Austrian Climber Injured in Fall at Noted Rock Formation Near Berchtesgaden

An Austrian mountaineer suffered serious injuries after falling during a hike to a renowned rock formation in the Berchtesgaden Alps. The incident occurred as the 55-year-old woman, accompanied by a companion, was ascending towards the 'Steinerne Agnes,' a distinctive dolomite rock structure in the Lattengebirge range near Bischofswiesen.

The 'Steinerne Agnes,' designated as a national geotope, rises approximately 15 meters on the southern slope of the Dreisesselberg at an altitude of 1,305 meters. The formation is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, attracting visitors due to its unique appearance and the regional legend associated with its origin.

According to reports, the woman and her companion had planned to approach the rock from Klaushäusl, following a trail along the Weißbach river. While navigating a shaded and partially icy section of the path, the mountaineer slipped and fell roughly three meters, sustaining significant injuries to her hip.

Emergency services responded promptly after receiving a distress call around late morning. The mountain rescue team from Bad Reichenhall and the crew of the Traunstein-based rescue helicopter 'Christoph 14' were dispatched to the accident site. The flight crew utilized a winch to lower an emergency physician to the scene, while additional mountain rescuers arrived equipped with medical supplies and thermal blankets.

After initial treatment on site, the injured hiker was secured in a rescue bag and transported via helicopter to the district clinic in Bad Reichenhall for further medical care. The companion of the injured woman was escorted down the mountain by members of the rescue team.

The operation involved a total of twelve mountain rescue personnel from the regions of Reichenhall and Anger, who remained on standby for approximately one hour to ensure the safety and coordination of the mission.

This incident highlights the ongoing risks associated with alpine hiking during winter conditions, particularly in areas where trails are exposed to ice and sudden weather changes. Authorities recommend that hikers and climbers exercise caution and remain aware of trail conditions, especially when navigating less-traveled paths or geologically challenging terrain.

In recent weeks, alpine accidents have underscored the dangers present in mountainous regions during the colder months, with several incidents reported in neighboring areas. Local rescue organizations continue to urge both residents and visitors to prepare adequately and heed safety advisories when exploring alpine environments.