Grubereck is the first high mountain on the eastern side of the Rauris valley which meant that despite its relatively modest height would have excellent views to the north, south and west. We didn’t start as early as we would have liked, as the first bus on the weekend was surprisingly late, which meant we had a very hot ascent up to the peak.

Initially on the ascent we had fleeting views over alpine meadows looking north into the larger mountains towards the end of the Rauristal on the way up to the Bründlalm. From here the ascent became very steep and relentless, but we eventually emerged out onto the grassy summit ridge where the views really opened up and became really enjoyable.

We were shocked to arrive at the summit and find a very civilised bench with a table, which made it an obvious spot for some lunch, it was just a shame about the flies due to the lack of wind. From the summit we descended to the Karalm, where I was really looking forward to a stop for a cold drink and maybe some cake, however we had to decide between stopping and then either having an hour walk back up the valley to the campsite, or waiting 2.5 hrs for a bus in Rauris, or to make a quick descent in time for the 16:00 bus. We elected for the quick descent so that we could have a chilled out evening at the campsite, which we made in good time.

Ascending with a view up Rauristal up to Mitterkarkopf
Wonderful views south towards the main alpine ridge
Alpine meadows, glacial valleys and big mountains
Emerging from the forest with a view of the big mountains
Looking into the Pinzgau
On the grassy ascent to Grubereck
Looking north to the Steineres Meer and Hochkönigstock
Summit views of the Steinernes Meer and Hochkönigstock
Looking towards the Großglockner from the summit
Grubereck Summit Selfie
Descending from Grubereck looking towards Kramkogel
Descending from Grubereck looking up Seidlwinkltal