Walter Keiderling Klettersteig

Walter Keiderling Klettersteig is a via ferrata on Nonnenfelsen near Erlabrunn in the Saxon Erzgebirge, just across the Czech border from Potůčky. For a low-mountain route it is surprisingly varied: it combines an initial climb, a traverse, exposed sections, a short cable bridge and a protected descent back down. Alpský vůdce lists the grade as C/D, with 350 m of protected climbing, 50 m of ascent and about 40 minutes of climbing time; German sources describe it as roughly a one-hour outing on Nonnenfelsen.

Route

The approach is very short. From the parking area by Erlabrunn railway stop, walk to the station, cross the bridge and the ferrata is visible on the opposite rock. The route starts with a climb, continues with a traverse and rises again. Near the top there is a short cable / three-rope bridge section; the return leads back down towards the station, either via the protected descent section or by forest path depending on the chosen option. For topo and current user information, use the Ferrata Guide profile; a more detailed German route description is available on via-ferrata.de.

Admission

The ferrata is free to access and does not require a reservation. It is not a staffed commercial attraction, so visitors need their own equipment and suitable experience.

Practical Information

The essential equipment is a climbing harness, via-ferrata lanyard set and helmet; for children or less confident climbers, a rope for additional belaying is sensible. Grade C/D means this is more than a simple beginner walk: it requires arm strength, comfort with exposure and dry rock. Do not climb during thunderstorms, ice, snow or after heavy rain. German route information notes that organized courses and guided groups should coordinate with the route builder / maintainer, Outdoorteam Westerzgebirge e. V.; in an emergency call 112 and ask for Bergwacht Carlsfeld.

Directions and Contacts

The map pin is set at the ferrata / rock start: 50.4715, 12.7203. Alpský vůdce gives parking at 50.4709, 12.7199; other German sources point to parking by the allotment gardens or the large parking area at Erlabrunn railway stop. From the Czech side, approach through Potůčky to Erlabrunn; the ferrata is opposite the railway stop on the Schwarzenberg-Johanngeorgenstadt line. The local tourism page for Nonnenfelsen and the ferrata is erlabrunnerzgebirge.de.