Steinschartenkopf — mountain in the Allgäu Alps, Tyrol, Austria

Physical characteristics

Like much of the Allgäu Alps, Steinschartenkopf forms part of the limestone-dominated landscape of the Northern Limestone Alps, with steep rock faces, scree slopes and alpine grassy terraces. Its summit is a rocky crest rather than a broad plateau, offering clear views to surrounding massifs. Climbers and hikers often note the exposed sections on approaches along ridgelines. Geological and topographic summaries are available from regional sources: Allgäu Alps overview.

Route and access

The mountain is most frequently reached as part of the Heilbronn Way, the high-level traverse that links huts and ridgelines across the central Allgäu Alps. The trail contains fixed protections in exposed stretches and traverses alpine terrain where weather and route-finding matter. Information on the Heilbronn Way and recommended equipment can be found at local alpine club pages: Heilbronn Way details and regional guides: nearby Hohes Licht routes.

History, naming and significance

The name Steinschartenkopf is German in origin; it combines elements that reference rock (Stein), a notch or cleft (Scharte) and the summit (Kopf). Over the last century the peak has become a distinctive waypoint for ridge-traverses in the Allgäu Alps and a popular objective for seasoned hikers. The area is maintained and described by alpine clubs and local authorities; for administrative information see Tyrol references: Tyrol mountain information and Austrian hiking portals: Austrian alpine resources.

Practical considerations and notable facts

• Elevation: 2,615 m (8,579 ft); it is among the higher summits in the Allgäu and is often listed as the sixth tallest peak in the range.
• Trail importance: the summit is the highest point of the Heilbronn Way and is a highlight of that high alpine route.
• Difficulty: sections can be exposed and require sure-footedness, appropriate footwear and alpine experience; conditions change rapidly above the tree line.
• Nearby facilities: the Heilbronn Way links several mountain huts and emergency refuges frequented by walkers and climbers.

Visitors planning to cross or climb Steinschartenkopf should consult current route descriptions, weather forecasts and alpine club advice before setting out. For maps, guiding services and conservation rules see the regional references provided above: map, range overview, nearby peaks, Tyrol guides, Austrian resources and Heilbronn Way information.