20 Best Day Hikes in Austria - Journey to the Austrian Alps (original) (raw)

Hiking in Austria is far more than exercise; it’s a window into Austrian culture. As you journey on foot into the Austrian Alps, you can experience mountain pasture culture, culinary traditions, and historic mountain huts.

The Austrian Alps stretch across most of the country, with the highest peaks in the states of Tyrol, Carinthia, and Salzburg.

With so many ranges to choose from, it can be a bit daunting to figure out where to go. The mountains of Austria require lifetimes to explore.

We’re determined to uncover the best hiking trails in Austria, one summer at a time. So, below you’ll find our favorite day hikes in Austria to date, including hikes in the Wachau Valley, Zillertal Alps, Karwendel Mountains, Mieming Range, Rätikon Alps, Lechquellen Mountains, Lienz Dolomites, Dachstein, Schaldminger Tauern, Silvretta Alps, Hohe Tauern, and Radstädter Tauern.

This post will continue to grow, so do check back in at the end of the summer, or even next year.

If you’re interested in hut-to-hut hikes in Austria, read Trekking Austria and Hut to Hut Hiking in Austria.

Zillertal Alps, Austria

Best Hikes in Austria Map

How to Read this Map | Color signifies Austrian state. For example, all day hiking trails in the state of Tyrol are highlighted in coral red. Click on the trails and icons to learn more about each trail.

Hiking-Themed Austria Itineraries

Road Trips

Although Austria has an excellent public transit system (especially between cities), it can be difficult to access hiking trailheads with transit. Seasonal hiking buses often run infrequently, and stop operating altogether during shoulder seasons. Also, some trailheads are not even served by transit.

If you want to explore various hiking destinations across Austria, a car is necessary. We use the Discovercars.com car rental reservation platform to search for and book car rentals in Austria. This easy-to-use booking platform compares car rental deals from 500+ trusted providers, so that you can choose the best option for your trip. Check car rental rates here.

Use our road trip itineraries for trip planning inspiration:

Car-Free Travel

Hiking in Austria without a car is absolutely doable. It just requires more planning and less flexibility.

We’ve had successful car-free hiking trips to Schladming in Styria, Mayrhofen in Tyrol, and Lech am Arlberg in Vorarlberg.

1. Wachau Word Heritage Trail Stage 1: Dürnstein to Krems

Dürnstein, Wachau Valley World Heritage Trail, Austria

The Wachau World Heritage Trail is a 180 km long-distance hiking trail in the Wachau Valley in Lower Austria. The trail is broken down into 14 stages.

The first stage from Krems to Dürnstein is particularly scenic, because of its sweeping views of the sinuous Danube River and the steep terraced vineyards.

It’s an easy, undulating trail, suitable for everyone. Stage 1 of the World Heritage Trail leads initially up to the Dürnstein castle ruins and then through vineyards, pockets of forest, and ultimately through the wine cellar alleys of Stein and Krems.

We love this point-to-point hike because it’s picturesque, easy, and you can walk it at anytime of the year.

It’s also an excellent day trip from Vienna.

If you’re spending more time in the Wachau, also check out these trails: Vogelbergsteig and Seekopf and Hirschwand.

Trail Stats

Starting Point | Dürnstein, Wachau Valley, Lower Austria

Ending Point | Krems, Wachau Valley, Lower Austria

Distance | 12.5 km point-to-point

Time Needed | 4 – 4:30 hours

Elevation Gain | 357 meters

Elevation Loss | 361 meters

Difficulty | Easy

When to Hike | All-year-round

Where to Stay in Dürnstein | Gästezimmer Rolea (budget), or Bioweingut Schmidl (midrange)

Where to Stay in Krems | Hotel Unter Den Linden (midrange), or Klinglhuber Suites (luxury)

Learn More: Dürnstein to Krems Day Hike

2. Lünersee Circuit Trail

Lake Lünersee Alm, Vorarlberg, Austria

Lünersee is a picturesque mountain lake, embedded in the Rätikon Alps of Vorarlberg, near the Swiss border.

Ringed by striking limestone peaks and mountain pastures, Lünersee is the starting point of many interesting day hikes as well as multi-day treks.

To get to Lünersee, drive (or take the bus) to Brandnertal (Brand Valley), which runs from Bludenz to Lünersee. At the uppermost part of the valley, where the road ends, there is cableway that links Brand Valley to the lake. The Lünerseebahn cableway is typically open from late May until October.

This circuit hike around Lünersee is suitable for everyone, including families with small children. We recommend extending the hike to Schafgafall Peak for an incredible bird’s-eye view of Lünersee.

Experienced alpine hikers can hike from Lünersee to Schesaplana (2965 m), the highest mountain in the Rätikon Alps.

And, if you want to dip your toes into the transformative world of hut-to-hut hiking, then you can also start this 4-Day Rätikon High Trail Circuit.

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Douglashütte, Brand Valley, Rätikon Alps, Vorarlberg

Distance | 6.1 km circuit

Time Needed | 2 hours

Difficulty | Easy

When to Go | Late May – Late October

Where to Stay in Brand | Hotel Lün (midrange), Pension Bergkristall (midrange), or Bike and Board Lodge (luxury)

Learn More: Lünersee Hiking Guide

3. Zirbengweg – Stone Pine Path

Stone Pine Trail (Zirbenweg), Easy hike above Innsbruck, Austria

The Stone Pine Path (“Zirbenweg” in German) is a blissfully easy walking path in the Tux Alps, high above the Inntal Valley in Tyrol.

The Stone Pine Trail connects the Patscherkofelbahn mountain station with the Glungezerbahn mountain station, running at a high altitude (2000 meters) with very minimal elevation gain/loss.

It’s called the Stone Pine Trail because it leads through one of the oldest and largest stone pine stands in Europe.

This undulating panoramic trail invites you to breathe deeply, slow down, and contemplate your next Zirbenschnaps.

This easy walk is a perfect activity if you’re hiking with children, hunting for viewpoints of the Inntal Valley, visiting Hall in Tirol or Innsbruck, or simply craving fresh air.

Trail Stats

Starting Point | Patscherkofelbahn cable car mountain station, Igls, Tux Alps, Tirol

Ending Point | Glungezerbahn mountain station, Tulfes

Distance | 7 km point-to-point

Time Needed | 2:30 hours

Elevation Gain | 200 meters

Elevation Loss | 90 meters

Difficulty | Easy

When to Hike | Late May – Early October, when cable cars are operating

Where to Stay in Lans and Tulfes | Am sonnigen Waldrand in Lans (budget), B&B Appartements Glungezer in Tulfes (midrange) or Gasthof Walzl in Lans (luxury)

Where to Stay in Innsbruck | Motel One Innsbruck (budget-midrange), Faktorei (midrange-luxury), Altstadthotel Weisses Kreuz (luxury), or Weisses Rössl (luxury)

Learn More: Stone Pine Trail

4. Wolfsklamm Gorge

Wolfsklamm Gorge and Stanserbach stream, Karwendel Mountains, Austria

Wolfsklamm is a river gorge in the Karwendel Mountains in Tyrol.

The gateway to the gorge is Stans, a village in the Inntal Valley, 30 km east of Innsbruck. You can reach Stans by train, or by car.

Between May and October, hikers can enter this impressively narrow river gorge. A heavily-bolstered path, made up of stairs, railings, bridges, and fixed cables, clings to the gorge wall and steeply ascends the limestone chasm.

Like other gorge trails that require regular maintenance, there is a small entrance fee to enter (5 EUR for adults, 1.50 EUR for kids).

Due to safety reasons, it’s only possible to hike one-way up through Wolfsklamm. At the end of the trail, you can extend the hike to the Benedictine Monastery of St. Georgenberg, where there’s a restaurant. Or, you can descend immediately along the Way of the Cross via “Weng” trail.

If you’re planning a trip to Innsbruck, also check out the Nockspitze summit hike (moderately difficult) and Hundskopf summit hike (difficult).

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Parkplatz Wolfsklamm, Stans, Tyrol

Distance | 5.4 km circuit

Time Needed | 2:15 hours

Elevation Gain/Loss | 410 meters

Difficulty | Moderate

Where to Stay in Innsbruck | Motel One Innsbruck (budget-midrange), Faktorei (midrange-luxury), Altstadthotel Weisses Kreuz (luxury), or Weisses Rössl (luxury)

Learn More: Wolfsklamm Hiking Guide

5. Mühlbach High Trail (Salzburger Almenweg Stage 2) with Hochkeil Summit

Spiegelsee am Hochkeil, Salzburg, Austria

The Salzburger Almenweg is a 31-stage long-distance hiking trail in Salzburg State. As the name suggests, this is a thematic hiking trail linking the region’s Almen (alpine pastures) and Almhütten (alpine pasture huts). The entire circuit is 350 km and connects 120 mountain huts. You can hike different stages of the trail as point-to-point day hikes, like stage 2.

Stage 2 of the Salzburger Almenweg, the Mühlbach High Trail, is a particularly lovely trail at the base of the Hochkönig mountains.

The trail traverses mountain pastures and pockets of forest, passing several alpine pasture huts along the way, including the “Vier Hütten” (Four Huts).

You can start the hike at either Arthurhaus (paid car park/bus stop) high above Mühlbach am Hochkönig, or at the Erichhütte car park (free car park/bus stop) along the Hochkönigstraße road in Dienten am Hochkönig.

We parked at the Erichhütte car park and took Bus 593 to Arthurhaus and then hiked back to our car. The bus takes 40 minutes and costs 5.10 EUR per person. You can pay the bus driver directly with either cash or card.

Since this is a relatively short route, we recommend extending this hike to the Hochkeil summit from Arthurhaus, or to the Taghaube summit from Erichhütte.

Trail Stats

Starting Point | Arthurhaus, Mühlbach am Hochkönig, Hochkönig Mountains, Salzburg

Ending Point | Erichhütte Car Park, Dienten am Hochkönig

Distance | 11.2 km point-to-point

Time Needed | 3:30 hours

Elevation Gain | 226 meters

Elevation Loss | 377 meters

Difficulty | Easy

Where to Stay in Mühlbach am Hochkönig | Landhaus Rieding (midrange) Das Grünholz Aparthotel & Restaurant (luxury), Hotel Bergheimat (luxury)

Where to Stay in Dienten am Hochkönig | The Peak Hochkönig (luxury)

Learn More: Mühlbach High Trail

6. Five Huts Trail

Dachstein, Austria in late October

The 5 Huts Trail (“5 Hüttenweg” in German) is a highly enjoyable day hike in Ramsau am Dachstein in Styria.

With very little effort, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the southern slopes of the Dachstein massif, as you traverse alpine pastures, larch forests, and meadows.

Good to Know: the Bachlalm to Neustadtalm Circuit Hike overlaps with the Five Huts Trail.

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Ramsau am Dachstein, Dachstein Mountains, Styria

Distance | 14 km circuit

Time Needed | 5 hours

Elevation Gain/Loss | 887 meters

Difficulty | Easy – Moderate

When to Hike | May – October

Where to Stay in Ramsau am Dachstein | Reitercamp Ortnerhof (budget), Der Brückenhof Ramsau (midrange), or Rittis Alpin Chalets Dachstein (luxury)

Learn More: 5 Huts Trail in the Dachstein

7. Lake Tappenkarsee

Lake Tappenkarsee Hike, Salzburg, Austria

Tappenkarsee is a mountain lake nestled in the Radstädter Tauern Mountains of Austria.

This Salzburg lake is a satisfying hiking destination, because it’s cradled by rugged mountains and home to the rustic Tappenkarsee Alm (alpine pasture hut) and charming Tappenkarseehütte (mountain hut). These managed huts are usually open from early June until mid/late September.

To start the hike, drive or take a bus to Lake Jägersee in Kleinarl Valley. Jägersee is 4 km south of Kleinarl and 11.6 km south of Wagrain. If the toll road is open, continue driving 3.6 km to Schwabalm car park. If the toll road is closed, park at the Jägersee Car Park.

After hiking up a series of serpentines through a mixed forest to Tappenkarsee, follow the lakeshore to the Tappenkarsee Alm and onwards to the Tappenkarsee Hut.

Continue ascending to Draugsteintörl saddle. This trail traverses slopes and pastureland, rewarding hikers with ever-changing vistas of the lake. From the saddle, descend to Tappenkarsee Alm and return to the trailhead along the same route.

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Jägersee Car Park / Jägersee Bus Stop, Kleinarl Valley, Radstädter Tauern, Salzburg

Distance | 19.9 km lollipop-circuit

Time Needed | 7 hours

Elevation Gain/Loss | 985 meters

Difficulty | Moderate

Where to Stay in Kleinarl | Privatzimmer/Apartments Schwarzenbacher (budget) or Hotel Ennskraxblick (midrange)

Where to Stay in Wagrain | Wanderhotel Erika (midrange) or The MATTHEW – Copper Lodge (luxury)

Learn More: Tappenkarsee Trail Guide

8. Gramaialm – Lamsenjochhütte – Hahnkampel Circuit Trail

Falzturntal Valley, Karwendel Nature Park, Austria

This scenic trail in Karwendel Nature Park starts in Falzturntal Valley, accessible from Pertisau, a holiday village on the southwestern shore of Lake Achensee.

From the park at Gramai Alm (toll fee applies), the trail ascends moderately to Lamsenjochhütte (2 hours).

After lunch, or a break at the hut, the hike continues to the Western Lamsenjoch saddle, which is the starting point of the Hahnkampl ridge trail.

With sweeping views of Grosser Ahornboden and the impressive Hinterautal-Vomper-Kette chain of the Karwendel range, the trail progresses along the ridge to the Hahnkampl summit. The initial descent in the direction of Binssattel is rugged, but quickly smooths out.

From the Binssattel saddle, the trail crosses mountain pastures to reach the Gramai-Hochleger hut. The descent continues to Gramaialm.

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Gramai Alm, Pertisau

Distance | 11.1 km circuit

Time Needed | 4:45 hours

Elevation Gain/Loss | 869 meters

Difficulty | Moderate-Moderately Difficult

Minimum Elevation | 1262 meters

Maximum Elevation | 2080 meters

Learn More: Gramaialm – Hahnkampl Circuit Hike

9. Hofpürgl Hut to Sulzenalm Circuit Trail

Rinderfeld, Dachstein, Salzburg, Austria

This grand circuit hike in Filzmoos runs along the base of Bischofsmütze and Gosaustein in the Dachstein Mountains.

It starts at the end of the Hofalm toll road (5.50 EUR per car, cash only), north of Filzmoos.

The hike begins with a steady ascent to Hofpürglhütte (1705 m), the refuge perched on a ridge beneath the Bischofsmütze twin peaks.

As you gain elevation, the Gosaukamm/Dachstein range seems to spread its wings like a butterfly. After hiking up to Hofpürglhütte (50 minutes), the route follows the Linzerweg (Linzer Steig) across the boulder-filled Kesselwand beneath Bischofsmütze.

The undulating path continues east across graben, spurs, and boulder fields to Rinderfeld, a huge sprawling pasture below soaring limestone walls. After crossing this gorgeous meadow, the trail drops below the treeline and then zigzags up to the Sulzenschneid Spur.

Crest he spur and continue to the highest point, Eiskarlschneid, marked by a summit cross.

The trail descends to the Sulzenhals saddle and wanders through dwarf pine and later larches to reach the rolling pasture area of Sulzenalm.

Sulzenalm is home to two enticing huts, Wallehenhütte and Krahlehenhütte, which serve delicious meals throughout the day.

From Sulzenalm, it’s a 45-minute descent to Hofalm.

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Hofalm, Filzmoos, Dachstein Mountains, Salzburg

Distance | 12.9 km circuit

Time Needed | 5:15 hours

Difficulty | Moderate

Elevation Gain/Loss | 912 meters

When to Hike | June – October, depending on weather conditions

Where to Stay in Filzmoos | Bauernhof Krahlehenhof (midrange), Das Anja Alt Filzmoos (midrange), meiZeit Lodge (luxury)

Learn More: Hofpürgl Hut to Sulzenalm Circuit Hike

10. Lake Formarinsee to Lake Spullersee

Lake Formarinsee to Lake Spullersee, Lech am Arlberg, Austria

The day hike from Lake Formarinsee to Lake Spullersee gives you an outstanding overview of the enchanting Lechquellen Mountains in Vorarlberg. The River Lech originates within the range at Lake Formarinsee, which is why it’s called “Lech Source Mountains.”

From the village of Lech am Arlberg, take bus 7 to Formarinsee. These buses don’t run very frequently, so make sure to plan ahead. From the bus stop, hike around Lake Formarinsee to the mountain hut Freiburger Hütte. Enjoy the views of Rote Wand, the “red wall” mountain.

Starting at Freiburger hut, the trail ascends gently through wildflower-carpeted slopes and alpine pastures to Steinernes Meer (“Stone Sea”), an impressive karst landscape. After traversing the Stone Sea, continue your ascent to the Gehrengrat mountain ridge. Next, follow the ridge downhill in the direction of Lake Spullersee.

We love this Austrian hike, because of the romantic alpine scenery and the interesting and varied terrain.

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Lake Formarinsee, Zugertal Valley, Lechquellen Mountains, Vorarlberg

Distance | 11.4 km point-to-point

Time Needed | 4:30 – 5 hours

Elevation Gain | 637 meters

Elevation Loss | 673 meters

Difficulty | Moderate – Difficult, depending on weather conditions

When to Hike | Late June – Late September, when the hiking buses are operating

Where to Stay in Lech am Arlberg | Lech Hostel (budget), Haus Braunarl (midrange), Hotel Auenhof (luxury), or Hotel Berghof (luxury)

Learn More: Formarinsee to Spullersee Day Hike

11. Glacier Trail Pasterze

Hohe Tauern National Park, Austria

The spellbinding Glacier Trail Pasterze (Gletscherweg Pasterze) is located in Hohe Tauern National Park, just off the Grossglockner High Alpine Road.

Well-marked and easy-to-follow, the hike delivers unbeatable views of Austria’s highest mountain, Grossglockner (3798 m), and the rapidly receding Pasterze Glacier.

This route is also part of the first stage of the Alpe Adria long-distance trail, which starts at Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe and ends in Heiligenblut.

Though you can hike in either direction, we recommend starting at the Glocknerhaus, because the views unfold spectacularly as you near the foot of Grossglockner.

Initially, the trail descends from Glocknerhaus to the Margaritzenstausee reservoir and then continues left along the water and over two reservoir cement walls. The water of Pasterze Glacier feeds Margaritzenstausee.

Next, the trail ascends to Lake Sandersee, where there’s an impressive view of Pasterze and Grossglockner.

Continue all the way up to Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe. It’s possible to take a regional bus back to Glocknerhaus. However, these busses are very infrequent (max 3 per day).

Inside Glocknerhaus, there’s a timetable for the regional bus, which you can check before you set off.

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Glocknerhaus (2132 m), Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Hohe Tauern National Park, Carinthia

Distance | 7.8 km circuit

Time Needed | 3 hours

Elevation Gain/Loss | 444 meters

Difficulty | Moderate

When to Hike | June – September, when the Grossglockner High Alpine Road is open

Where to Stay in Heiligenblut am Großglockner | Wallackhaus RegioJet Hotels (budget), Hotel Kaiservilla (midrange), or Nationalpark Lodge Grossglockner (luxury)

12. Gaistal Valley – Rotmoosalm – Wetterstein Hut Circuit Trail

Rotmoosalm Hut Views, Wetterstein Mountains, Austria

This day hike in the Wetterstein Mountains of Tyrol links together picturesque mountain pastures and mountain huts: Hämmermoosalm, Rotmoosalm, Wangalm, and Wettersteinhütte.

The trail starts near near Leutasch and Seefeld in Tirol in Gaistal, the valley that runs between the Mieminger Chain and the Wetterstein Gebirge.

The whole route is enjoyable and varied, weaving across boulder-studded slopes, high meadows, and mixed forests. Views of the towering Wetterstein Massif South Wall will leave a lasting impression.

Though there are some steep ascents and the trail is long, there is no technical difficulty.

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Salzbach Car Park in Gaistal (P5), Leutasch, Tyrol

Distance | 17.6 km lollipop-circuit

Time Needed | 6:30 hours

Elevation Gain/Loss | 910 meters

Difficulty | Moderate

When to Hike | June – October

Where to Stay in Seefeld in Tirol | Hotel Residence Metropol (budget), Apart Simon Seefeld (budget), Tiroler Weinstube (midrange), Summit Seefeld (midrange-luxury), or Hotel Klosterbräu (luxury), Nidum Casual Luxury Hotel (top choice – read our Nidum Hotel Review)

Learn More: Gaistal – Rotmoosalm Circuit Trail

13. Hohes Rad Circuit Trail

Hohes Rad Circuit Hike, Silvretta Alps, Austria

Hohes Rad (“High Wheel”) is a mountain in the Silvretta Alps. The peak straddles the border between Tirol and Vorarlberg.

A wonderful hiking trail wraps around Hohes Rad (2934 m), starting at Silvretta Bielerhöhe (2037 m), a high mountain pass connecting Montafon Valley in Vorarlberg with Paznaun Valley in Tirol.

From the Silvretta Reservoir, the trail gently ascends Bieltal Valley to the Radsattel mountain saddle. From the saddle, you can detour to the summit of Hohes Rad (3 hours out-and-back) – a challenging peak hike best undertaken by experienced hikers.

The circuit trail continues over the Rad saddle, ultimately descending to Wiesbadener Hütte (2443 m), a mountain refuge set amidst a frozen world of ice, water, and rock. From this impressive mountaineering hut, the trail descends the Ochsental Valley back to the Silvretta Reservoir.

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Silvretta Bielerhöhe (2037 m), Silvretta Alps, Vorarlberg & Tirol

Distance | 14.8 km circuit

Time Needed | 5 hours

Elevation Gain/Loss | 720 meters

Difficulty | Moderate

When to Hike | Late June/early July – Late September, when the Silvretta High Alpine Road is open.

Where to Stay in Schruns-Tschagguns | TUI Blue Montafon (budget), Gasthof Löwen (midrange), Amrai Suites (luxury)

Learn More: Hohes Rad Circuit Trail

14. Lake Drachensee and Lake Seebensee Circuit Trail

Lake Drachensee, Tyrol, Austria

This outstanding circuit trail around Tajakopf mountain links together three mountain lakes: Lake Brendlsee, Lake Drachensee, and Lake Seebensee.

Starting at the Ehrwald Almbahn gondola mountain station, the trail meanders gently through forest before ascending the Ganghofersteig trail to the Brendlkar cirque and then eventually up to the Tajatörl saddle.

This long ascent is somewhat taxing, but there’s no technical difficulty. Hikers should nonetheless be sure-footed and confident in scree.

With the hard part behind you, the trail descends to Lake Drachensee and Coburger Mountain Hut. You’ll face Lake Drachensee the whole time – which is why it’s critical to hike this circuit clockwise.

From the managed Coburger mountain hut, the trail steeply descends to Lake Seebensee and then returns to the Ehrwald Alpine Pasture along easy, forest trails.

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Ehrwalder Almbahn mountain station, Mieming Chain, Tirol

Distance | 14.9 km lollipop-circuit

Time Needed | 5:30 hours

Elevation Gain/Loss | 909 meters

Difficulty | Moderate – Moderately Difficult

When to Hike | June – October

Where to Stay in Ehrwald | Haus Tirol Ehrwald (budget), Hotel Alpen Residence (midrange), or Der Grüne Baum Mountain Boutique Hotel (luxury)

Learn More: Lake Drachensee Hike

15. Spuller Schafberg Peak

Spuller Schafberg to Ravensburger mountain hut hiking trail, Austria

Spuller Schafberg (2679 m) is a popular summit hike, starting at the high-altitude reservoir Lake Spullersee in the Lechquellen Mountains, easily accessible by bus from Lech am Arlberg.

The hike begins with an easy hike to Ravensburger Hütte (45 minutes). From the hut, it’s a 2:15 hour ascent to the peak. The hike to the summit is straightforward, though definitely requires stamina. The terrain is mostly tussock slopes, though there’s some karst pavement to contend with.

The highlight of this hike is the long ridge path to Spuller Schafberg. Along the ridge, views extend to the Verwall and Rätikon Alps.

Trail Stats

Starting Point | Lake Spullersee, Lechquellen Mountains, Vorarlberg

Ending Point | Zug

Distance | 12.3 km point-to-point

Time Needed | 5 hours

Elevation Gain | 980 meters

Elevation Loss | 1291 meters

Difficulty | Moderate/Moderately Difficult (Vorarlberg Blue Trail)

When to Hike | Late June – Late September

Where to Stay in Lech am Arlberg | Lech Hostel (budget), Haus Braunarl (midrange), Hotel Auenhof (luxury), or Hotel Berghof (luxury)

Learn More: Spuller Schafberg Peak

16. Innergschlöss Glacier Trail

Badener Hütte – Neue Prager Hütte Hiking Trail, Venediger High Trail Trek, Austria

This secret day hike in Hohe Tauern National Park is hands down one of the best hikes in Austria.

From the Matreier Tauernhaus hotel and restaurant, take the Venediger Taxi to Innergschlöss (5 EUR one-way).

The glacier trail begins in the storybook hamlet of Innergschlöss. From here follow a circuit trail past rivers, waterfalls, and lakes and ultimately to a spectacular glacier lookout point.

You’ll be able to spot the prominent peaks of the Venediger Group, including Austria’s second-highest mountain: Grossvenediger (3666 m).

The Innergschlöss glacier trail marked the final stages of our Venediger High Trail trek, a multi-day hike in the Venediger Group. And, it was the absolute best part of the entire trek.

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Matreier Tauernhaus, Hohe Tauern National Park, East Tyrol

Distance | 9.1 km lollipop-circuit

Time Needed | 4 hours

Difficulty | Moderately Difficult

Elevation Gain/Loss | 600 meters

When to Hike | June – September

Where to Stay in Matrei in Osttirol | Zedlacherhof (budget), Matreier Tauernhaus (midrange), or Naturhotel Outside (luxury)

Learn More: Innergschlöss Glacier Trail

17. Olpererhütte and Friesenberghaus

Olpererhütte, Zillertal Alps, Austria

This excellent loop trail begins at the Schlegeis Reservoir (1785 m), accessible by car, or bus from Mayrhofen in Zillertal.

While most Olpererhütte visitors will hike the short, direct route to the hut, we recommend hiking first to Friesenberghaus. From here, you’ll join the Berlin High Trail and hike along a breathtaking balcony trail to Olpererhütte.

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Schlegeis Stausee, Zillertal Alps, Tirol

Distance | 13 km circuit

Time Needed | 7 hours

Elevation Gain/Loss | 820 meters

Difficulty | Moderately Difficult

When to Hike | Mid-Late June – Early October, when the Schlegeis Alpine Toll Road is open.

Where to Stay in Mayrhofen | Hotel Garni Glück Auf (budget), Der Siegeler B&B – this lifestylehotel rocks (midrange), Alpenhotel Kramerwirt (luxury), or ZillergrundRock Luxury Mountain Resort (luxury)

Learn More: Olpererhütte Hiking Guide

18. Gamsjoch Peak

Gamsjoch Peak Hike, Karwendel Mountains, Austria

Gamsjoch (2452 m) is a three-headed mountain in Karwendel Nature Park in Tirol. The summit rewards hikers with sweeping views of Hinterautal-Vomper-Kette, which is the largest mountain chain in the Karwendel Mountains.

The western summit of Gamsjoch (2438 m) is a popular peak hike in the Eastern Karwendel Mountains because of its proximity to the Eng Almdorf (Eng alpine pasture village) and Grosser Ahornboden (Great Maple Floor), a large plain studded with 2,300 sycamore maple trees.

This day hike begins at the Eng Alpine Pasture at the end of Hinterisstal Valley, accessible via a toll road from Vorderrisstal Valley Bavaria, Germany.

Hikers have the option to ascend to Gamsjoch via Hochljoch saddle (the easier, but longer option), or via the unmarked Gumpenkar stream bed/cirque (unmarked and painfully steep, but shorter option).

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Die Eng – Alpengasthof und Naturhotel, Hinterriß, Großer Ahornboden, Karwendel Mountains, Tirol

Distance | 13.8 km circuit

Time Needed | 6:30 – 8:30 hours

Elevation Gain/Loss | 1324 meters

Difficulty | Difficult. You need stamina, a head for heights, and good trail intuition.

Where to Stay | Die Eng – Alpengasthof und Naturhotel (midrange), or Gasthof zur Post (midrange) in Hinterriss

Learn More: Gamsjoch Peak Hike

19. Rötelstein Peak

Rötelstein Peak Hike, Filzmoos, Austria

Rötelstein (2247 m), also called Rettenstein, is a mountain northeast of Filzmoos in Salzburg. It stands just south of the Dachstein massif and thus offers one of the most riveting views of the Gosaukamm and Dachstein South Face.

The Rötelstein summit hike is thrilling and demanding. Hikers must be comfortable scrambling and tackling broken rock and scree terrain.

Starting at the Rettensteinhütte (only open in winter) car park, the trail ascends continuously up forest and pastureland to reach the southwest slope of Rötelstein. For an hour, the trail follows the main crest to the summit, alternating between scrambling and hiking passages.

It’s an exciting and lengthy approach with great views along the way. The final stretch to the summit unfolds rather magnificently, as you come face to face with Torstein (2948 m), Mitterspitz (2925 m), and Hoher Dachstein (2995 m).

The hike continues north across the summit of Rötelstein.

The soft grassy trail turns to loose rock as the path drops steeply down the northeast side of the mountain. Waymarks steer hikes through scrambling passages and across broken rock and scree to the Sulzenhals saddle.

From the saddle, it’s an easy jaunt to Sulzenalm, where you can grab a bite to eat at Wallehenhütte or Krahlehenhütte. The Kaiserschmarrn is sensation at both huts.

At the trail junction across from Krahlehenhütte, turn left. The trail wraps around the Mandlinghofalm pasture, backed by the iconic Bischofsmütze – the twin peaks shaped like a bishop’s hat/mitre.

The way to Rettensteinhütte passes easily through forest and meadows. The final leg follows a forest road and ultimately a paved road back to the starting point.

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Rettensteinhütte car park, Filzmoos, Dachstein Mountains, Salzburg

Distance | 9.8 km circuit

Time Needed | 5 hours

Elevation Gain/Loss | 937 meters

Difficulty | Difficult

Where to Stay in Filzmoos | Bauernhof Krahlehenhof (midrange), Das Anja Alt Filzmoos (midrange), meiZeit Lodge (luxury)

Learn More: Rötelstein Peak Hike

20. Seekarspitze – Seebergspitze Ridge Trail

Seekarspitze to Seebergspitze ascent, Achensee, Tirol, Austria

Seekarspitze and Seebergspitze are the mountains that border the western side of Lake Achensee, the largest lake in Tyrol.

A riveting ridge trail links the two Karwendel summits, running north to south.

This spine-clinging high trail offers sweeping views of the Karwendel range and Rofan mountains as well as bird’s-eye views of Achensee.

The Seekarspitze-Seeberspitze day hike starts in Achenkirch, the village on the north side of the lake, and ends in Pertisau, the village on the southwest side of the lake. It’s easy to access the Achenkirch trailhead by bus, if you’re staying in Maurach, or Pertisau.

This 12.4 km point-to-point trail is a considerably tough hike, because of the tremendous elevation gain and loss (1300 meters). The trail is rugged at times and you will need to use your hands to scramble up steep sections.

For equally beautiful summit views, but far less challenging, check out the Bärenkopf peak hike. We also love the Hochiss peak hike in the Rofan Mountain, on the other side of the lake.

Trail Stats

Starting Point | Achenkirch

Ending Point | Pertisau

Distance | 12.4 km point-to-point

Time Needed | 6:30 hours

Elevation Gain/Loss | 1300 meters

Difficulty | Difficult

Where to Stay in Pertisau | Seehotel St. Hubertus (midrange), Hotel Bergland (midrange), Hotel Auszeit (Adults-only luxury – read our Hotel Auszeit Review), Seehotel Einwaller – adults only (Adults-only luxury – read our Seehotel Einwaller Review), or NOVA Moments Boutique Hotel (luxury)

Learn More: Seekarspitze to Seebergspitze Hike

More Austrian Hiking Trails

Giglach Lakes

Ignaz-Mattis Hütte, Lower Giglach Lake, Schladminger Tauern, Austria - Best Day Hikes in Austria

This delightful hike takes you to and around the Giglach Lakes: Oberer Giglachsee (Upper Giglach Lake) and Unterer Giglachsee (Lower Giglach Lake) in the Schladminger Tauern mountains.

From the high alpine pasture Ursprungalm (1601 m), accessible by bus, or by car via a toll road (18 EUR per car), it only takes 1 hour to hike to the Giglach Lakes.

We highly suggest taking the bus from Schladming or Rohrmoos to Ursprungalm. If you stay in a hotel like Thalers Mariandl, you’ll receive a complimentary Schladming-Dachstein Summer Card, which gives you free use of regional hiking buses, including the bus to Ursprungalm.

Depending on the weather and snow conditions, this toll road will open by mid/end of May and closes for the winter by mid-October. In 2021, they didn’t open the road until mid-June, because of snow.

From the enchanting Ursprungalm, follow the wide gravel track uphill to the lakes. The trail isn’t difficult, but it’s continuously uphill.

You’ll first arrive at Giglachseen Hütte, a mountain hut located just above the Upper Giglach Lake. You can take a break there, or continue 20 minutes to Ignaz-Mattis Hütte, a mountain hut perched above the Lower Giglach Lake. This is an ideal location for lunch.

From here, you can continue hiking to the end of the Lower Giglach Lake and then circuit the lake in the direction of Giglachseen Hütte. This route marks the first (alternative) stage of the multi-day Schladminger Tauern High Trail.

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Ursprungalm, Schladminger Tauern, Styria

Distance | 8.2 km lollipop-circuit

Time Needed | 3 hours

Difficulty | Easy

Elevation Gain/Loss | 415 meters

When to Hike | June – Mid-October, depending on snow conditions.

Where to Stay in Schladming | Winzig Apartment (budget), TUI Blue Schladming (midrange), or Thalers Mariandl (midrange-luxury), Boutiquehotel Stadthotel brunner (luxury), or JOHANN Schladming (luxury)

Learn More: Schladming Summer Hiking Guide

Karlsbader Hütte

Lienz Dolomites, East Tyrol, Austria - Best Day Hikes in Austria

Overlooking Laserzsee Lake, Karlsbader Hütte (2260 m) is an undeniably scenic mountain hut in the Lienz Dolomites. This mountain group is part of the Gailtal Alps and is situated on the southern border of Austria, close to Italy. The name is rather misleading because these mountains are limestone and actually do not contain any Dolomite rock, despite their appearance.

To begin this hike, drive up the toll road to the mountain hut Dolomitenhütte (1616 m), an upscale refuge located high above the town of Lienz.

There’s a parking lot very close to Dolomitenhütte. From here, follow the road. After about 20 minutes, you’ll reach an intersection, where a hiking path continues straight (signed “Steig”) and the road continues left. Follow the trail.

The views get increasingly more riveting as you near the limestone crags and pinnacles framing Karlsbader Hütte. It’s a paradise of stone. During the hiking season, Karlsbader Hütte is open for overnight guests and serves food and refreshments. You’ll likely see mountaineers gathered here, as this is a popular starting point for climbing.

When we arrived in mid-June, Laserzsee was still mostly ice. The snowfall made it difficult to explore the area more extensively. If you visit later in the summer, definitely follow the trail around the lake for the best viewpoints of the hut.

Trail Stats

Trailhead | Dolomitenhütte, Lienz, Lienz Dolomites, East Tyrol

Distance | 8.6 km out-and-back

Time Needed | 3 – 4 hours

Elevation Gain/Loss | 660 meters

Difficulty | Moderate

When to Hike | Late June – October

Where to Stay in Lienz |City Zimmer – Appartement Dina Mariner (budget), Apartmenthaus Nr 1 (midrange), or Parkhotel Tristachersee (luxury)

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