Ofen (2873m)

Route: Nieder Alp, Grischsattel (and Ofen), Alp Nagens

Difficulty: T3

Climb: 1400m

Time: 6 hours (breaks included)

Photo Album

This was a vaguely planned walk towards Grischsattel. Possible options included Mittaghorn (aka Mittetaghorn), Piz Grisch (aka Laaxer Stockli) and Ofen, with two possible routes to Piz Grisch, either from the west or via Grischsattel. We were also unsure of whether to cross to Grisons or go back to Elm.

The Martinsmad-hole

The difficulty of the routes was unclear, as my 2004 guidebook said that MIttaghorn was a T5, and not to be attempted when wet. However, hikr reports said that it was a T4. We then discovered that in 2007, the route was fitted with cables, substantially lowering the difficulty.

View from the hut

We took the convenient lift from Elm to Nideren. This is quite spectacular, as it flies over deep gorges. We then walked for about an hour to the very impressive and well-maintained Martinsmad hut. The way there presents no difficulties, apart from the sheep.

The steepest section of the path to the saddle

Final path to the saddle

The way south-east to Grischsattel is first through a grassy field. This is followed by a long slog through shale, which was quite muddy, as it had rained a lot overnight. The steepest parts of the route are well secured via a cable, and so the hike qualifies as at most a T3; especially in dry conditions. One hour later, the path flattens out and one can follow the wide ridge to Grischsattel and then Ofen.

Ofen

The views from Ofen are spectacular, especially of the imposing Tschienglihornen.

It is also possible to attempt a direct ascent of Piz Grisch from Grischsattel (T4). We debated the correct route for quite some time before realising that we should rush to get the bus from Nagens.

The way to Nagens was straightforward, with a mild decline that made fast movement effortless.  When we got there, we had a nasty surprise: (1) there were too many people waiting to fit in the bus and (2) the bus down the valley cost 15 CHF (!). Still, it's worthwhile to visit the Grisons side, if only to enjoy the spectacular views of the mountain range. I think it would also make for an excellent easy ski tour.