Via ferratas on the Rigidalstock near Engelberg Titlis

Ascent:

From the mountain station of the chairlift next to the Brunnihütte, we ascend via the blue-white-blue marked hiking trail (signposted "Rigidal via ferrata"). Alternatively, we can also reach Schonegg via the Brunnistöckli via ferrata or the Zittergrat via ferrata. Now we keep left on the meadow ridge and ascend over a slope ridge called "Uf den Stucklenen" (2180 m). The markings (blue-white) lead us through blocky terrain to the rugged slope below the south ridge of the Rigidalstock. There the paths diverge, we keep right and reach the entrance to the Rigidalstock face.

Route:

From the entrance, we cross a simple traverse to a gully, then ascend through slabby terrain to an overhang. With an excellent difficulty rating of D, this is the key section of the route. Then it continues easier over a slab to a small resting bench, then through a small cave up to the "Eagles' Nest." There we meet the route coming up from the Rigidalstock ridge, which we later descend. But first, a few more secured sections lie ahead to the summit. For the descent, we initially descend back to the junction. Now we descend not via the Rigidalstock face but via the ridge. To do this, we keep left on the scree ridge and climb over iron rungs on a 30 m high and quite steep slab. Cable protections then lead us down over tiered rock to the ridge and further down through a gully. At the end, it goes over a ledge to the exit.

Descent:

The marked path leads back to Schonegg and we then descend in a few minutes the steep grassy slope back to the Brunnihütte.

Via ferrata equipment with rockfall helmet and via ferrata gloves.

The via ferrata is suitable for experienced via ferrata climbers, sure-footedness, a head for heights, and arm strength are required. It is recommended to check the current weather report for the destination region.

Note: In poor visibility, orientation can be challenging.