Hiking areas in Austria

Have you always wanted to visit Austria and enjoy the diverse nature of this country? Then you should consider our recommendations in your planning, as Austria offers special places located in the heart of the Alps that will make any nature lover’s heart beat faster.

Karwendel (part of the Northern Limestone Alps, Tyrol/Bavaria)

The Karwendel Alpine world invites you with a wide range of hiking trails, offering a wonderful experience for every hiking enthusiast. From short hikes to multi-hour adventures, the Karwendel Alpine world has something for everyone! Enjoy a short hike (approx. 2 hours) to the viewpoint at Schwarzkopf and admire the beautiful view of the village of Krün and the surrounding mountains. You can use this moderate route from April to October.

If you'd like to go higher into the mountains, consider taking the hiking trail over the Wörnersattel to the Hochlandhütte near Mittenwald (approx. 7.5 hours). From there, you’ll have an incredible view of the alpine mountains. Be amazed high in the mountains as you take in the panoramic view. This hiking route can be taken from June to October and is considered a more challenging ascent. If you're also interested in climbing, this is also possible in the Karwendel Alpine world.

Lechquellengebirge (part of the Northern Limestone Alps, Vorarlberg)

The Lechquellengebirge entices hiking enthusiasts with routes ranging from easy to difficult, allowing you to enjoy multi-day hikes! This part of the Northern Limestone Alps has much to offer, including various lakes such as Formarinsee, Spullersee, and Körbersee. Formarinsee, in particular, is worth a visit! In 2015, it was selected as one of the most beautiful places in Austria along with the so-called Red Wall. The Red Wall is located near Lech and is the second highest mountain in the Lechquellengebirge. It earned its name due to the striking band of red limestone that is prominent on the mountain. Thus, Lech is beautiful not only in summer but also in winter. If you're also interested in skiing in Lech, feel free to browse our guide. In addition to hiking, you can explore the Lechquellengebirge with challenging mountaineering or a climbing trip.

Zillertal (Western Austria, Tyrol)

The Zillertal is probably the most well-known hiking area in Austria, located in the western part of the country. Especially the Gerlos Alpine Road offers you the fantastic opportunity to enjoy a wide view over the Zillertal and take in the beauty of nature. If you don't want to miss the Gerlos Alpine Road, note that this road is subject to a toll (Gerlospass). You can find more information here:

Another beautiful view of the Zillertal can be enjoyed via the High Road. The view of the magnificent Zillertal Alps and the enchanting nature at an altitude of 2,020 meters will surely take your breath away. But be careful, this road is also subject to a toll!

Especially charming is the hiking route with the "Water World" theme in Hintertux for families. Many adventures are hidden along the route for the little ones, such as a waterwheel or a water tap that seems to float on its own stream of water. This makes the hiking holiday enjoyable not only for the adults but also for the little ones. In addition to easy hiking routes like this one, there is a much greater variety of trails for every level. Attractive offers include the yodeling hike in Königsleiten. The route features various stations inviting you to yodel. This is considered an easy hiking route, open in the summer, and can be combined with a yodeling course. Fun for everyone!

Another special experience beyond hiking is the Spannagel Cave at the Hintertux Glacier. Here, you can descend into the cave with a professional guide and admire this natural monument up close.

Hohe Tauern National Park (Carinthia, Tyrol, Salzburg)

The Hohe Tauern National Park is a high mountain landscape adorned with a large variety of plants and animals, such as the protected Edelweiss plant and the bearded vulture. Here, you’ll find many rare treasures of flora and fauna, making this national park particularly appreciated by nature enthusiasts. Due to the park's enormous size, hiking trails for all levels are secured, extending across the regions of Carinthia, Salzburg, and Tyrol.

You should especially visit Carinthia! Experience the unique nature while hiking at the Mölltaler Glacier. You can reach the middle station at 2,234 meters with Europe’s longest underground funicular, the Glacier Express. From there, you can begin your hike, and from mid-July to the end of August, this route will reward you with the cold-resistant flora that impresses with its vibrant colors.

Since you are already in Carinthia, don’t overlook the Carinthian Lake Region! Admire the spectacular gorges like the Rabisch Gorge and explore the Land of 1,000 Lakes. Carinthia is known for its excellent bathing water quality, which you can enjoy year-round, whether in selected cold-water spots in the summer or in heated lakeside baths in the winter. Especially inviting is Lake Wörthersee, where you can plan your entire vacation. The turquoise-blue water reminds you of the beauty of the seas and provides you with absolute relaxation. The largest lake in the Carinthian Lake Region delights its many visitors every year. Furthermore, this place offers the perfect cooling off between your hikes. Take the opportunity to cool off in one of the many lakes during your hiking excursions.

Don’t forget the inviting huts you’ll encounter during your hikes. There, you can enjoy the traditional dishes of Austria and replenish your energy. It is important, despite the huts, to carry enough water with you and pack small snacks. Additionally, you should wear sturdy footwear and prevent stubborn blisters with hiking socks. Of course, adequate sun protection is essential, and even better, wear a sunhat or cap to protect yourself from sunburn.

In general, keep in mind that you’ll need a certain level of fitness depending on the hiking route. Therefore, please inform yourself in advance about the difficulty levels of the many hiking routes. If you want to take a dog with you on your trip, you should also consider this when choosing hiking trails! Hiking areas are mainly used in the mild months of the year, but always consider weather forecasts. Storms in particular pose a special danger in alpine regions!

Attention: Vignette Requirement and Route-Specific Toll

Before your arrival, please check the regulations for toll roads (such as the Gerlos Alpine Road or the High Road) and the digital vignette requirement in Austria. Order your digital vignette with us so you can use it immediately after purchase with no waiting time! Conveniently and easily from home! For more information on toll roads and tunnels in Austria, you can find it here:

Conclusion

In conclusion, all of these locations invite you to hike and will inspire you. Would you like to explore the beautiful Austrian Alps by car as well? Then we especially recommend the Zillertal with the Gerlos Alpine Road and High Road. Want to put a smile on your children's faces? Then don’t forget the "Water World" theme in the Zillertal! Are you looking for a vacation feel combined with challenging but rewarding hikes? Then the Hohe Tauern National Park, especially Carinthia, is the right choice for you. Each hiking area offers something special for everyone and will enhance your time away. Leave behind the everyday stress and enjoy the fresh air of the Alps!