Arete des Spitzkopf
The arete des Spitzopf is a long, enjoyable and exposed ridge on excellent granite in the heart of the Vosges. The views are magnificent. Although never very difficult, most people will be glad of a rope. However, only a minimum of gear is necessary, making this, in good weather, an excellent lightweight scramble. Take a rope betweeen 30m and 50m , a few long slings, and a couple of large nuts or friends, there are no bolts. It is also a worthwhile winter climb, when conditions allow.
Park at the Auberge du Pied du Hohneck. Walk up the hill towards the summit of Le Hohneck and after 20m turn right to take the path that goes up to the col de Wormsel before descending almost to Lac de Schiessrothried. Just before reaching the lake a signposted path leads off right to Spitzkopf. Follow this to the belvedere. The climb starts here, about 45 minutes from the road.
Walk up above the belvedere past a sign indicating the start, on a steep, not very nice path. Follow the red dots on the trees for a few hundred metres until it is possible to climb left onto the arete proper, where the nature of the terrain changes dramatically from steep dead leaves to beautiful granite. The scrambling proper starts here. Keep following the arete and crampon scratches, past one particularly steep descent, until you arrive again near the top of the col de Wormsel. Many of the difficult sections are escapable on the right hand (north) side of the ridge.
Map of scrambles and alpine climbs
Photos (click for full view)
