A quiet mountain lake, narrow high-altitude trails and finally the view from 3,132 metres: the hike to the Wilde Kreuzspitze is one of the most impressive mountain tours in the Gitschberg Jochtal Alpine Region. Right now is the best time to experience this special summit.
Those who seek not only relaxation in the mountains, but also a true challenge, will find it on the way to the Wilde Kreuzspitze. At 3,132 metres, it is one of the most striking peaks in the region and a rewarding destination for experienced hikers with good stamina.
This tour is also something very special for our hostess. She is always delighted when guests set off in the morning full of anticipation and return to Panorama Living Dolomites in the evening with sparkling eyes, tired legs and countless impressions.
Now is the best time for the summit tour
The months of July and August usually offer the best conditions for a hike to the Wilde Kreuzspitze. The trails are generally free of snow, the days are long and the temperatures at higher altitudes are pleasantly mild.
However, you should not wait too long to plan this tour: above 3,000 metres, the first snow can already arrive again in September. So if you would still like to experience the Wilde Kreuzspitze this summer, choose a stable weather day and start early in the morning.
Starting point: the mountain village of Fane Alm
From Panorama Living Dolomites, you first drive by car to Vals. It is best not to park directly in the village, but to continue up to the upper car park near the Fane Alm. This saves valuable time and energy, which you will certainly appreciate during the long ascent.
The Fane Alm is considered one of the most beautiful alpine villages in South Tyrol. Small wooden huts, green alpine meadows and rushing mountain streams create an atmospheric start to the summit tour ahead.
From here, follow hiking trail no. 18 towards the Labesebenhütte.
Via the Labesebenhütte to the Wilder See
The trail leads steadily uphill through the unspoilt mountain landscape of the Valsertal Valley. Passing the Labesebenhütte, you reach the Wilder See at 2,532 metres after approximately three and a half hours.
It is well worth taking a longer break here. With a depth of around 46 metres, the Wilder See is considered the deepest mountain lake in South Tyrol. Nestled between rugged peaks, its clear water shines deep blue or turquoise depending on the light – a quiet, almost magical place at the foot of the Wilde Kreuzspitze. At the same time, this is the perfect spot to gather new strength for the most demanding section of the hike.
Over the Rumbaljoch to the Wilde Kreuzspitze
From the Wilder See, a narrow path continues upwards to the Rumbaljoch. Surefootedness, a head for heights and mountain experience are absolutely essential on this section.
You then ascend to the Wilde Kreuzspitze via the south-eastern flank. After a total of around five hours, you reach the summit at 3,132 metres.
Once at the top, a wide view opens out over the Pfunderer Mountains and the surrounding South Tyrolean mountain world. After the long ascent, this moment is usually especially intense: the silence, the clear mountain air and the feeling of having reached a real 3,000-metre peak under your own power.
Descent via the ascent route or the Brixner Hütte
For the way back, you can choose the same route you already know from the ascent.
Alternatively, a varied route leads down through the Rauhtal Valley. From there, you reach the Pfunderer Höhenweg and continue on to the Brixner Hütte. The trail then leads back to the Fane Alm.
For the entire tour, you should allow at least seven and a half hours, depending on the descent option you choose and your personal pace.
All tour details at a glance
Starting point: Upper car park near the Fane Alm in Vals
Summit: Wilde Kreuzspitze, 3,132 m
Altitude of the Wilder See: 2,532 m
Walking time to the summit: approximately 5 hours
Total walking time: at least 7.5 hours
Difficulty: challenging
Suitable for: experienced, fit and surefooted mountain hikers
Recommended season: high summer in stable weather conditions
Well prepared for the 3,000-metre peak
For this hike, you will need sturdy mountain boots, enough water and provisions, warm clothing, as well as rain and sun protection. Even in high summer, the weather can change quickly at this altitude.
Be sure to check the current weather conditions before you start and set off early. If the weather is uncertain, the tour should be postponed.
After the summit, back to your own private retreat
After a long day in the mountains, there is hardly anything more beautiful than returning to your own apartment, taking off your hiking boots and putting your tired legs up. Perhaps your private sauna is already waiting for you – and beyond the large windows, once again, the view of the very mountain world you crossed just a few hours earlier.
The Wilde Kreuzspitze is not a casual hike for in between. It is a true mountain experience that requires stamina and stays in your memory for a long time. And that is exactly why our hostess is always especially pleased when guests discover this summit during their stay with us, as she herself climbs the Wilde Kreuzspitze every year.
Journal 
Newsletter 
Weather 
