). The track bears mostly left (east) heading down from the Äußerer Knorrkogel; impressive ridge. Proceed via this route and change at 2700 m to proceed via a flat dip to the Kleine Knorrkees. We cross this and reach the summit ridge at the start of a small glacier. Go around the ridge and ideally via the southern flanks steep up to the cross on the summit. Descent along the ascent track. When snow conditions are very good there is a second variant, set out in the picture. It is shorter, but steeper and reaches the summit from the south-west, with a short, easy section of climbing. This does not take in the Knorrkees.

Additional ski tour tips can be obtained in the ski tour guides by Thomas Mariacher. These are available here: https://www.tyroliaverlag.at/item/Skitouren_in_Osttirol_und_Oberkaernten/Thomas_Mariacher/43058387