Seen from the north it stands out as a relatively isolated, broad summit block, whose mighty rock faces and steep, rugged, rocky flanks (Schrofen) fall away on all sides.
Its 1,200-metre-high (3,900 ft) south cliff face is impressive and makes it a striking two-thousander.
Tours to the summit depart from the Laufen Hut of the German Alpine Club.
Prerequisites are sure-footedness, a head for heights, good physical fitness, and alpine experience.
Unexpected hazards such as fog, leading to disorientation, and sudden storms have given the region a feared reputation amongst climbers.