Skywalk Klettersteig (C/D) – An incredible Aerial Adventure in Vorarlberg.

Perched high above the village of Dornbirn in Vorarlberg, Austria’s westernmost state, the Skywalk Klettersteig is a thrilling experience that lives up to its name. This tough via ferrata, rated C/D, is one of the most scenic and accessible alpine climbing routes in the region. Suspended above the Rappenlochschlucht gorge, it offers dramatic exposure, well-secured climbing sections, and a heart-pounding suspension bridge.It is all framed by stunning views of the Bregenzerwald mountains and Lake Constance.

This route is an ideal challenge for intermediate climbers looking to up their game, and for experienced adventurers who want a short but action-packed climb in a jaw-dropping setting.

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Route Overview

Location: Karren mountain near Dornbirn, Vorarlberg
Difficulty: C/D (moderate to difficult)
Vertical Gain: Approx. 150 meters
Climbing Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
Approach Time: 30 minutes (from Karren cable car)
Descent Time: 30–40 minutes
Best Season: May to October

Getting There

Dornbirn is easily accessible by road or rail from major cities in western Austria, Switzerland, and southern Germany.

By Car: Drive to Dornbirn and park at the base of the Karren cable car.
By Train: The Dornbirn train station is a hub for regional and international trains. From the station, it’s a short taxi ride or a bus to the Karren lift.

Once at the cable car base, ride the Karrenbahn to the mountain station. From there, a well-marked trail leads through lush forest and open meadows to the via ferrata’s entry point. The approach is pleasant and scenic, taking about 30 minutes.

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Climbing the Skywalk Klettersteig

Start Section (B to C)

The climb begins just beneath the popular Karren Panorama Restaurant, but it quickly transports you into a vertical world of solitude and concentration. The first segment is rated B to C, giving you time to warm up. Solid iron rungs and a sturdy wire cable provide support as you ascend the initial rocky wall.

As the exposure increases, so do the rewards. You’re soon greeted with jaw-dropping views over the Rappenlochschlucht, a deep, forested gorge carved by glacial meltwater over millennia.

Main Climbing Section (C/D)

After the warm-up, the real action begins. The C/D-rated section traverses a nearly vertical limestone face with minimal ledges. Here, climbers need both upper body strength and confident footwork. The exposure is intense—hundreds of meters of air below your boots—but the route is well-maintained, and the fixed equipment is in excellent condition.

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The highlights of this section include:

A long vertical climb with minimal breaks
A scenic traverse that clings to the cliff face
Short overhangs requiring strong arms and good movement technique

This portion of the route is not overly long, but it’s consistently challenging and demands sustained focus. Those with a fear of heights will need to steady their nerves, as the route seems to float high above the valley floor.

Skywalk Bridge and Final Climb

The centerpiece of the route—and what gives the Skywalk Klettersteig its name—is the spectacular suspension bridge that links two sheer rock faces high above the gorge. The bridge is narrow, gently swaying, and incredibly scenic, offering a 360-degree panorama of the Rhine Valley, Lake Constance, and even the distant peaks of Switzerland.

Crossing the bridge is an unforgettable moment—equal parts nerve-wracking and exhilarating.

After the bridge, a final C-rated climb leads you up a short wall to the route’s exit near the upper hiking trails. Here, you can catch your breath and enjoy sweeping views over Dornbirn and the surrounding alpine terrain.

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Descent Options

From the exit, it’s a short hike (about 30–40 minutes) back to the Karren mountain station. You can either:

Take the cable car back to Dornbirn, which is recommended for most climbers, especially after a long or hot day.
Hike down via one of several well-marked trails, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours and leads you through peaceful woodland paths and past viewpoints.

What Makes the Skywalk Klettersteig Special?

Iconic Suspension Bridge: The high-altitude bridge is a thrilling highlight unmatched in most Austrian via ferratas.
Accessibility: Close to Dornbirn and the German/Swiss borders, making it easy to reach for travelers from multiple countries.
Ideal for Intermediates: Offers a perfect balance of challenge, beauty, and security.
Stunning Views: On clear days, you can see all the way to Lake Constance and the Swiss Alps.

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Equipment Checklist

Via Ferrata Kit (helmet, harness, energy-absorbing lanyard)
Climbing Gloves
Sturdy Hiking or Approach Shoes
Small Backpack (water, snacks, windbreaker, first aid)

Optional:

Trekking Poles for the descent
Camera or Action Cam—this climb is photo-worthy at every turn

Safety and Tips

Know Your Limits: This is a C/D route, with significant exposure and some overhanging moves—not for beginners.
Check the Weather: Climbing is best in dry conditions; the route is slippery when wet.
Avoid Crowds: Start early, especially in summer, as the route is popular and sections can bottleneck.
Practice Basic Technique: Confidence on vertical terrain will make the difference between a tense and a joyful climb.

A Perfect Day Trip in Vorarlberg

The Skywalk Klettersteig is ideal for a half-day adventure. Pair it with lunch or dinner at the Karren Panorama Restaurant, where you can toast your success while enjoying a birds-eye view of the landscape you just conquered.

If you’re spending more time in the region, consider checking out the nearby Karhorn Klettersteig in Warth or the Hohe Köpfe route near Lech for more via ferrata challenges.

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Final Thoughts

The Skywalk Klettersteig is a via ferrata that captures everything climbers love about the sport: vertical excitement, safe but exhilarating exposure, and unforgettable alpine views. Its accessibility, compact size, and unique bridge make it a must-do for any enthusiast visiting Vorarlberg.

Whether you’re a seasoned ferratist looking for a scenic thrill or a confident intermediate ready for a new challenge, this route delivers one of Austria’s most memorable vertical experiences—high above the valley, where the mountains meet the sky.