Wildhaus

Overview

Wildhaus is a category 2 climb that rewards steady effort over raw punch. Across its 10.9 km it averages 5.79%, lifting you from a start elevation of 462 m to a summit at 1092 m. That works out to a net elevation gain of 630 m, with 607 m of total ascent logged along the way — the small difference reflecting the brief flatter or descending pockets scattered through the climb. It is long enough to demand pacing discipline, yet consistent enough that you can settle into a rhythm and hold it.

How the Gradient Unfolds

The headline number is the 5.79% average, and much of Wildhaus does sit close to that figure. This is a climb defined by its middle band of gradients rather than by extremes. The sting comes from the steepest ramp, which bites at 9.97% — nearly double the average. Expect that pitch to arrive as a sharp deviation from an otherwise measured slope, the kind of section that spikes your heart rate before the road eases back toward the mean. Because the total ascent of 607 m is spread across nearly 11 km, no single kilometre carries an overwhelming share of the work; the difficulty is cumulative, built from sustained pressure rather than one decisive wall.

Pacing Notes

Ride Wildhaus to your FTP, not to your ego. At 5.79% average over 10.9 km, the summit is far enough away that going too deep early will cost you dearly on the upper slopes. Aim to hold a tempo effort that leaves headroom for the 9.97% ramp, where you can afford a short surge without redlining. If you do not know your current threshold, run the numbers through the FTP estimator first and set a target power you can defend for the full 630 m of climbing. The goal is to crest at 1092 m still turning the pedals, not survived.

Gearing

For a 10.9 km climb averaging 5.79% with ramps to 9.97%, give yourself a generous bailout gear. A compact 34-tooth chainring paired with a 34×32 cassette combination covers most riders comfortably on the sustained sections. If you carry fatigue, ride at higher body weight, or simply prefer to spin, a 34×34 low gear gives you extra breathing room on the 9.97% pitch. Either way, prioritise a cadence you can hold rather than grinding — over 630 m of ascent, spinning a lower gear preserves your legs far better than muscling a big one.

Summary

Wildhaus is a classic category 2 test: long, steady, and honest. With 10.9 km at 5.79% and a summit at 1092 m, it rewards patience, smart pacing, and a low gear held in reserve for its steepest 9.97% moment.

Length: 10.9 km
Average gradient: 5.79%
Max gradient: 9.97%
Start: 462 m
Summit: 1092 m
Net gain: 630 m
Total ascent: 607 m
Category: 2