Gran Pilastro

The Gran Pilastro (Hochfeiler in German) rises at the border between South Tyrol (Italy) and North Tyrol (Austria). It was first climbed in 1865 and its 300-metre high ice wall is well-known among alpinists.

The Punta Bianca (Hoher Weißzint) and the Punta Hochferner (Hochfernerspitze) are situated near the Gran Pilastro. The northern wall of the Gran Pilastro descends to the artificial lake Schlegeis (Zillertal), whereas at the foot of its southern wall lies the Val di Vizze (Pfitscher Tal) near Vipiteno (Sterzing). The settlement of Lappago in the Valle Aurina is only 9 km as the crow flies from the peak.

The 3,510-high Gran Pilastro is easily accessible both from the Valle Aurina and the artificial lake lago di Neves near Lappago in a 7.5-hour hike. The route is not particularly difficult, however, you definitely need suitable equipment for the very exposed spots and the traverse of the Vedretta del Gran Pilastro (Gliederferner), as some sections are covered with ice even in summer.

Possible refreshment points with overnight accommodation: Rifugio Ponte di Ghiaccio (Edelrauthütte, 2,545 m a.s.l.) and Rifugio Gran Pilastro (Hochfeilerhütte, 2,715 m).