Ötztaler Wildspitze (3768 m) over the southern flank of Vent

We start on the ski piste directly at the 2-seater chairlift and follow it to the Stableinalm at approx. 2,400 metres. Another short steep section next to the drag lift, then follow the blue piste 2 to the left into the Rofenkar below the Breslauer Hütte. It is best to bypass the steep slope up to the Breslauer Hütte directly under the material cable car - this is also a wonderful orientation aid in fog. From the hut, head north-westwards slightly uphill into the Mitterkarkar cirque to the Mitterkarferner. At the very end, keep to the right and through the steep gully - with rope insurance on the rock in the upper section - up to the Mitterkarjoch. Do not continue directly along the ridge, but descend gently via the Taschachferner to the almost always well-groomed normal route from the Mittelbergjoch. In a generous left-hand loop, we bypass the large crevasse zone and reach the ski depot on the south-west ridge after another flat section.

The best way to overcome the combined terrain on the summit structure is with crampons. A short UIAA II section directly below the summit cross. The ascent via the ridge from the north summit is a worthwhile alternative if the snow conditions are good. With this variant, you can even take your skis with you to the summit cross and then ski back down via the north-west flank.

The descent via the south flank offers several entry points. The direct south couloir is probably the most challenging entrance (60° at approx. 20 metres and usually very steep). An easier option is located approx. 150 metres to the right (southwest). In this variant, you cross approx. 100 metres below the direct entrance from the right into the south couloir and thus avoid the steepest section and also the cornice. Then in a fall line and slowly becoming flatter and flatter through the flank directly into the Mitterkar. From there along the ascent route, past the Breslauer Hütte, back to the Vent ski area. A nice, albeit somewhat touristy refreshment stop at the Stableinalm.

If you are not looking for a steep face adventure, or if the conditions do not allow you to ski the south flank, you will have to return the entire ascent route via the Mitterkarjoch - you should allow about ½ hour more time for this. If you are travelling by public transport, the dream descent via the Taschachferner to Mittelberg/Mandarfen would even be a possible alternative.