The via Ferrata Donnerkogel featuring the "Ladder to heaven" is definitely one of the most beautiful ferratas in the Salzkammergut

The attraction stairway to heaven here in Gosau at Dachstein, is part of the via ferrata Donnerkogel, which is between the Zwieselalm Area and the summit of the Donnerkogel.

The hike to the via ferrata is not long it just takes about 15 Minutes from the top station of the Gosaukammbahn, the climb itself takes between 3 and 4 hours depending on you speed and experience in climbing via ferratas.
Total time with descent between 5 and 6 hours.

The via Ferrata is graded C/D, very difficult, on the via Ferrata scale, climbers have to be experienced when doing it. Hiking down from the top of Donnerkogel will last for about 1 ½ hours. If you are a beginner, it is definitely recommeded for you to take a guided tour, by one of our mountain guides.

Route description via ferrata Donnerkogel

1st stage: From the entrance, climb briefly to a corner (B/C). A beautiful traverse of slabs (A/B) leads to a straddle (B/C). This is followed by the steep and challenging "Kaiser-Verschneidung" (C/D), one of the two key sections. Then left onto an earthy strip (A and A/B) and to another, somewhat more difficult slab traverse (C). Around a corner it goes to the "Enzianwand" (B/C). The trail leads up through the mountain pines in a zigzag course and then to a saddle on the left. There is an emergency exit (down on the right). The "Ziehkögelgrat" (max. A/B) is reached via two ladders (B, briefly C in between). At the end of the 1st stage there is another emergency exit (down to the right).

2nd stage: In the section "Long live the hunt" you first cross to the left (A/B). This is followed by some ladders laid on the ground (A). Another traverse (A) is followed by some upturns (B). After the "Gamsband" (A) you have to climb down a bit in the earthy-slippery terrain (A/B). Then the long traverse climbs again (A/B, short section B/C) and meets the 40-metre giant ladder. At the ladder, you can exit to easy terrain and bypass the "Donnermandl" or climb down to the descent path (emergency descent). The highlight is of course the 40-metre giant ladder, on which you can climb directly over to the "Donnermandl" easily (B) but very exposed and therefore considered by many to be more difficult.

Stage 3 without the giant ladder: After a short walking area (emergency descent to the right), there is a short traverse (A/B and C) and the steep and very exposed ascent - where the 40-metre giant ladder also docks with the "Donnermandl" - (first C/D, then easier) to the "Donnermandl" (1,920 m). This is the second key section of the climb (this must also be mastered by giant ladder climbers). Afterwards, briefly climb down into a saddle (B). The 3rd stage can also be bypassed.

Stage 4: Quite steep up the former "Preuß route" via the northwest ridge (C). Soon the ridge becomes flatter and wider (B). The exit is reached after overcoming individual steep steps (A/B and A).

Safely on the via ferrata!
Tour planning:

A requirement for every climbing tour is an accurate tour planning with a via ferrata guide and map.
Pay attention to the levels of difficulty of the via ferrata and do not overestimate your ability!
Find out about the weather situation and the current conditions for the ascent and descent.
Draw up a timetable for the ascent, via ferrata, descent and always plan a time reserve for possible emergencies.

Note in bad weather:

Via ferrata routes are dangerous in bad weather, as the wire rope anchorages can become lightning rods.
Information on the current Dachstein weather can be found at Dachstein weather forecast.
In spring, you have to reckon with leftover snow on the via ferrata.

Make sure you use the right equipment:

Check your equipment for safety defects before every climbing tour!
The complete climbing equipment consists of: Helmet, chest harness, seat harness and carabiners, via ferrata gloves, climbing shoes and suitable climbing clothing.
Take emergency equipment with you: First aid kit, bivouac sack, mobile phone!

Via ferrata ascent:

You should only climb via ferratas if you are familiar with your equipment and know how to use it.
Partner check before you start! Check each other's equipment to make sure it is complete and correctly fitted.
During the climb, always keep an eye on the weather, your physical condition and the time schedule.
Watch out for other climbers and plan time for overtaking.
You can also find important tips for tour planning and behaviour on the via ferrata in the "Alpenvereinaktiv-App".
Don't subordinate everything to the entry in the summit book or the completion of a tour - have the courage to break off or turn back!

In case of emergency call the mountain rescue under 140

Download the via ferrata guide of Bad Goisern, Gosau at Dachstein, Hallstatt and Obertraun.

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