Do you see that striking peak before us? That is the Goppaschrofen. It rises to 1781 meters above sea level. The Goppaschrofen stands proudly as part of the Galina Group in the Rätikon mountain range.
Goppaschrofen also called Brandkopf is located in Frastanz, Vorarlberg, Austria. Notice how the Goppaschrofen dramatically emerges from the lower Saminatal. Its rough appearance makes it a prominent feature of the Galina Group. This ridge extends toward Frastanz with the Stutzberg as one of its final visible points.
Look at the diverse vegetation. Dense grass, shrubs, and fir trees cover the slopes below. The Europaschutzgebiet Spirkenwälder Saminatal lies to the west.
To the northeast around 850 meters away is the Spitzeälispitz. To the southeast 1250 meters away are the Hohe Köpfe. The Haarkopf lies southwest and the dominant Galinakopf to the south.
Hiking to the Goppaschrofen is quite popular. Relatively well-maintained trails make it accessible. It lies on a side path of the main hiking route across the Galina ridge.
Experienced hikers can traverse the Gurtisspitze, Zäwasheilspitze, Spitzeälispitz, Goppaschrofen and Hohe Köpfe in a single day. Note that the route over the Hohe Köpfe requires sure footing and is secured with ropes in parts. The Sattelalpe is the nearest base for hikers. Remember to bring sturdy footwear for the Goppaschrofen hike as it requires both a good level of fitness and is exposed.
One trail to Goppaschrofen branches off between Bazora-Alpe and Gurtisspitz heading south and then west. This path passes the Spitzeälispitze hunting cabin. Another option is to take the path that branches off westward from the main trail.
In 1968, the Alpenverein Frastanz erected the first mountain cross on the Goppaschrofen. It honored deceased mountain comrades. Especially Otto Märk, who tragically died on the Goppaschrofen in 1944 at just 18 years old. The cross was consecrated during a field mass. The summit cross had to be renewed in 1985. A storm damaged the cross in 2009 and it was replaced in 2011.
The Goppaschrofen is more than just a mountain. It is a landmark of natural beauty, a hiker’s destination. It’s also a memorial to those who loved these mountains. Take a moment to appreciate its beauty and remember those who came before us.