Hochfeiler
Mountain Highest peak of Zillertal Alps on Italy-Austria border
In Trentino-Alto Adige, Hochfeiler (Gran Pilastro) is an Alpine peak frequented by mountaineers and ski-tourers for long glacier routes and high-altitude huts.
Hochfeiler, also known by its Italian name Gran Pilastro, is a mountain in the Zillertal Alps located on the border between South Tyrol (Italy) and Tyrol (Austria). It is the highest summit of the Zillertal Alps.
Alpine mountaineers and hikers approach via glaciated and rocky routes; the mountain is notable for its prominent summit and long views over surrounding Alpine ranges. Routes involve steep alpine terrain and are typically undertaken in summer with appropriate equipment.
The peak has been a destination for alpinists since the 19th century during the period of Alpine exploration, and it features in regional mountaineering literature as the Zillertal Alps’ highest point.
Hochfeiler sits on the Italy-Austria border within the Central Eastern Alps, in the Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol region of northern Italy and adjacent Tyrol in Austria.
- Elevation: Summit elevation is 3,510 metres, making it the highest peak of the Zillertal Alps.
How to Get to Hochfeiler #
Approach routes vary from the Ahrntal/Val di Aurina or Zillertal valleys, depending on the chosen ascent. Local mountain huts provide route advice; travel typically requires regional driving to trailheads and experience in alpine navigation.
Tips for Visiting Hochfeiler #
- Prepare for high-altitude weather and bring a map and proper mountain equipment
- Check local hut and weather conditions if planning a multi-day ascent
- Summer is the best season for climbing; avoid late-season storms and early snow
Best Time to Visit Hochfeiler #
Summer months provide the most reliable conditions for alpine ascents and access to mountain huts.
Weather & Climate near Hochfeiler #
Hochfeiler's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with cold summers (peaking in August) and freezing winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from -15°C to 4°C. Abundant rainfall (1554 mm/year), wettest in July, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is freezing with highs of -10°C and lows of -14°C. Significant rainfall (120 mm), partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
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February
February is the coldest month with highs of -10°C and lows of -15°C. Significant rainfall (110 mm), partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
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March
March is freezing with highs of -9°C and lows of -14°C. Significant rainfall (141 mm), partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
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April
April is freezing with highs of -7°C and lows of -11°C. Significant rainfall (140 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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May
May is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -6°C. Significant rainfall (123 mm), mostly overcast skies, and breezy conditions.
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June
June is freezing with highs of 2°C and lows of -4°C. Significant rainfall (143 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -1°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (157 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of 0°C. Significant rainfall (145 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is freezing with highs of 2°C and lows of -3°C. Significant rainfall (111 mm), partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
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October
October is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -5°C. Significant rainfall (102 mm), partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
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November
November is freezing with highs of -6°C and lows of -10°C. Significant rainfall (134 mm), partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
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December
December is freezing with highs of -8°C and lows of -13°C. Significant rainfall (128 mm), partly cloudy skies, and breezy conditions.
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