In addition the Hochwanner is the highest peak on the main ridge of the Wetterstein (Wettersteinhauptkamm) running from Gatterl to the Upper Wettersteinspitze (Oberen Wettersteinspitze) above Mittenwald in an east–west direction.

[4] Despite being the second highest peak in Germany and having a north face which drops about 1500 m[2] (one of the highest rock faces in the whole of the Northern Limestone Alps) the Hochwanner has remained a relatively unknown mountain.

The more widely known, but lower Watzmann is often wrongly cited as the second highest mountain in Germany.

The easiest route to the summit is from the south from the Rotmoosalm (3 hours) or from Gatterl.

Pathless in places or only recognisable by a faint trail it initially runs up steep grass meadows, later over a short rock climb (grade I on the UIAA scale) and then mainly over steep, laborious scree slopes to the summit.