Climbing at the Kraftwand in the Allgäu

Climbers on the Kraftwand near Bad Hindelang — The Kraftwand, the Oberallgäu locals' after-work climbing crag

"Small but mighty" best describes the Kraftwand. For the Oberallgäu locals, it is a popular after-work climbing crag, with a short approach of about ten minutes. In addition to long, slightly overhanging endurance routes, there are some easier options for working your way up the wall.

At a glance

Routes: 30 routes from 5 to 8; about 10 routes in the right section of the wall at grade 6
Protection: Bolts, draws with carabiners
Gear: 50-meter single rope, 12 quickdraws
Orientation: Northwest, ideal on hot days, stays damp longer after rain
Approach: approx. 10 minutes from the parking lot

Character

Everything from flat slabs and large overhangs to steep wall climbing is on offer. In the more difficult routes, the crucial holds are already clearly polished, and the hardest lines feature mandatory sections. The right, slightly shorter section of the wall, with about ten routes at grade 6, is also suitable for beginners.

The Kraftwand faces northwest and is therefore ideal for hot midsummer days. After rainfall, the rock remains damp for longer. The Weihar, the largest climbing area in the region, can be reached in about ten minutes via a well-trodden path. Along the way, boulders lie nestled in mossy patches.

Starting point and approach

From Bad Hindelang, take the pass road up towards Oberjoch. About halfway along, there is a small parking lot on the left (signpost for Hirschalpe).

At the parking lot, cross over a wooden fence onto the alpine pasture. A faintly trodden path leads slightly to the right through a wooded area with marshy pasture to a rockfall fence, from there straight up to the wall. About ten minutes from the parking lot.