With 3580m, the Galenstock is Uri’s third highest peak (the highest one is the Dammastock). The peak is relatively “easy” to climb in late spring or early summer once the Furka pass is open to Hotel Tiefenbach (2100m). However, the peak requires some rock climbing (grade 2) and has a very steep top North ridge which can be tricky when its icy.
Great late-spring tour: The peak can be climbed usually until June)! You might have to carry the skis for half an hour from the parking lot at the pass road. But is definitively worth the effort. I have climbed this peak three times and I was never disappointed!
The Galenstock offers phantastic (!) views and some high alpine feeling including some climbing (from the glacier to the North ridge) and – for the daring ones – steep descents. One can ski down directly from the top towards East down to the glacier (pretty extreme) or from the Galenstock North ridge (40 to 45 degrees, steep but ok in safe conditions and if snow overhang is not large) . Check out the map below (red = ascent, green = descent) and the picture gallery. An alternative access to Galenstock is from the West over the Rhone glacier. Klein Bielenhorn is an alternative, easier ski touring target.
Caution: The glacier East of Galenstock has some crevasses! Crampons and ice axe are strongly recommended for this tour. The North ridge is quite exposed!
Picture gallery:
swisspowder.net 