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The Merano 2000 ski area is full of hikers on beautiful days, many of them are drawn to Großer Ifinger, Merano's local mountain. The summit, which is only touted as a moderate hike, teaches fear for some hikers without via ferrata set on the last secured and exposed meters. The neighboring Verdinser Plattenspitze is much quieter and more idyllic. Fit climbers can easily combine both tours in one day.
Arrival
Drive in Merano in the direction of Schenna, follow the signs "Meran 2000" and in the district of Obermais you will reach the valley station of the Naif cable car (N 46.67120, E 11.20942). Alternatively, you can continue to Hafling and before the village turn left towards Hafling-Oberdorf / Falzeben (large parking lot - parking fee). Drive from both valley stations to the Piffing mountain station.
Approach
Path 3 under the chair lift until the path leads the second time to the left of the lift (at approx. 2000 m) close to the right ridge. There is an inconspicuous, unmarked path that leads to the so-called Kuhleiten. Shortly before the summit of Kleiner Ifinger (worth a short detour; you can see the route to Großer Ifinger well), you will meet the junction to Gr. Ifinger (start of ferrata; notice board).
Exit
Same as approach.
Interesting facts
If you connect both paths, the best way to start the round is to climb Großer Ifinger. Both climbs are tricky when wet. Correctly equipped via ferrata sets and helmets are rare on these two routes, but we advise you to take your equipment with you. The steel cables on the Gr. Ifinger (thick hemp ropes) are not ideal for the via ferrata set (carabiner opening may be too small).
(Multiple authors)