Toni Kinshofer

Toni Kinshofer(16 February 1934 – 24 October 1964) was aGermanmountaineer.

In 1961, on an expedition led by Toni Hiebeler, he undertook the first winter ascent of theEigerNorth Face with Walter Almberger and Anderl Mannhardt. At 27, Kinshofer was the senior climber of the team (Mannhardt the youngest at 21). Kinshofer did most of the leading throughout during their epic, six-day (6–12 March) climb.

On 23 June 1962 Kinshofer was one of three climbers on the German team to reach the summit ofNanga ParbatinPakistan,(via the very steep Diamir Face) for its second ascent, with Sigi Löw and Anderl Mannhardt. They had to bivy above 8,000 m on the way down. His climbing partner Loew fell to his death, and Mannhardt and Kinshofer had to have toes and/or feet amputated. The route is named the Kinshofer route and is still a major undertaking.

Kinshofer died in a fall in the climbing area of Battert nearBaden-Badenin theBlack Forestin 1964.

References

• Hiebeler, Toni,North Face in Winterby Toni Hiebeler, Lippincott 1963.