Exceptional European Nation Suggested by Rick Steves for Memorable Mountain Treks
Unforgettable Hiking Adventures in the Austrian Alps
The Austrian Alps offer a diverse range of hiking trails, breathtaking views, and authentic experiences for hikers of all skill levels. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you plan an unforgettable hiking adventure.
Recommended Trails
- Zirbenweg (Stone Pine Trail), Tux Alps, Tyrol This easy 7 km trail at high altitude (~2000m) offers panoramic views of the Inntal Valley. Ideal for families or a relaxed hike, it can be completed in around 2.5 hours. Start at Patscherkofelbahn mountain station (Igls) and end at Glungezerbahn mountain station (Tulfes).
- Ötztal Trek Highlights This 6-day, 5-night hut-to-hut trek in the Ötztal Alps features dramatic glacier and peak views, including Tyrol’s highest peak, Wildspitze. With moderate technical (3/5) and fitness level (3/5), it's a challenging yet rewarding adventure.
- Eagle Walk, Tyrol A legendary long-distance trail of 413 km with 33 stages, the Eagle Walk crosses Tyrol from St. Johann in Tirol to St Anton am Arlberg. It combines snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, valleys, and historic villages.
Transportation
Access the Austrian Alps by air and rail. Major airports include Innsbruck Airport, Salzburg Airport, and Munich Airport (Germany, close to the Austrian border). Local transport like cable cars and mountain railways serve trailheads, and regular regional trains and buses connect towns, facilitating access to trail starting points.
Accommodations
Along the trails, mountain huts with half-board service are typical on multi-day hikes. Nearby towns offer a range of accommodations, from budget to luxury options.
Planning Tips
Choose trails matching your fitness and technical skill level. The best hiking season is generally late spring to early autumn (May–October). Prepare for unpredictable mountain weather, book accommodations in advance during peak season, and enjoy regional cuisine and drinks for a complete cultural experience.
Mountain hiking requires specific endurance, even for seasoned gym-goers, and respect for the terrain is essential. Schneeberg, the highest peak in Lower Austria, is an ideal alpine escape, just 1.5 hours by train from Vienna.
To reach Zugspitze summit, consider taking the cable car from Ehrwald, accessible via public transport. The town Garmisch-Partenkirchen is the best place to start a hike up Zugspitze and is accessible with public transport from major Austrian cities, including Salzburg. Zugspitze, Germany's tallest mountain, is recommended by Rick Steves for alpine views.
Dress in layers, wear proper hiking boots, and bring poles for steeper routes. Cozy Hütten and welcoming restaurants are available along the Zugspitze hiking route. Schneeberg is a mountain town tucked in the Austrian Alps, with a full hike from Puchberg am Schneeberg to the summit, Klosterwappen, taking about seven hours. The Salamander Train can be taken to skip lower trails and start closer to the Schneeberg summit, taking you 6,000 feet above sea level.
By selecting one or more of these trails and combining air/train access with local cable cars, and staying in authentic alpine huts or towns, you can create a personalized, unforgettable hiking adventure in the Austrian Alps.
Traveling to the Austrian Alps offers an exciting lifestyle that revolves around unforgettable travel experiences, with hiking being a popular activity. Whether you're looking for leisurely strolls or challenging multi-day treks, travel guides can help plan your adventure on trails like the Zirbenweg, Ötztal Trek Highlights, and Eagle Walk, each offering breathtaking views and authentic experiences.
