1879
2,973 m
Michl Innerkofler, Georg Ploner
WESTLICHE ZINNE
Normal route (III+)
Südtirolalpin
Certified Mountain Guide
IFMGA - Mountain Guides Associations
Mail suedtirolalpin@gmail.com
Prices from
330,- €
THE MOUNTAIN
Westliche Zinne via the normal route is a climbing tour in the Sexten Dolomites – steeped in history on the rock and with noticeably less traffic than its famous bigger neighbour.
Difficulty III+ (UIAA) · 8.5 h · Sexten Dolomites
Among alpinists, the Westliche Zinne is known above all for its dramatically overhanging north face. It has one of the largest roofs in the Alps. The normal route on the Westliche Zinne is also a highly rewarding objective. On the one hand, the crowds are much smaller than on its neighbouring summit, the slightly higher Große Zinne; on the other, this ascent also offers a fine mix of easy climbing, demanding route-finding, and in between repeatedly easier walking sections.
What applies to the Große Zinne also applies to the Westliche Zinne: alpine history was written on its walls. Milestones in alpine climbing were repeatedly pushed forward here, and even through the more than 40-metre overhanging roof in the middle of the north face—long considered impossible—runs Pan Aroma, a free climbing route by Alexander Huber (XI-). The fact that the Westliche Zinne is a few metres lower than the Große Zinne meant that its first ascent only took place a full 10 years later.
ABOUT THE TOUR
Westliche Zinne – Normal Route: The starting point for this wonderful climbing route is the car park of Auronzohütte above Misurina. First, we follow the line below the south face for a short distance, then ascend via a zigzag path across the scree slopes to the start.
From the base, the route climbs up a gully, partly on loose scree and partly in easy climbing. This is followed by a section of easy walking terrain up to the rock wall, where the route steepens. We climb the wall at grade III, followed by a short traverse into a gully. At its end, a chimney (III+) leads to the ring ledge. The ring ledge is traversed a short way to the left, after which we tackle the summit wall.
In sustained climbing that never exceeds the difficulties encountered so far, we continue all the way to the summit.
INFO
Services
Included in the price:
- Entire organization and guidance by a state-certified mountain guide
- All necessary reservations are made in advance
Additional costs:
- Transfers to and from the meeting point
- Auronzo Hut toll fees
- Individual tips
* Rental equipment (€10 per piece of equipment)
Facts
Location:
Sexten Dolomites
Best time of year:
June - October
Duration:
1 day
approx. 8 hours
Meeting point:
Lake Misurina parking lot
What you need
Safety-relevant requirements
- Grade III climbing
- Surefootedness even on loose scree
Requirements for enjoyment
- Freedom from vertigo
PRICING
Participants:
1-2 people
Prices:
1 person:
2 people:
550,- €
330,- €
If you have any questions or need further information, please write them in the comment field of the inquiry form.
Before submitting your request: Please read the "important information" about risks in mountaineering carefully.
Dates:
upon request
PROGRAM
Day tour: Westliche Zinne
Meeting at an agreed time at the car park by Dürrensee. We drive together to Auronzohütte. A short equipment check, then we set off towards the access gully. We rope up and climb the normal route on the Westliche Zinne through varied, enjoyable terrain. Fine climbing sections alternate with easier walking ground, making for a lovely mix. After around 3–4 hours of climbing, we reach the summit.
The view from the top, and above all the sight of the Große Zinne from a perspective granted to only very few, is impressive. On a short rope and via several abseil points, we make our way back down to the foot of the Westliche Zinne and return to the starting point at Auronzohütte. The total duration of the tour is about 8–9 hours.
Total time: 8.5 h | ↑ 700 m ascent | ↓ 700 m descent | Difficulty: III+ (UIAA)
The story of the first ascent
Due to its lower altitude, the Western Zinne was considered a less desirable destination than its taller neighbor. Consequently, it wasn't until 10 years after the first ascent of the Grosse Zinne that the two mountaineers Luigi Orsolina and Gustav Gröger attempted it. In August 1879, they reached a rocky outcrop on the southern flank, which, in the fog, they mistakenly believed to be the summit. A few days later, on August 21 of the same year, Michel Innerkofler, a cousin of Franz Innerkofler, and Georg Ploner, an innkeeper in Schluderbach, reached the highest point and cleared up the misconception.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - (FAQs)
What requirements should I meet for the normal route on Westliche Zinne?
You should be sure-footed, feel comfortable in exposed terrain, and already have some climbing experience. The tour on the Westliche Zinne is a classic alpine climbing route and thrives on the alternation between walking terrain, easy climbing, and short, more demanding passages.
What equipment do I need for the tour?
Above all, you need suitable mountain boots and weather-appropriate clothing. You will receive the exact packing list with the confirmation email. Technical equipment can be rented from Südtirolalpin for a small wear-and-tear fee.
How long does the tour on Westliche Zinne take?
You should allow around 8.5 hours in total for the tour. The pure walking and climbing time is about 6.5 hours, plus breaks, rope work, and the shared schedule with the South Tyrolean mountain guide.
