Breitzahnkamm

Breitzahnkamm is a mountain ridge in the northern part of the Central European highlands. The name combines the German elements breit, zahn and kamm, alluding to its broad, tooth-like summits. The ridge runs roughly 28 kilometers from west to east and attains a highest point near 1,980 meters above sea level.

Geology and geomorphology: The crest is formed mainly of medium-grade metamorphic rocks, including schist and gneiss, with occasional limestone lenses. The landscape shows glacially sculpted valleys, sharp spurs and cliff faces that attract climbers. Soil is shallow on exposed slopes, with scattered scree and alpine vegetation near the summit.

Climate and ecology: The region experiences a humid continental climate with cool summers and cold winters. Average annual precipitation ranges around 1,100 to 1,500 millimeters, higher on the northern slopes. Vegetation shifts from montane conifer forests at lower elevations to subalpine meadows and rocky vegetation near the crest. The fauna includes species such as Alpine ibex, chamois, red deer, golden eagle and various small mammals, birds and insects.

Human use and protection: Breitzahnkamm lies mostly within protected land and is lightly inhabited. The area is popular for day hiking, long-distance trekking and technical climbing on permitted routes. There are marked trails, seasonal shelters, and a small weather station near the summit. Historically, the ridge was exploited for quarrying and mineral exploration, but these activities have largely ceased and conservation measures aim to preserve habitats and viewscapes.