Although the Schneefernerkopf may be viewed as the 'second highest mountain in Germany' after the Zugspitze, this depends heavily on the definition of the term 'mountain'.

Either way, its prominence is 176 m. If it is not reckoned as an independent peak, then the claim to the second highest mountain in Germany goes to the Hochwanner (2,746 m), which is clearly separated from the Zugspitze massif by the Rein Valley, Gatterl and Feldernjöchl.

[citation needed] The third highest mountain, with a height of 2,713 m, is the Watzmann in the Berchtesgaden Alps.

From the Schneefernerkopf there is an exceptionally challenging downhill ski run, the Neue Welt, descending for almost 2,000 metres, to Ehrwald.

It is very exposed, with slopes up to 45° and has an abseil section, that is rated as UIAA grade III.