Has anyone tried these hiking/climbing paths called Klettersteig? I found one just outside of Oberwesel (where we are staying) and my sons are keen to try it. How difficult are they? Is special equipment required or can you just show up and hike whenever you want? Any info would be appreciated. Thanks!
Posted by
Seattle, WA
16333 posts
These are "secured climbing path", not hiking trails. It is more like easy rock climbing. You wear a harnees with two carabiners, and clip in to the cable for safety. Also wear a helmet. There are several on the Alpspitze (Garmisch-partenkirchen) that are really fun and worth gooing out of your way for. The one across the face of the Alpspitze does not require gear; you can hold on to the cable but it is a good safe path. Theer is also one going up to th esummit that my son went partway on; everyone doing that had harnesses and helmets.
Posted by
OP
Sammamish, WA
403 posts
Thanks, Lola. The ones I'm looking at are in the Rhineland. Do you know if they are similar to the ones in the Alps?
Posted by
Seattle, WA
16333 posts
Maybe they are not as high off the ground (not as far to fall?) See if you can find YouTube footage showing people on them, or photos.
Posted by
Calgary
2297 posts
"Klettersteige" do vary in difficulty. From the information on the website below it sounds like the Oelsbergsteig (Oberwesel) is a bit easier and more like a hiking trail with a couple of ladders thrown in. You only need good hiking shoes for this one. According to the German reviews I've read this is definitely a worthwhile hike with some spectacular views, including THE best view of the Lorely. http://www.sankt-goar-oberwesel.de/tourismus/wandern/klettersteig-oelsberg.htm