Alpspitze, Limestone summit in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany

The Alpspitze is a 2,628-metre mountain in the Wetterstein range of the Northern Limestone Alps, built mainly of Upper Triassic Wetterstein limestone. Its pyramidal peak rises above Garmisch-Partenkirchen as a steep, heavily fractured face of pale grey rock, with slabs, ridges and deep vertical gullies. The Alpspitze Cable Car runs from Garmisch-Partenkirchen to the Osterfelderkopf at 2,033 metres, where the fixed-rope routes begin.

The 1946 summit cross was erected by Richard Weber and Kaspar Jocher with the Kolpingsfamilie Garmisch; commemorative plaques were added for its 25th and 50th anniversaries. The Alpspitze is climbed today via the Alpspitz-Ferrata from the Osterfelderkopf (2,033 m), about two hours, or via the North Face route through the Oberkar cirque. The Jubiläumsgrat traverse to the Zugspitze involves UIAA grade III sections.

The summit cross was erected in 1946 by Richard Weber and Kaspar Jocher together with the Kolpingsfamilie of Garmisch, a Catholic lay association. Commemorative plaques were fixed to the cross for its 25th and 50th anniversaries. The peak's pyramid shape makes it the symbol of Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Visiting is possible year-round, though summer months offer the best conditions for hiking and climbing. Sturdy footwear and a head for heights are essential, as the routes involve steep paths and exposed sections in places.

A viewing platform features two crossed metal walkways extending about 13 meters out over a cliff edge. Walking across this structure creates an unusual sensation of stepping out into empty space above the valley.