The high plateau of Plätzwiese serves as the starting point for this hike. During the summer months, a shuttle bus brings you up from Brückele/Prags between 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM. Before 9:30 AM, the road to Plätzwiese can also be accessed by private car for a toll fee, if parking spaces are available. (Important: Check the traffic restrictions in the Pragser Valley between July 10 and September 10.)

At the Plätzwiese hut, turn left and follow the path to the signposted trail junction. From there, the trail continues uphill across open fields, passing through lonely mountain pines and the last small trees above the tree line. The ascent follows the sun-drenched southern side of the Dürrenstein, gradually gaining elevation. After nearly three hours, the summit cross finally comes into view, separated only by a steep but secured section of the trail. Once at the top, a breathtaking panorama unfolds: the famous Drei Zinnen (Three Peaks), the striking Hohe Gaisl to the west of the Plätzwiese, the distant Monte Pelmo, and the imposing Rieserferner group. On clear days, the view even extends to the Großvenediger.

The descent follows the same route back.

Braies, Brückele car park - 25 km from the hotel
Prato Piazza car park - 30 km from the hotel

Start: car park Plätzwiese
Höhenmeter: 870 m
Length: 9 km
Hiking time: 5h