Depending on your preference, you can start directly from Mützens or a little above from the Ochsenalm. Via the Matreier Grube, you then climb through beautiful terrain and in the sunshine to the Serlesjöchl. There you have to climb a short section without skis over a ladder before climbing quite steeply up the last few metres of altitude on the southern flank to the summit. The descent over 1200 metres to the Ochsenalm, along the south-western slopes, is a very beautiful experience in firn.
ROUTE DESCRIPTION
From the car park in front of the toll house in Mützens, first follow the toboggan run to Maria Waldrast. After a little over 2 km, turn left at a bend and walk through a forest to a clearing and continue on to the road to the monastery. Cross the road and continue in a south-westerly direction to the Ochsenalm, beautifully situated in a wide, flat basin. From here you cross an alpine pasture and then continue to climb in a south-westerly direction, past the last trees (mountain pines), towards the Serlesjöchl, located to the south of the tour's destination. Via several steep steps and a long slight right turn around the Serles massif, you finally reach the last steep, somewhat tricky slope that leads up to the Serlesjöchl saddle. After a short break with a view of the Stubaital, you then head north up the steep southern flank to the summit. At the beginning, you have to overcome a short, rocky passage that is well secured with ladders and pins. Afterwards, you climb the last 300 metres in altitude to the cross in rather narrow hairpin bends or, if there is little snow (often blown off), also on foot.
The descent in the upper area is slightly east of the ascent track in a southerly direction. Most of the flank has a rock slope on its lower side, only on a narrower one can this be overcome with skis. As you continue, you can take advantage of the wide terrain formation as you wish, but the one or other somewhat steeper slope is to be enjoyed with caution. From the Ochsenalm, follow the toboggan run back to Mützens.
SAFETY ADVICE
The tour to the Serles leads over very steep southern slopes, especially in the upper area, and can therefore almost only be done as a firn tour in late winter. The descent from the summit over the steep south side should only be dared by very safe skiers, as a fall can end with a long drop over a rocky edge.
TIP FROM THE AUTHOR
If you have the opportunity, visit the Maria Waldrast monastery. Beautifully situated in front of the mighty Serles massif and with a very special atmosphere, it is always worth a visit. It also has a nice inn.
