Northwest Ridge

The Hintergrat is the classic and most frequently documented alpine route on Ortles. It is a long mixed ridge climb with sustained exposure and sections of scrambling on rock, snow, and ice. The route is generally considered the standard ascent from the south side and is much more serious than a simple glacier walk. Objective hazards include rockfall, hard snow, and rapidly changing weather. Route-finding can be complex in poor visibility, especially on the upper ridge. It is typically climbed with an overnight stay at the Hintergrathütte or a bivouac to break up the ascent.

The north face of Ortles is a serious alpine face route and one of the mountain's major classic lines. It is steeper and more committing than the normal ridge route, with sustained snow and ice climbing. Conditions on the face vary greatly with season and temperature, and the route can become dangerous from avalanche or icefall. It requires solid crampon and ice-axe technique, plus good judgment in route selection. The line is typically undertaken by experienced alpinists in stable conditions. Because of its seriousness, it is less commonly climbed than the normal ridge route.