Hiking in Austria: Brand New Trails and Special Adventures

In Austria, being active in nature is in the locals’ DNA, or, as we like to say, it’s part of our lifestyle, our “Lebensgefühl”. Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities and it’s easy to see why: There’s no equipment needed apart from sturdy shoes and some layers, and you can often head off just at your doorstep. Plus, beginner or pro, there will always be a trail that suits, with stunning landscapes and vistas all along the way.  

Have a look at what Austria has to offer for hiking fans this year, from brand new trails to leisurely hikes and multi-day adventures for those looking to really test their limits!


NEW HIKING TRAILS IN AUSTRIA

Been there, done that? Austria’s holiday regions make sure both first timers and regulars can choose from new offers every year. Here are the latest additions.

• The Wipp Traverse leads from the Stubai Valley to South Tirol and takes six days to complete. What makes it unique: Hikers spend the first nights at the same hotel and can therefore set off with a light daypack. The bus takes them to their starting point in the morning and back to the hotel in the evening. The final night is spent in a hut at 1,900 m above sea level.
   
• The Alpe-Adria-Trail, a popular week-long tour through Carinthia, can now be completed (almost) carbon-free. From this summer, there’s a new eco-friendly package on offer, including arrival and return by train, overnight stays in sustainable guest houses serving regional and seasonal cuisine, and luggage transfer with electrical vehicles.
   
• The Höfe Trail East Tirol, a leisurely hike from farm to farm to be completed in five days, has been extended into Carinthia’s Lesachtal Valley with two new stages. Hikers can now also book luggage transfers and additional overnight stays which are especially aimed at families.

ONE-DAY HIKING ADVENTURES FROM EASY TO DIFFICULT 

Take it easy or test your limits? Here are some popular hiking trails for families, beginners, and experts.  

• The Idalpe – Paznauner Taja Tour in Ischgl is an easy tour leading to a mountain lodge, serving all the local delights.
   
• One of the most popular hiking trails in Schladming – Dachstein leads to the Riesach Waterfall, the highest in Styria (140 m), with a suspension bridge and viewing platforms along the way (not suited for small children).
   
• The best skiers in the world take on Kitzbühel’s Streif as part of the Hahnenkamm race. In summer, however, the famous downhill run turns into a hiking hotspot. The hikers set off at the starting house and make their way all the way down, with info signs telling the story of the Streif along the way.
   
• In Zell am See – Kaprun, experienced hikers can take on the Alexander Enzinger Trail, a challenging high trail from the Kitzsteinhorn to the Maiskogel in Kaprun, with a great variety of alpine flora rewarding them for the sweaty workout.

MULTI-DAY HIKING TOURS FOR ADVENTURERS

Looking for the ultimate challenge? The following trails are aimed at experienced hikers ready to be out and about for up to a week.

• Three days, five villages, 50 kilometres: The Arlberg Trail connects the five Arlberg resorts of Lech, Zürs, Stuben, St. Christoph and St. Anton, with spectacular alpine views all along the way. Luggage transfer and easier shortcuts are available.
   
• The Koasa Trail in the St. Johann in Tirol region is a five-day adventure around the impressive Wilder Kaiser suitable for intermediate hikers. Highlights waiting to explore include the mysterious Devil’s Lane, the Griesbachklamm gorge and the Eifersbacher waterfall.
   
• Up for an even longer adventure? The Berlin High Trail in Zillertal leads right through the heart of the High Moutain Nature Park Zillertal Alps, the largest association of nature reserves in the Alps. Hikers can rest their legs (and indulge in a foodie feast) at Tirol’s largest hut, the Berliner Hütte. The trail is 85 km long and takes about a week to complete.
   

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