Hiking in Austria: The Ultimate Guide

from 1.395 €/person

Salzburg & Hohe Tauern National Park

Home to Austria's highest peaks including Grossglockner (3,798m), this region combines dramatic Alpine scenery with protected wilderness. Hohe Tauern National Park is Austria's largest, offering exceptional wildlife viewing—chamois, ibex, golden eagles, and marmots—alongside glacier-fed valleys and high mountain passes. The trails here balance challenging high-altitude sections with gentler valley approaches, making them accessible to fit hikers without extreme technical demands.

For comprehensive information about Austria's protected mountain areas, see our guide to the top national parks of Austria, which can also help you plan which parks you want to visit on your next hike.

Highlights:

Grossglockner (3,798m)

The Grossglockner rises to 3,798 meters, standing as Austria's highest mountain and the centerpiece of the Hohe Tauern range. Its pyramidal form and prominent position above the Pasterze Glacier have made it a focal point of Austrian alpine history since the first recorded ascent in 1800. The normal route involves glacier travel and exposed rock ridges, requiring technical alpine skills. The mountain's visibility from valleys across Carinthia and Tyrol gives it constant geographic presence in the Eastern Alps.

Pasterze Glacier

The Pasterze Glacier extends roughly 8 kilometers down the eastern flank of the Grossglockner, making it Austria's longest glacier and the most prominent ice feature in the Hohe Tauern National Park. Observation points along the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe road allow direct views of the glacier's surface and lateral moraines without technical access. Documented retreat since measurements began in the 1850s has reduced its length by over 3 kilometers, providing clear evidence of long-term glacial change. The glacier sits within protected park boundaries established in 1981.

Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe

Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe sits at 2,369 meters along the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, offering direct views of the Grossglockner summit and the Pasterze Glacier from an accessible viewing terrace. The site was developed in the 1930s alongside road construction and named after Emperor Franz Joseph I, who visited the area multiple times during the late 19th century. A visitor center provides interpretation of glacial processes and regional geology. The terrace's orientation allows for clear observation of the glacier's terminus and lateral moraines without technical access requirements.

Featured hike in this region:

7 days

The Glockner Trail

from 1.189 €/person

Vorarlberg & Lechtal Alps

Austria's westernmost region feels distinctly different—more remote, less crowded, and genuinely wild. The Lech River carves through dramatic gorges and valleys, creating one of Europe's last free-flowing Alpine rivers. The Lechtal Alps offer moderate-altitude trekking (mostly 1,800-2,400m) with excellent trail infrastructure but far fewer hikers than Tyrol's popular routes. If you value solitude and pristine nature over technical challenge, Vorarlberg delivers.

Highlights:

Lech River

The Lech River originates near the Formarinsee at roughly 1,800 meters, flowing 264 kilometers northward through Vorarlberg, Tyrol, and Bavaria before joining the Danube. Its upper sections maintain a wild, braided character protected under the European Natura 2000 designation. The river valley historically served as a major north-south corridor connecting Alpine and Bavarian regions. Its turquoise color, created by glacial flour from surrounding limestone, remains distinctive throughout its Austrian course.

Formarinsee

Formarinsee sits at 1,793 meters in a glacial basin near the headwaters of the Lech River, surrounded by the Rote Wand and Lechtaler Alps. The lake's turquoise water and open meadow setting create clear reflections of surrounding peaks under calm conditions. Access from Lech am Arlberg follows well-marked trails through the Formarintal valley. The area's position at the drainage source gives it distinct ecological characteristics within the Lech River system.

Holzgau Suspension Bridge

The Holzgau Suspension Bridge spans 200 meters across the Höhenbach gorge at roughly 1,100 meters, connecting trails between the Lechtal and Bschlabs valleys. Built in 2004, the bridge hangs 110 meters above the streambed, offering unobstructed views down the gorge and across the Lechtal Alps. Its construction replaced older, less-stable crossings used historically by local farmers and foresters. The bridge forms part of the Lechweg long-distance trail system.

Featured hike in this region:

10 days

The Lech River Trail

from 1.359 €/person

Eastern Tyrol & Venediger Group

Often overlooked in favor of more famous regions, Eastern Tyrol offers exceptional remote trekking through the Venediger Group's glacier-dominated landscape. This is high-altitude wilderness hiking with fewer services and more self-sufficiency required, rewarding experienced mountain travelers with genuine solitude and some of Austria's most pristine alpine environments. The Alpe-Adria Trail also crosses this region, connecting Austria with Slovenia and Italy.

Highlights:

Großvenediger

Großvenediger (Grossvenediger) reaches 3,657 meters, forming the highest summit in the Venediger Group and the fourth-highest peak in Austria. Its glaciated north face and prominent position create long-range visibility across the central Hohe Tauern. The first ascent in 1841 marked an early milestone in Eastern Alpine mountaineering, with the standard route still crossing moderate glacier terrain from the Kürsinger Hut. The mountain's isolation and alpine character make it a classic high-altitude objective in the region.

Umbal Falls

Umbal Falls drops 380 meters in multiple cascades along the Isel River in the upper Virgental, making it one of Austria's highest continuous waterfalls. A marked trail from the valley floor leads to viewing platforms at different elevations, providing close access to the main cascade sections. Peak flow occurs during summer meltwater periods when glacial runoff from the surrounding Venediger Group feeds the river. The falls sit within the Hohe Tauern National Park boundaries.

Innergschlöss Valley

Innergschlöss Valley extends southward from Matrei in Osttirol toward the Venediger Group, terminating at the glaciated cirque beneath Großvenediger. The valley floor remains roadless, preserving a remote character despite well-maintained trails to the Matreier Tauernhaus and inner refuges. Historical use as a high-pasture zone shaped the landscape visible today, with remnants of traditional alpine farming structures still present. Its position provides direct approaches to major Venediger summits and glacier crossings.

Featured hike in this region:

6 days

Alpe-Adria-Trail: Grossglockner to Mallnitz

from 1.079 €/person

Salzburg Alps & Almenweg Region

The Salzburger Almenweg represents a different style of Austrian trekking—alpine pasture hopping at moderate elevations (1,500-2,200m) with exceptional mountain hut hospitality and gentler terrain than the high Alpine routes. This region emphasizes cultural immersion and traditional Alpine farming landscapes over technical challenge, making it ideal for hikers new to multi-day trekking or those seeking a more relaxed pace. The scenery remains spectacular despite lower elevations, with rolling ridges, flower-filled meadows, and panoramic views across the Salzburg Alps.

Highlights:

Dachstein Massif

The Dachstein Massif rises to 2,995 meters at the Hoher Dachstein, forming the highest limestone formation in the Northern Limestone Alps. Its glaciated plateau and vertical south face create a distinctive profile visible across Upper Austria, Styria, and Salzburg. The massif's extensive cave systems, including the Dachstein Giant Ice Cave, reflect the region's karst geology. Cable car access from multiple valleys has made it one of Austria's most visited high-alpine areas since the early 20th century.

Tennengebirge Plateau

The Tennengebirge Plateau stretches across roughly 250 square kilometers between Salzburg and the Dachstein, characterized by flat limestone surfaces, sinkholes, and minimal vegetation above 2,000 meters. Elevations range from deep valleys at 500 meters to the 2,430-meter Raucheck summit, creating dramatic vertical relief. The plateau's karst formations and underground drainage systems include the Eisriesenwelt, the world's largest accessible ice cave. Its remote interior and limited water sources require careful route planning for multi-day crossings.

Bischofsmütze Peak

Bischofsmütze rises to 2,458 meters in the Dachstein region, distinguished by its sharp, bishop's-mitre profile visible from Gosau and surrounding valleys. The peak's exposed rock ridges and technical scrambling sections make it a demanding objective requiring solid alpine skills. First climbed in 1879, it became a landmark in early limestone alpinism. Its distinctive shape has made it one of the most recognizable summits in the Salzkammergut.

Featured trek in this region:

9 days

Salzburger Almenweg Highlights: Obertauern to Werfen

from 1.190 €/person

Salzkammergut & Lower Austria

Austria's lake district offers a completely different trekking experience—lower-elevation hiking (800-2,000m) combining Alpine scenery with pristine mountain lakes. The Salzkammergut region features gentler terrain, family-friendly trails, and the unique experience of trekking from lake to lake through forested mountains and traditional villages. This is ideal for hikers wanting Alpine beauty without high-altitude challenges, or for extending the hiking season (trails here are accessible May through October, longer than high Alpine routes).

For more detailed information about Austria's diverse hiking regions and their unique characteristics, explore our curated top 15 hiking landmarks in Austria guide.

Highlights:

Hallstätter See

Hallstätter See lies at 508 meters, stretching 8.5 kilometers through a narrow glacial valley with depths reaching 125 meters. The lakeside village of Hallstatt, positioned on a narrow shore terrace, has been continuously inhabited for over 7,000 years, with salt mining forming the economic foundation since prehistoric times. UNESCO World Heritage designation in 1997 recognized the area's cultural landscape and archaeological significance. Steep mountain walls rising directly from the water create a compressed, dramatic setting.

Gosausee

Gosausee lies at 933 meters in a glacially carved basin beneath the Dachstein massif, with the lake's southern shore offering unobstructed views of the Dachstein South Face. A shoreline trail provides level walking access around the water's edge without elevation gain. The lake's dark, reflective surface creates clear mirror images of surrounding peaks under calm conditions. Its scenic position has made it one of the most photographed locations in the Salzkammergut region since the 19th century.

Schafberg Summit

Schafberg reaches 1,783 meters above the Wolfgangsee, accessible via a rack railway built in 1893 that climbs from St. Wolfgang to the summit station. The exposed peak provides 360-degree views across the Salzkammergut lake district and toward the Dachstein and Berchtesgaden ranges. Its prominent position and early infrastructure development made it one of Austria's first accessible panoramic viewpoints. The summit hotel, operational since the late 19th century, remains one of the oldest mountain-top accommodations in the Alps.

Featured trek in this region:

6 days

The Salzkammergut Lakes Hiking Tour

2/5 Fitness

from 1.129 €/person

Best Time for Hut-to-Hut Hiking in Austria

The Austrian hiking season runs from mid-June through mid-September, directly correlating with mountain hut opening schedules. Huts close their doors during winter and remain shuttered until snow conditions allow safe access and operation—typically late May or early June depending on elevation and snowpack.

While some lower-elevation lodges may open in May and remain operational into October, you shouldn't count on this availability when planning advance bookings for hut-to-hut treks. The reliable core season remains late June through early September.

girl stands on the shore of a mountain lake — Late June to early September offers the most reliable planning window

Monthly Breakdown

Month	Conditions	Crowds	Best For
Late May - Early June	Some huts still closed, possible snow on high passes, wildflowers emerging	Very few	Experienced hikers comfortable with variable conditions
Mid-Late June	Nearly all huts open, trails clearing, peak wildflower bloom	Light-moderate	Wildflower enthusiasts, photographers, those seeking solitude
July	All huts open, most stable weather, warmest temperatures	Moderate-heavy (increases after mid-month with school holidays)	First-time visitors, families, anyone prioritizing weather certainty
August	Continued stable weather, very warm at altitude	Heaviest crowds of year	Social hikers, those with fixed August vacation schedules
Early-Mid September	Crystal-clear air, stable weather, autumn colors beginning, cooler temperatures	Light-moderate	Photographers, experienced hikers seeking optimal conditions
Late September	Some huts closing, shorter days, colder nights, first snow possible	Very light	Autumn color enthusiasts, solitude seekers

Weather Patterns

Afternoon thunderstorms dominate the summer hiking season. During hot days from June through August, storms develop with remarkable regularity between 2-5 PM. Experienced Alpine hikers build their entire schedule around this pattern—start early (7-8 AM), reach your destination by early afternoon, and watch storms roll through from the safety of a mountain hut.

Trail marker on a hiking trail in Tyrol, Austria — Trails are always marked and have multiple signs on the way, so you will never get lost

For comprehensive month-by-month guidance including detailed weather patterns, packing recommendations, and booking timelines, see our month-by-month weather guide.

Temperature variations by elevation are significant: expect approximately 6°C temperature drop for every 1,000m elevation gain. A comfortable 22°C valley morning translates to roughly 10°C at 2,500m on high passes—full layering systems remain essential even in August.

Booking Timeline

High season (July-August): Book mountain huts 3-5 months in advance—ideally by March or April for popular routes.
Shoulder season (June, September): Book 2-3 months ahead for most routes, though popular huts on signature trails like Stubai Höhenweg still fill up quickly.

Our strong recommendation: Target late June (final 10 days) or early September (first three weeks) for optimal conditions—excellent weather, manageable crowds, reasonable prices, and the full Alpine hiking experience.

Young caucasian man sitting outdoor on a rock working on a laptop pc in mountain area. — Popular hut routes require long-range planning during peak summer weeks

Understanding Austrian Mountain Huts

Mountain huts (Almhütten and Berghütten) form the backbone of Austria's trekking infrastructure, enabling multi-day Alpine journeys without carrying camping equipment. Most are managed by the Austrian Alpine Club (Österreichischer Alpenverein), the country's largest mountaineering organization, though private and other club huts also dot the landscape.

Understanding mountain hut culture, facilities, expectations, and etiquette helps you prepare mentally and logistically for the authentic hut-to-hut experience.

What Makes Austrian Hut Culture Special

Austrian mountain huts embody a uniquely Alpine tradition dating back over a century. Unlike commercial hotels, these are genuine mountain refuges positioned in spectacular high-altitude locations accessible only on foot, existing primarily to provide safe shelter for mountain travelers. The communal atmosphere—shared dining tables, group meals, dormitory sleeping—creates immediate camaraderie among hikers from diverse backgrounds.

The hut experience is authentically rustic by design. Logistics are complicated and expensive at 2,000-2,800m elevation where supply helicopters fly in provisions and solar panels provide limited electricity. You won't find luxury amenities, but you'll discover something more valuable: genuine mountain hospitality, spectacular positioning, and cultural immersion in Alpine traditions.

Hiking couple sitting in front of mountain hut, taking a break — Communal hut culture shapes the social rhythm of Austrian alpine travel

1. Accommodation Types

Dormitory rooms (Matratzenlager or Lager) are standard. You'll share sleeping quarters with 6-20+ other hikers on bunk beds with mattresses, blankets, and pillows provided. Most huts organize dormitories by gender when possible, though mixed dorms are common on busy nights.
Private rooms (Privatzimmer) with 2-4 beds exist in some huts, particularly larger or more accessible ones. These book out first—often months in advance—and cost 30-50% more than dormitory beds. Don't count on private room availability for last-minute bookings.

Pro tip: Sleeping bag liners are mandatory in all huts. This thin sheet liner prevents body contact with blankets and reduces laundry burden on huts. You must bring your own (lightweight silk or cotton liners weigh 200-300g) or purchase disposable versions on-site for €3-8. Huts will refuse accommodation without one!

2. Facilities & Services

Bathrooms are shared, typically with limited stalls relative to capacity. Expect morning queues. Water-saving toilets are standard.
Showers exist in most huts but come with significant caveats. Water supply is often rainwater-dependent, meaning showers may be unavailable during dry periods. When functional, showers cost around €3-5 for 3-4 minutes (purchase tokens at reception). Some hikers skip showers entirely on multi-day treks—it's socially acceptable.
Electricity is limited. Most huts have charging stations for phones and devices, but slots are limited and may cost €1-2. Bring portable battery packs for camera and phone charging independence.
Mobile reception is inconsistent. Many high-altitude huts lack cell coverage entirely. Plan on being genuinely disconnected for portions of your trek—it's part of the experience.
WiFi is increasingly available in larger, more accessible huts, but don't count on it. When available, it's often slow and may require purchase codes.

Small village in the Carnic Alps with herd of dairy cows and horses. Mountain peak of Osternig or Oisternig, Italy-Austria Border. Feistritz an der Gail municipality, Carinthia, Austria, Europe. — Very few mountain huts offer private accommodations, so be prepared to share the room with other hikers

3. Food & Dining

Austrian huts operate on a half-board (Halbpension) system that's become the standard for hut-to-hut hiking. Half-board includes:

Dinner (Abendessen): Served 6-8 PM, typically a hearty traditional Austrian meal—soups, stews, schnitzels, goulash, dumplings, spätzle. Portions are generous. Most huts serve family-style at communal tables, creating social atmosphere.
Breakfast (Frühstück): Served 7-8 AM, a Continental spread of bread, cheese, cold cuts, jam, butter, coffee, and tea. Sufficient for starting your hiking day.

Lunch is not included in half-board. Most hikers carry trail snacks (bars, dried fruit, nuts) or order packed lunches from huts (€8-12, prepared the evening before). Some routes pass huts convenient for lunch stops.

Drinks are extra. Expect to pay €3-5 for beer, €2-3 for soft drinks, €1-2 for tap water. Huts encourage purchasing drinks rather than carrying heavy water bottles up mountains.

Dietary restrictions can usually be accommodated with advance notice (provided during booking). Vegetarian options are standard; vegan, gluten-free, and allergy accommodations require advance communication.

breakfast in a traditional hutte in tirol alms with fruits and wurst — Half-board simplifies logistics but excludes daytime fueling

4. Austrian Hut Cuisine to Try

While menus vary by hut and region, certain traditional Austrian mountain dishes appear frequently and represent authentic Alpine cuisine worth experiencing.

Tiroler Gröstl

Tiroler Gröstl combines pan-fried potatoes, onions, and leftover beef or pork, topped with a fried egg and served in a cast-iron skillet. The dish originated as a practical way to use remaining ingredients in alpine farming households and mountain refuges. Its straightforward preparation and filling nature made it ideal for hut kitchens with limited supplies. Regional variations exist across Tyrol, with some versions using bacon or different meat combinations.

Knödel (Dumplings)

Knödel are boiled dumplings made from bread, potatoes, or a combination of both, often mixed with herbs, bacon, or cheese depending on regional style. Bread dumplings (Semmelknödel) frequently accompany meat dishes, while Speck knödel incorporate smoked bacon. The preparation method allowed alpine communities to utilize stale bread efficiently in an era before widespread refrigeration. Variations appear throughout the Austrian Alps, with Tyrol and Salzburg regions maintaining distinct local recipes.

Wiener Schnitzel

The country’s most iconic dish, Wiener Schnitzel is a thin cutlet of veal or pork, coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden. It’s typically served with Kartoffelsalat (potato salad), dressed with a light vinaigrette instead of heavy mayonnaise. The balance of crispy schnitzel and tangy potatoes makes it a lighter meal than it first appears. You’ll find it in Gasthäuser across the country, from Vienna to Tyrol.

Austrian Goulash

Hearty and warming, Austrian goulash differs from its Hungarian cousin by being thicker and more intensely flavored with paprika. It often includes onions slow-cooked until sweet and tender, giving the sauce a rich depth. Served with bread rolls or dumplings, it’s a dish that keeps you full for hours. Popular in both city cafés and mountain inns, it’s the ultimate post-cycling comfort meal.

Kaiserschmarrn

This shredded pancake is caramelized in the pan and dusted with powdered sugar. Served with fruit compote—often plums or apples—it’s both playful and filling. Traditionally enjoyed in alpine huts, it makes for a memorable cycling-day indulgence.

5. Mountain Hut Etiquette

Remove hiking boots immediately upon entering. All huts provide dedicated boot rooms. Most supply crocs, flip-flops, or hut slippers to borrow, though bringing your own lightweight camp shoes (Crocs, sandals) weighs minimal.
Quiet hours (Ruhezeit) after 10 PM are strictly observed. Hikers wake early (6-7 AM) for early starts, meaning evening socializing ends promptly. Be considerate of dormitory mates.
Morning departures should be silent. Pack your backpack the evening before, organize gear outside the dormitory, and minimize noise when leaving before others wake.
Trash goes down with you. Huts cannot dispose of personal waste—carry all packaging, wrappers, and trash to valley towns with waste facilities.
Respect fellow hikers' space. Dormitories are tight quarters. Keep your belongings organized, don't spread gear everywhere, and be mindful of others.

For detailed information about specific huts in each region, including facilities, positioning, and what makes certain huts special, see our guide to the best huts to stay in when hiking in Austria.

6. Booking & Payment

Book as early as possible—hut-to-hut hiking's growing popularity means peak season (July-August) huts fill up 3-5 months in advance. Some popular huts on routes like Stubai Höhenweg sell out completely for peak weeks.

Booking methods vary by hut:

Online: Some huts use AlpenVerein booking system or individual websites
Email: Many smaller huts prefer email bookings
Phone: Traditional but requires German language skills

Payment is cash-only in most mountain huts. ATMs don't exist at 2,500m. Carry sufficient euros for your entire trek—budget €60-90 per day per person covering half-board (€45-65), drinks (€10-15), and incidentals (showers, charging, packed lunches).

Austrian Alpine Club membership offers significant advantages:

Discounted hut rates (typically 30-50% off standard prices)
Priority booking during high-demand periods
Mountain rescue insurance included with membership
Access to club-owned huts across the Alps

Discover the Alpine Club’s website for more information on the membership.

Mountaineer hiking over a ridge in the alps, Austria — Insurance coverage is integral, not optional, in Alpine terrain

Why Book With Us

Booking Austrian mountain huts as a foreign visitor involves language barriers, scattered booking systems, uncertain availability, and time-consuming coordination across multiple huts for a single trek.

Our hut-to-hut hiking tours handle all accommodations, securing your beds months in advance, coordinating with hut keepers in German, and ensuring you have guaranteed lodging every night of your trek. We remove the logistical stress so you can focus on preparation and excitement.

How to Prepare for Austrian Hiking

Austrian Alpine hiking—especially multi-day hut-to-hut treks—demands physical fitness, appropriate gear, and mental preparation for sustained mountain travel. While most established trails avoid technical climbing, the cumulative challenge of average daily 12-18km stages with 800-1,200m elevation gains, often crossing passes above 2,500m, and carrying backpacks day after day requires genuine preparation.

senior hiking group in steep terrain — Mental pacing matters as much as cardiovascular fitness on any hiking trip

Fitness & Training

If you're a regular hiker—hiking weekly or bi-weekly, comfortable with full-day outings, and familiar with multi-day trips—you have a solid foundation. If not, begin training at least 8-12 weeks before your trek.

Training progression:

12-8 weeks out: Start with weekly hikes on local terrain, even just modest hills. Focus on time on feet (2-3 hours minimum) rather than pace. Build base endurance.
8-4 weeks out: Increase to 2-3 hikes per week, including one longer weekend hike (4-6 hours) and shorter midweek sessions. Add elevation gain progressively—aim for 500-800m cumulative gain on weekend hikes. Begin carrying a weighted backpack (5-8kg) to simulate trekking conditions.
4-2 weeks out: Peak training volume. One weekly hike should mimic actual trek conditions: 12-15km distance, 800-1,000m elevation gain, 8-10kg backpack. Your legs, cardiovascular system, and feet should adapt to sustained effort at trekking pace.
2 weeks out: Taper training volume to allow recovery before departure. Maintain fitness with shorter hikes but reduce intensity and duration.

Fitness benchmarks to target:

Comfortably hike 12-15km with 800-1,000m elevation gain in 5-7 hours
Maintain sure-footedness on uneven, rocky terrain even when fatigued
Carry 8-10kg backpack without shoulder or back discomfort
Hike consecutive days without excessive muscle soreness

Female climber on a via ferrata - climbing on a rock in Austria Alps — Make sure you are physically prepared to make the most out of your hiking trip

If you're interested in incorporating summit attempts into your trek, review our guide to the best peaks to visit when hiking in Austria for fitness requirements and technical considerations for Austria's most accessible Alpine summits.

Cardiovascular endurance matters more than strength. Alpine hiking is sustained aerobic effort at moderate intensity for 5-8 hours daily. Running, cycling, swimming, or stair climbing all build complementary fitness, but hiking itself is the best training.

Mental preparation is underestimated. Multi-day treks involve continuous physical effort, variable weather, dormitory sleeping with snoring, and moments of discomfort or fatigue. Mental resilience—staying positive, managing discomfort, enjoying the journey despite challenges—matters as much as physical fitness.

Gear & Packing

Hiker Packing Backpack Bearded Man and Large and Small Backpacks Attached one to another with Climbing Helmet Ice Axe and Other Gear — Every decision made at packing time compounds across long distances

"If you want to know how experienced a mountaineer is, watch them pack their backpack." This Alpine saying holds truth: effective packing balances preparedness with weight discipline. Every unnecessary item adds burden over 50-100km of hiking.

The most vital gear piece: hiking boots or shoes. Your feet carry you across Austria's Alps—invest in footwear that fits properly, supports your ankles under load, and won't cause blisters.

Trail running shoes work for experienced hikers accustomed to minimalist footwear and confident on technical terrain. For most hikers, proper hiking boots with ankle support remain the better choice, especially when carrying 8-12kg backpacks across rocky trails and scree slopes.

Break in your boots completely before your trek. Wear them on training hikes with weighted backpacks to identify pressure points, adjust lacing, and ensure they won't cause blisters over multi-day use.

Yellow crampons for shoes before reaching the top. Hiking, traveling, climbing. — Break-in hikes reveal pressure points that only appear after hours of movement

Essential Packing List

Footwear & Accessories:

Hiking boots or shoes (broken in)
Camp shoes or sandals (for evenings in huts—Crocs work perfectly)
Hiking poles (essential for knee relief on descents and stability on uneven terrain)

Backpack:

25-35 liter capacity for hut-to-hut treks (you're not carrying camping gear or cooking equipment)
Rain cover or waterproof liner
Target packed weight: 8-12kg maximum including water

Clothing - Layering System:

Base layer top: Merino wool or synthetic (never cotton—it holds moisture)
T-shirt or light top for warm valley hiking
Mid-layer insulation: Fleece or lightweight synthetic jacket
Down jacket or synthetic puffy for cold mornings, high passes, and hut evenings
Hardshell waterproof jacket: Quality matters—cheap rain jackets fail in Alpine storms
Waterproof pants: Essential for protection on exposed passes during storms
Hiking pants (zip-off convertible pants work well)
Hiking shorts for warm weather
Warm hat and gloves (yes, even in July—high passes get cold)
Sun hat or cap for valley hiking
3-4 pairs hiking socks (merino wool blend recommended)
Comfortable clothes for hut evenings (lightweight, quick-dry preferred)

Tourist packing backpack for travelling, Preparing for summer adventures, Travel concept — Lightweight versatility reduces both carried weight and decision fatigue

Required Items:

Sleeping bag liner (Hüttenschlafsack): Mandatory in all huts
Sunglasses (high-altitude UV is intense)
Sunscreen SPF 30+ and lip balm
First aid kit: Blister plasters (Compeed), pain relievers, personal medications, bandages
Water bottles or hydration system (1.5-2L capacity)
Headlamp for early starts or evening hut use
Toiletries (travel-size, biodegradable soap preferred)
ID or passport
Cash (€60-90 per day minimum)
Phone with offline maps and emergency contacts

Optional But Recommended:

Portable battery pack (10,000mAh) for device charging
Camera
Trekking gaiters (for scree and snow patches)
Whistle (for emergency signaling)
Multi-tool or knife
Book or e-reader for hut downtime

Hiking Gear Heap of Dropped in Mess Mountain Climbing and Camping Equipment Backpack Helmet Sleeping Bag Boots Thermos Flask and Other Legs of People Blurred Behind — Small comforts become disproportionately valuable after sustained physical effort

What NOT to pack:

Camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, cooking equipment—unnecessary for hut-to-hut)
Multiple outfit changes (you'll repeat clothes—it's normal)
Heavy toiletries or full towels (huts provide towels when showers are available)
Excessive electronics
Anything "just in case" that you likely won't use

Austria, Tyrol, rear view of couple on a hiking trip in the mountains enjoying the view — Every kilogram counts when hiking 800-1,200m elevation daily. Pack ruthlessly

Top Multi-Day Hikes in Austria

Austria offers dozens of multi-day trekking routes, from 3-day introductions to 2-week epics crossing entire mountain ranges. The following five routes represent some of Austria's finest hut-to-hut experiences—each carefully chosen for spectacular scenery, achievable challenge, excellent infrastructure, and consistent hiker satisfaction.

These are routes we've guided, refined, and watched transform hikers year after year. They're not just popular trails—they're routes that deliver unforgettable Alpine experiences across difficulty levels.

For a curated overview comparing Austria's absolute best multi-day routes, see our Top 5 Treks in Austria guide.

1. Adlerweg Highlights

The Eagle's Path through the heart of the Karwendel Alps—Tyrol's most spectacular 5-day mountain traverse.

Beautiful view of Schlegeisspeicher Lake from Olpererhutte - Zillertal, Tyrol - Austria — Long traverses reward rhythm and consistency more than raw speed or aggressive pacing

The Adlerweg spans all of Tyrol across 33 stages covering 413 kilometers total, its route tracing the shape of an eagle with outstretched wings across the map. But this 5-day highlights section captures the route's most spectacular segments in the Karwendel Alps without the month-long commitment, making it Austria's most accessible introduction to serious Alpine trekking.

What Makes it Special

You'll hike through the heart of Karwendel Nature Park, Austria's largest protected area, crossing dramatic limestone ridges with 360-degree Alpine panoramas. The route balances challenging mountain passes with comfortable valley sections, delivering varied terrain that keeps each day interesting. Lower technical demands than routes like Stubai make this achievable for fit hikers without extreme altitude experience, while the rich Tyrolean cultural element—traditional villages, mountain huts serving regional cuisine, centuries-old Alpine farming traditions—adds depth beyond pure scenery.

Key details:

Duration: 5 days
Distance: ~75km
Technical difficulty: 3/5 | Fitness level: 4/5
Cumulative elevation gain: ~5,000m
Highest point: ~2,400m
Best season: June through September

Highlights:

Karwendel Nature Park

Karwendel Nature Park covers roughly 727 square kilometers north of Innsbruck, forming the largest nature reserve in the Austrian Alps. The park's terrain rises from forested valley floors near 900 meters to the 2,749-meter Birkkarspitze, characterized by limestone plateaus, deep gorges, and limited road access. Established in 1928, it maintains strict regulations that have preserved its remote character despite proximity to urban centers. The park's northern limestone walls create a distinct visual boundary visible across the Bavarian foothills.

Hafelekar Ridge

Hafelekar sits at 2,334 meters above Innsbruck, accessible via the Nordkette cable car system that climbs directly from the city center in under 30 minutes. The exposed ridge provides immediate views across the Inn Valley, the Stubai Alps, and the Zillertal ranges without requiring technical alpine approaches. Its position on the southern edge of the Karwendel massif makes it one of the most accessible high viewpoints in the Northern Limestone Alps. The station marks the upper terminus of infrastructure built in stages between 1928 and 2007.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck sits at 574 meters in the Inn Valley, surrounded by the Nordkette range to the north and the Stubai and Tux Alps to the south. The city's compact center provides immediate cable car access to high-altitude terrain, with the Nordkette system reaching 2,334 meters in under 30 minutes. Historically a key Alpine crossing point, Innsbruck has hosted the Winter Olympics twice, in 1964 and 1976. Its central position makes it an efficient base for accessing multiple Tyrolean mountain ranges.

Best for: First-time Alpine trekkers wanting manageable introduction to hut-to-hut hiking, families with teenagers, hikers seeking varied scenery without extreme altitude challenges, anyone interested in Tyrolean cultural immersion alongside mountain beauty.

Navigation: The Adlerweg is exceptionally well-marked with eagle logos and standard red-white-red Austrian trail blazes. Information boards at stage starts and ends provide difficulty ratings, estimated times, and hut details. For comprehensive planning, see our dedicated Adlerweg hiking guide.

Experience the Eagle's Path:

5 days

Adlerweg Highlights

from 1.195 €/person

2. Emperor's Crown Trail (Kaiserkrone)

A 7-day circuit around the Wilder Kaiser massif—Tyrol's most beloved mountain range and a perfect introduction to Austrian hut culture.

Adventurous Sportive Girl hiking in Beautiful Alpine Mountains — Circular routes create a sense of progression without committing to extreme exposure

The Emperor's Crown Trail encircles the Wilder Kaiser massif in a complete loop, offering hikers the satisfaction of circumnavigating an entire mountain range while experiencing the full diversity of this legendary Tyrolean region. The trail earned its name from the crown-like profile of the Wilder Kaiser peaks visible from surrounding valleys—a distinctive silhouette that's defined Tyrol's landscape for centuries.

What Makes it Special

This route strikes an ideal balance between mountain challenge and accessibility. You'll cross high ridges with dramatic limestone wall views but avoid extremely exposed or technical terrain, making it achievable for intermediate hikers. The trail passes through active Alpine pastures (Almen) where cattle graze in summer, traditional farming huts serve fresh dairy products, and the landscape feels authentically Tyrolean. Dense beech, birch, and spruce forests alternate with open meadows and rocky ridgeline walking, creating scenic variety throughout the circuit.

The quality of mountain huts along the Emperor's Crown consistently ranks among Austria's best, with excellent food, comfortable accommodations, and spectacular positioning overlooking the Wilder Kaiser walls.

Key details:

Duration: 7 days (can be shortened to 5-6 days)
Distance: ~65km
Technical difficulty: 3/5 | Fitness level: 3/5
Cumulative elevation gain: ~5,500m
Highest point: ~2,200m
Best season: June through mid-October (longer season than high Alpine routes)

Highlights:

Wilder Kaiser Massif

The Wilder Kaiser rises between 1,200 and 2,344 meters, forming a compact limestone massif that dominates views across the northern Tyrolean lowlands. Its sheer south-facing walls and knife-edge ridges create some of the most dramatic terrain in the Northern Limestone Alps. The massif has been protected since 1963, preserving its remote character despite proximity to popular valley towns. Over 900 climbing routes and numerous via ferrata sections make it a historically significant alpine climbing area.

Ellmauer Halt

Ellmauer Halt reaches 2,344 meters, marking the highest point in the Wilder Kaiser and the highest summit in the Northern Limestone Alps north of the Inn Valley. Its exposed position and technical scrambling routes require solid rock skills and stable weather. The peak was first climbed in 1881, establishing it as a milestone in early Tyrolean alpinism. Views from the summit extend across the Inn Valley to the central Tyrolean ranges and north toward Bavaria.

Gruttenhütte

Gruttenhütte sits at 1,620 meters beneath the southern walls of the Wilder Kaiser, providing the main staging point for routes toward Ellmauer Halt and surrounding peaks. Access from the Wochenbrunner Alm involves steady forest paths before opening onto rocky terraces near the hut. Built in 1896, it remains one of the oldest active refuges in the Kaiser massif. The hut's terrace offers close views of the vertical limestone faces that define the range's southern profile.

Best for: Intermediate hikers seeking a complete circuit experience, those new to multi-day hut-to-hut treks but with decent fitness, hikers who appreciate cultural elements and traditional Alpine farming landscapes, anyone wanting excellent hut food and comfortable accommodations.

Navigation: Red trail markers throughout, well-maintained paths with steep sections secured by cables where necessary. The complete loop nature of the trail makes navigation straightforward—you're always circling the Wilder Kaiser massif with recognizable landmarks.

Circle the Emperor's Crown With Us:

7 days

Emperor’s Crown Trail

from 995 €/person

3. 3-Day Hohe Tauern Hut-to-Hut Hike

The perfect introduction to Austrian Alpine trekking—three days of spectacular Hohe Tauern scenery without the week-long commitment.

sporty group of people from behind while hiking through the forest surrounded by many green leaves — Up for a shorter hike? We've got just the option for you!

For hikers new to hut-to-hut trekking, those with limited vacation time, or anyone wanting to test Alpine hiking before committing to longer routes, this 3-day Hohe Tauern sampler delivers authentic mountain experiences in a condensed, accessible format. You'll hike through Austria's largest national park, sleep in mountain huts at spectacular high-altitude locations, and experience the rhythm of hut-to-hut travel—all in a long weekend.

What Makes it Special

Lower technical demands make this genuinely accessible to fit hikers without extensive mountain experience. You'll cross moderate passes around 2,400m with excellent trail infrastructure, experiencing high Alpine scenery without extreme exposure or difficult terrain. The concentrated intensity—three straight days of mountain immersion—creates surprising impact despite the short duration. You'll cover enough ground to feel genuine accomplishment while staying within realistic fitness requirements for most active people.

As a budget-friendly introduction to Austrian Alpine hiking, the 3-day format requires less vacation time and financial investment than week-long treks, making it ideal for testing whether hut-to-hut hiking appeals to you before booking longer adventures.

Key details:

Duration: 3 days
Distance: ~35km
Technical difficulty: 3/5 | Fitness level: 2/5
Cumulative elevation gain: ~2,500m
Highest point: ~2,400m
Best season: Late June through September

Highlights:

Hohe Tauern National Park

Hohe Tauern National Park spans 1,856 square kilometers across Carinthia, Salzburg, and Tyrol, making it the largest protected area in the Alps. Established between 1981 and 1991, the park encompasses elevations from 1,000 to 3,798 meters at the Grossglockner summit, containing extensive glacier systems, alpine meadows, and over 300 peaks above 3,000 meters. The area preserves traditional high-pasture farming alongside wilderness zones where human intervention remains minimal. Its scale and vertical range support one of the most diverse alpine ecosystems in Central Europe.

Grossglockner Views

Clear views of the Grossglockner's pyramidal summit extend across much of Carinthia and East Tyrol, with the mountain's 3,798-meter peak visible from distances exceeding 100 kilometers under favorable conditions. Viewpoints along the Grossglockner High Alpine Road and surrounding ridges offer unobstructed sightlines toward the summit and Pasterze Glacier. The mountain's isolated prominence—rising 2,400 meters above nearby valleys—creates a distinctive profile recognizable across the Eastern Alps. Its visual dominance has made it a geographic reference point in the region for centuries.

Goldbergspitze

Goldbergspitze rises to 3,254 meters in the Goldberg Group of the Hohe Tauern, with approaches crossing moderate glacier terrain from the Zittauer Hut. The summit provides expansive views across the Sonnblick massif and the upper Rauris Valley. Historical gold mining in the surrounding valleys gave the peak and region its name, with documented extraction dating back to Roman times. The mountain's accessibility and panoramic position make it a popular objective for ski touring and summer alpine ascents.

Best for: First-time hut-to-hut hikers testing Alpine trekking, weekend warriors with limited vacation time, those wanting to experience Austria's highest mountains without week-long commitment, hikers building confidence before tackling longer routes, anyone seeking budget-friendly Alpine introduction.

Navigation: Well-marked national park trails with standard Austrian red-white-red blazes. The short route and concentrated area make navigation straightforward even for those new to Alpine hiking.

Start your Alpine journey:

3 days

3-Day Hohe Tauern Hut-to-Hut Hike

2/5 Fitness

from 539 €/person

4. The Nockberge Trail

Ten days traversing the Nockberge Biosphere Reserve—Austria's most distinctive landscape of rounded green peaks and gentle Alpine pastures.

Wanderung in den Nockbergen / Kärnten — Broad Nockberge ridges reduce technical stress while extending time spent above treeline

The Nockberge (Nock Mountains) represent something completely different from Austria's dramatic limestone peaks and glaciated high Alps. These ancient, rounded mountains—geological remnants of much older rock—create a landscape of rolling green summits, flower-filled meadows, and gentle ridgeline walking at moderate elevations (1,800-2,400m). The entire region is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, protecting unique Alpine ecosystems and traditional farming practices.

What makes it special:

This is high-level ridge walking at its finest—you'll spend days traversing above treeline on broad, grassy ridges with 360-degree panoramic views extending for miles in every direction. Unlike the rocky, technical terrain of routes like Stubai, the Nockberge offers comfortable walking on soft surfaces with minimal exposure, creating a more relaxed hiking rhythm. The distinctive rounded peak shapes (Nocken) give the range its name and character—these aren't jagged Alpine spires but flowing, organic mountain forms.

The cultural element is particularly strong here—you'll pass traditional Alpine farms (Almen) where cheese-making continues using centuries-old methods, experience Carinthian hospitality known for warmth and generosity, and witness landscapes shaped by sustainable Alpine farming.

Key details:

Duration: 10 days
Distance: ~125km
Technical difficulty: 4/5 | Fitness level: 4/5
Cumulative elevation gain: ~6,500m
Highest point: ~2,441m (Eisenhut)
Best season: June through late September

Highlights on the way:

Eisenhut Peak

Eisenhut reaches 2,441 meters in the Schladminger Tauern, forming a prominent ridgeline summit above the Riesach Valley. The standard route follows well-marked trails across grassy slopes and short rocky sections without technical difficulty. Its central position offers clear sightlines toward the Dachstein massif and the main Tauern ridge. The peak has long served as a popular day-hike destination from the Preintalerhütte.

Nockberge Biosphere Reserve

The Nockberge Biosphere Reserve covers roughly 500 square kilometers in Carinthia, characterized by rounded, grassy summits known as "Nocken" that rise between 2,000 and 2,440 meters. Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2012, the area preserves traditional alpine pasture systems alongside protected core zones. The gentle terrain contrasts sharply with the jagged limestone ranges to the north, creating accessible high-altitude hiking. Its open ridges and broad meadows reflect glacial shaping and centuries of pastoral land use.

Millstätter See

Millstätter See lies at 588 meters in southern Carinthia, stretching 11.5 kilometers with depths reaching 141 meters, making it the region's deepest alpine lake. Its shoreline trails and forested slopes provide low-elevation hiking with consistent water views toward surrounding peaks. The lake's position in a glacially carved trough gives it a distinct elongated form and steep lateral walls. It has served as a summer resort area since the late 19th century.

Best for: Experienced hikers wanting extended ridge walking without technical challenges, those who appreciate Alpine farming culture and traditional landscapes, hikers seeking gentler terrain at sustained moderate altitude, anyone interested in UNESCO Biosphere Reserve ecosystems, photographers loving rolling green mountain scenery.

Navigation: Well-marked trail with consistent signage throughout. The ridge-walking nature of the route makes navigation generally straightforward with clear landmark visibility.

Discover the gentle giants:

10 days

The Nockberge Trail

4/5 Technical

from 1.390 €/person

5. The Dachstein Circuit

Ten days circumnavigating the Dachstein massif—Austria's most impressive northern limestone mountain and a journey through stunning karst landscapes.

Sonnenaufgang am Berg — Limestone terrain demands awareness even when technical difficulty appears low

The Dachstein massif at 2,995 meters forms the highest mountain in the Northern Limestone Alps, its distinctive white rock faces, extensive cave systems, and the region's only glacier creating dramatic scenery that feels distinctly different from the Central Alps' crystalline rock. This 10-day circuit completely encircles the massif, crossing high passes, traversing limestone plateaus, descending into green valleys, and offering constantly changing perspectives of the Dachstein's imposing walls.

What makes it special:

You'll experience the full spectrum of Northern Limestone Alps landscapes—stark white rock faces rising abruptly from green valleys, high karst plateaus with sinkholes and limestone pavements, deep caves and gorges, traditional Alpine villages, and the surreal experience of standing on Dachstein Glacier reached by cable car. The cultural diversity adds richness—you'll pass through regions influenced by Salzburg, Styria, and Upper Austria, each with distinct architectural styles, dialects, and food traditions.

Key details:

Duration: 10 days
Distance: ~140km
Technical difficulty: 4/5 | Fitness level: 3/5
Cumulative elevation gain: ~7,500m
Highest point: ~2,700m
Best season: Late June through mid-September

Highlights on the way:

Dachstein South Face

The Dachstein South Face rises roughly 1,000 meters above the Gosau Valley, forming one of the Northern Limestone Alps' most prominent vertical walls. Its layered limestone structure and exposure to weather systems create demanding climbing conditions and frequent rockfall zones. The face became a focal point for alpine development after major routes were established in the early 20th century. Clear views from the Gosausee highlight the wall's scale and geological stratification.

Dachstein Glacier

The Dachstein Glacier sits on the northern flank of the 2,995-meter Hoher Dachstein, forming the northernmost glacier in the Eastern Alps. Cable car access from Obertraun and Ramsau provides year-round entry to the glacier's upper basin and ice cave systems. Documented retreat since systematic measurements began in the 1850s has reduced its surface area significantly. The glacier's position and accessibility make it a reference site for long-term glacial monitoring in the limestone Alps.

Gosausee

Best for: Experienced hikers seeking a complete mountain range circumnavigation, those interested in limestone geology and karst landscapes, hikers who appreciate combining wilderness sections with valley culture, anyone wanting to experience the distinctive Northern Limestone Alps character, photographers drawn to dramatic white rock scenery.

Circle the limestone giant:

10 days

The Dachstein Circuit

4/5 Technical