The Mädelegabel is a 2,645 metre high mountain, made of main dolomite, in the Allgäu Alps near Oberstdorf. It is one of the best-known and most-climbed high peaks in the German Alps, Within the Allgäu Alps it is the fourth-highest summit, with rock faces up to 400 metres high. Together with the Trettachspitze and the Hochfrottspitze it forms the famous triumvirate of peaks on the main crest of the Allgäu. Its name comes from "Mähder" - a mown mountain pasture in the vicinity - and "gabel" from the appearance of the triumvirate to the north which recalls a fork (German: "Gabel"). Originally the Mädelegabel was the name for all three peaks of the triumvirate; only later were they distinguished from one another by name.
The border between Bavaria and Austria runs along the mountain ridge.
On its southeastern slopes is the Schwarzmilzferner, a small glacier.
The extremely popular Heilbronn Way ("Heilbronner Weg") runs past the summit, below it and to the south.
Ascent.
The Mädelegabel can be quickly reached from the Heilbronn Way. The route branches off the Heilbronn Way on the ridge just above the Schwarmilzferner glacier and follows the marked path, taking about 30 minutes to reach the summit. It involves a UIAA grade I climb which is not difficult as it is not very exposed and the going, on solid rock, is firm. As a result, the mountain receives a lot of visitors.
Bases that can be used for the ascent include the Waltenberger Haus (2.5 hours to the summit), Kemptner Hut (2.75 h) and Rappensee Hut (5 h). The Mädelegabel is a popular spring ski tour starting from the Lech valley and overnighting if need be at the Kemptner Hut.
The mountain was probably first climbed during survey work in 1818/19 which was completed by the border commission in 1835. It was certainly conquered in 1852 by Otto Sendtner on today's normal ascent.
References.
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