Strahlkogel Traverse (Westgrat up, Ostgrat down)

We started early, which was good because we took a wrong turn above the Grastalsee, going too far south. Back down to the lake!

This time we got it right. We traveled without a rope up to the notch in the Westgrat, then beyond for very enjoyable climbing until the steeper terrain of the summit block. A simul-climbed ~80 meter pitch to the top.

We didn't know what to expect for the Ostgrat, and were surprised at the difficulties. However, we enjoyed it tremendously.

We turned left to follow the ridge down to the Larstigerscharte. We found the most difficult pitch of the day here, a light gray tower with a short vertical step (III+). This section of the ridge must be rarely climbed -- I dislodged an enormous block by touching it with my foot.

Enjoyable travel down the Larstigtal. A gorgeous day.