OverviewThe Schächentaler Windgällen overlooks the Klausenpaß near Altdorf within view of the Groß Windgälle and Clariden. Comprised of a long ridge with 2 summits, the higher peak is also labeled as Höch Windgälle on the topo map. The peak is usually climbed from the road in one day and can, in fact be done using public transportation from Zürich in one day, but you cannot tarry! As such, Walter Pause (renowned author of many alpine books from the 1950's to the early 1980's), considered Schächentaler Windgällen a Hausberg (home mountain) of Zürich.
The peak is composed of limestone and on the approach from the Ruosalper Chulm one crosses interesting karst terrain. It was first climbed by Huber and Imholz-Brunneler in 1883.
Getting ThereOne can take the train via Luzern to Altdorf. From there take a Postbus east up the Schächental to the switchback immediately west of Klausenpass (1948m), at Balm. One can also drive and park at the pass or in the vicinty of the switchback, 40 minutes drive from Altdorf. There is a hotel/restaurant near the pass. From there one hikes over trail to the Ruosalper Chulm. At this saddle, one bears west over karst terraces towards the mountain.
Another, longer approach starts from the village of Ulrigen, west of the pass, and goes up through Mettenen.
Routes OverviewThe main route usually taken is the SE ridge. Scrambling and easy UIAA II (YDS Class 4) climbing along the south shoulder and SE ridge brings one to the summit in about 31/2 hours from the pass. Several chains have been placed along several points on the route. A huge iron cross adorns the summit and there is a summit register. In August 2003, the register box was empty.
Several sport climbing routes have also been developed.
As some of the submitted photos witness, the area is great for ski touring as well.
AccommodationsThere is no hut for this climb. There are numerous hotels and pensions in Altdorf and the villages along the pass road. Reservations are advised. Camping is also available.
ConditionsSee Meteo Swiss for current weather, avalanche and other conditions throughout Switzerland.
The following webcam will give current conditions as well.
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