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About this place
Riedkopf is a summit in the Rätikon range, sitting on the border between Austria's Vorarlberg and Switzerland's canton of Graubünden. On the Swiss side it belongs to the municipality of Luzein in the Prättigau valley. The usual height quoted is 2,552 m, though some hiking sites list 2,530 or 2,547 m. Swiss sources also spell it "Riedchopf".
Where is the Riedkopf?
The mountain stands on the eastern edge of the Rätikon, between the Gargellen valley on the Austrian side and St. Antönien on the Swiss side. From the ridge you look across to the pale limestone wall of the Sulzfluh, a view hikers often single out in their trip reports.
How do you climb it in summer?
The most common route starts in Gargellen at the Schafberg Hüsli restaurant. The Schafberg cable car cuts down the climbing, so the loop over the St. Antönier Joch pass covers about 10.5 km with roughly 540 m of ascent and takes around 4.5 hours. From the pass, the summit is about an hour further, and the summit cross is visible from far off.
The last stretch between the saddle and the top calls for sure footing and a head for heights. Komoot rates the Gargellen route as a hard hike. Return the same way or take the cable car down.
Can you ski-tour the Riedkopf?
Yes, it is a classic winter objective. From Gargellen the route follows the Gargellenbach stream to the St. Antönier Joch, with about 1,200 m of ascent and roughly 6 hours of effort. The Swiss variant starts in St. Antönien and runs through Rüti, Alpeti and Alpetitälli, with the lowest point at 1,460 m. The north-facing descent toward Partnun is steep. Check the SLF avalanche bulletin before setting out.
When should you go?
Summer hiking runs from June to September, depending on snow cover. In winter the ski-touring season depends on avalanche conditions.
Frequently asked questions
How high is the Riedkopf?
The most commonly given figure is 2,552 m above sea level. Other sources list 2,530 to 2,550 m.
How long is the hike from Gargellen?
The loop over the St. Antönier Joch takes about 4.5 hours, with the Schafberg cable car shortening the ascent.
Is the route difficult?
It is moderately demanding. The final section needs steady footing and a tolerance for exposure.
Can you climb it in winter?
Yes, on ski tours from Gargellen or St. Antönien. Avalanche assessment is essential.
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