Normal route via the Gletscherweg and the southwest ridge

This is the standard and best-known ascent of Hochalmspitze. It is an alpine mixed route with glacier travel and short rocky sections rather than a pure hiking path. The difficulties are generally moderate, but conditions on the glacier and in the upper snow/ice slopes can change the seriousness significantly. Route-finding is important in poor visibility, especially on the glacier approach and near the ridge. The route is commonly treated as the normal way to the summit in alpine guidebooks. A rope, glacier equipment, and basic alpine experience are typically required.