​trail description: The way-marked path to Birkkarspitze Peak starts right next to Karwendelhaus Lodge. This trail starts off very steep and you’ll make your way around and up the cliffs assisted by a fixed anchoring system of cables. The rugged terrain leads through dwarf pines and avalanche barriers. The next stage of the trail is not as steep as the previous. It leads to the southeast towards Schlauchkar Cirque that seems to be never-ending. You will pass a trail that branches off towards Hochalmkreuz Cross (to the left) and another fork that leads to Brendelsteig Path (to the right). Do not change directions here and continue the path uphill through the cirque. This is a demanding trail that takes you through rough, rugged terrain dotted by rock cairns. The path continues upward at a character-building grade with the last section towards Schlauchkarsattel Saddleback leading to the southwest. At this stage you usually have to cross a (frequently very hard) snowfield. The best thing to do is to follow the footsteps. From Schlauchkarsattel Saddleback (elev. 2,639m), walk past Birkkar Refuge and climb along the western ridge on a demanding trail that is assisted by a fixed anchoring system of cables. You will