Matschacher Gupf
Matschacher Gupf would never be a first choice for someone visiting the Karawanken mountains for the first time, as there are more prominent and interesting peaks. However, what it offers is a sense of seclusion and tranquility, as it is unlikely to encounter anyone here. In some sense, it is similar to the nearby Sinacher Gupf. Luckily, from the top, we get a bit of a view, and there is also a place to sit.
The walk around Matschacher Gupf starts on the outskirts of Suetschach (but can also start in Matschach). From Suetschach, there's a couple of meters more in ascent. Due to the steep northern slopes of Matschacher Gupf, which are actually vertical at times, we need to get to the southern side of the mountain. This is exactly why the trip is a bit lengthy, as there is a lot of walking in mild terrain.
First, we walk up using a 4x4 road that steadily increases in steepness, and we have no idea when 400 meters of ascent are done. Then we leave the road and enter a narrow forest path, which gets pretty steep at some points. We cross the stream, traverse, and ascend a bit more to reach Gipssattel Pass.
At Gipssattel Pass, most of the work is done. Now, about 200 meters up via the south ridge to the peak of Matschacher Gupf (steep and requires a bit of caution). The trees become more sparse with altitude, and the peak is totally free of them.
The descent follows the eastern ridge (steep and somewhat unpleasant), then heads down through forest roads until reaching the alpine meadow with St. Michael's Chapel. From there, just keep to the left, and the rest of the walk is relatively easy.
Cloudy and humid in the valley. In higher parts strong chilly western wind robbing of any pleasure of the trip.
Marked well for the bigger part of the trip, a bit more caution is required in the vicinity of Sankt Michael's chapel on the side of the Bärental valley. In one spot the trail is eroded due to the high water activity - please refer to the images. Also there was one tricky spot to cross due to lying snow - traverse path and quite high inclination of the terrain..
No info.
Starting point reached by car. There is no real parking, just a little bit of parking space by the road.
Links:Parking location
Met one other tourist but already on the Bärental valley side. Would be surprised to see anyone on the northern side of the Matschacher Gupf.
Generally safe. Encountered one tricky traverse during ascent around 1200 meters above see level with problematic snow on the way. Also the summit parts require a bit more caution where to put the foot.
trekking poles, 20l rucksack, gaiters
