Hochgall, Mountain summit in Val Pusteria, South Tyrol.
Hochgall, also known as Monte Collalto, is a mountain peak standing at 3,436 meters in the Vedrette di Ries Group. It represents the highest elevation point between South and East Tyrol.
The first recorded ascent of Hochgall took place in 1854 when pilot officer Hermann van Acken climbed to the peak via the northeast ridge. This early climb marked the beginning of the mountain's modern mountaineering history.
The German name Hochgall comes from Old High German and means "bright mountain", while the Italian population calls the peak Monte Collalto. The two names reflect the bilingual character of this mountain region.
Two main routes lead to the summit: one from Riva di Tures via Kasseler Mountain Hut and another from East Tyrol through Barmer Mountain Hut. The best season for climbing is late spring through early autumn when the routes are most accessible.
The north wall presents technical climbing challenges with constantly changing ice conditions due to temperature shifts over recent decades. Climbers encounter variable conditions that demand careful observation and experience.
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