Riffenkopf, Mountain summit in Bavaria, Germany

Riffenkopf is a 1,748-metre summit in the Allgäu Alps, the first distinct peak on the ridge running west-northwest from the Höfats and separating the Oy and Dietersbach valleys. It is covered with mountain pine up to the top, and no marked trail leads there.

The mountain sits between the Oy and Dietersbach valleys, where traditional alpine farming and hunting have shaped the landscape for generations. Its position influenced how local communities historically used this mountain region.

The name Riffenkopf is considered incorrect by Thaddäus Steiner, who argues for Riefenkopf, matching the dialect form with -ie- and naming tradition. The name likely derives from a hay meadow (Hoibat) documented in tax books between 1637 and 1728 as Rieffenschwandt, Rüffenschwandt and Rüeffen Schwand, and from Elspet Rüefin, recorded in 1482 as a resident at the foot of the mountain.

The ascent demands alpine hiking experience and solid navigation skills, as only unmarked hunting trails and game paths offer access. Visitors should be well equipped for changing weather and snow conditions typical at this elevation.

The name Riffenkopf is considered incorrect by name researcher Thaddäus Steiner; the mountain was recorded as Riefenkopf in the 1819 survey sheet, and a 1482 document names Elspet Rüefin as a resident at its foot.