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 at a Glance#
Address: Hochfeiler (Zillertal Alps), South Tyrol/Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy (peak area)
About Hochfeiler#
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.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Poor | -14° - -10° | -23° | 120 mm | partly cloudy | 92% | 9.3 m/s | 0.1 low | 8.9h |
| February | Poor | -15° - -10° | -23° | 110 mm | partly cloudy | 93% | 8.4 m/s | 0.3 low | 10.2h |
| March | Poor | -14° - -9° | -21° | 141 mm | partly cloudy | 90% | 8.1 m/s | 0.7 moderate | 11.8h |
| April | Poor | -11° - -7° | -18° | 140 mm | overcast | 82% | 7.2 m/s | 1.0 high | 13.4h |
| May | Poor | -6° - -2° | -11° | 123 mm | overcast | 80% | 6.4 m/s | 1.4 high | 14.8h |
| June | Poor | -4° - 2° | -6° | 143 mm | overcast | 79% | 5.8 m/s | 1.6 very high | 15.6h |
| July | Poor | -1° - 4° | -3° | 157 mm | partly cloudy | 80% | 5.7 m/s | 1.7 very high | 15.2h |
| August | Poor | 0° - 5° | -3° | 145 mm | partly cloudy | 81% | 5.4 m/s | 1.4 high | 14.0h |
| September | Poor | -3° - 2° | -6° | 111 mm | partly cloudy | 84% | 6.3 m/s | 1.0 moderate | 12.4h |
| October | Poor | -5° - -2° | -11° | 102 mm | partly cloudy | 86% | 7.7 m/s | 0.5 moderate | 10.7h |
| November | Poor | -10° - -6° | -17° | 134 mm | partly cloudy | 90% | 8.6 m/s | 0.2 low | 9.3h |
| December | Poor | -13° - -8° | -20° | 128 mm | partly cloudy | 91% | 9.3 m/s | 0.1 low | 8.5h |
