Scenic snowshoe hike to Sambock/Monte Sommo (2,395 m) through snow-covered forests and mountain meadows, with magnificent panoramic views from the summit.
The snowshoe hike to Sambock/Monte Sommo (2,395 m) is one of the most scenic winter tours above Pfalzen/Falzes. This varied route leads through snow-covered mountain forests, wide meadows and along an impressive mountain ridge to the summit. The peaceful winter landscape and magnificent views of the Bruneck/Brunico basin, the Dolomites/Dolomiti and the Zillertal Alps/Alpi della Zillertal make this tour particularly special.
The starting point is the car park at Tierstallerhof farm in Platten/Plata, above Pfalzen/Falzes, at approximately 1,600 m. From here, follow trail no. 66a towards Sambock/Monte Sommo. The ascent initially leads across a wide meadow to the edge of the forest before continuing uphill along woodland paths and forest roads. The snow-covered trees and peaceful surroundings create a beautiful winter atmosphere.
After a while, you reach the Stockpfarrer mountain meadows. Here the landscape opens up, revealing beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The route continues uphill across wide, snow-covered meadows and through short woodland sections. Passing two small mountain huts, you eventually enter a sparse Swiss stone pine forest as the terrain gradually becomes more alpine.
A more challenging section awaits snowshoe hikers on the ascent of a steep slope with approximately 200 metres of elevation gain, leading to the area known as Platten. This section is the most demanding part of the tour and requires careful assessment of snow and avalanche conditions, especially after heavy snowfall.
Above the steep section, you reach a wide, panoramic mountain ridge. From here, the route initially follows gentle terrain before climbing two shorter, steeper sections towards the summit. The summit cross of Sambock/Monte Sommo, already visible from a distance, marks the destination.
Once at the summit at 2,395 m, you are rewarded with magnificent panoramic views of South Tyrol's mountains. Far below lies the Bruneck/Brunico basin, while the distinctive peaks of the Dolomites/Dolomiti rise to the south. To the north, the view stretches towards the snow-covered mountains of the Zillertal Alps/Alpi della Zillertal. On clear winter days, this panorama is a real highlight of the tour.
One of the special attractions of this snowshoe hike is the variety of winter landscapes along the route. While the lower sections lead through peaceful forests and snow-covered mountain meadows, the upper sections offer open slopes and a wide mountain ridge with magnificent views. The combination of winter tranquillity, varied terrain and breathtaking mountain scenery makes this tour a special experience for experienced snowshoe hikers.
The descent follows the same route as the ascent, passing through the Platten area, the Stockpfarrer mountain meadows and the woodland sections before returning to the car park at Tierstallerhof farm.
The snowshoe hike is classified as moderately difficult and requires good physical fitness, sure-footedness and experience in winter mountain terrain. The steep section below Platten, in particular, can be challenging and exposed to avalanche danger in unfavourable snow conditions.
Important: The route leads through unsecured alpine terrain. Before every tour, always check the latest avalanche bulletin, weather forecast and snow conditions. Complete avalanche rescue equipment, including a transceiver, probe and shovel, as well as the knowledge to use it, is essential. The route must always be adapted to current conditions.
Please also follow the recommendations of the Alpenverein Südtirol (AVS) awareness campaign for environmentally responsible snowshoe hiking and respect wildlife and their natural habitats.
