The best walks and hikes in the High Tauern

The High Tauern offers a wide range of trails suitable for various fitness levels. You'll find easy nature trails, moderate paths, and challenging high-alpine routes. For instance, the Geotrail Tauernfenster is an easy option, while the Innergschlöss Glacier Trail is considered difficult, leading through pristine valleys towards glacial landscapes.

Yes, the High Tauern is renowned for its powerful waterfalls. The most famous are the Krimml Waterfalls, Europe's highest, cascading down 380 meters. You can experience them up close on routes like the Krimmler Waterfall Way. Other impressive waterfalls include the Umbalfälle and the Schrabach Waterfall.

Absolutely. The region provides many accessible trails suitable for families. These often include educational theme trails that provide insights into the region's nature and history. Look for routes with lower elevation gain and shorter distances, such as the easy sections of the Krimml Waterfall Trail or nature trails in the valleys.

Generally, dogs are permitted on hiking trails in the High Tauern National Park, but they must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and other hikers. Always check specific trail regulations or local signage, especially in sensitive areas or near grazing livestock.

Yes, many trails in the High Tauern are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. These often include opportunities to stop at mountain huts. For example, the Hike into Seebachtal offers a pleasant loop experience.

Many trailheads in the High Tauern are accessible by car, often with designated parking areas. Public transport, including buses, also serves various valleys and starting points within the National Park, making it possible to reach many trails without a private vehicle. Some higher-altitude areas can even be reached via cable cars, reducing the initial ascent.

The High Tauern is rich in natural wonders. You can expect to see majestic peaks like the Grossglockner, vast glaciers such as the Pasterze, and tranquil mountain lakes like Grünsee or Dorfersee. The From Kals a. G. Taurer to the Dorfersee lake route is a great example. The region also features unique ecosystems like the Rauriser Primeval Forest and diverse valleys such as the Obersulzbachtal and Innergschlöss.

The prime hiking season in the High Tauern typically runs from late spring (June) to early autumn (September/October). During these months, trails are generally free of snow, and the weather is more stable. Summer offers lush alpine meadows and warmer temperatures, while early autumn provides stunning fall foliage and clearer views. High-alpine routes may still have snow patches in early summer.

The High Tauern National Park is a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for the 'Big Five': ibex, chamois, marmot, golden eagle, and bearded vulture. The diverse ecosystems support around 3,500 plant species, including larch-pine forests and a wide array of alpine wildflowers and lichens, especially vibrant in spring and summer.

Yes, the High Tauern region has numerous mountain huts and shelters, providing opportunities for rest, refreshments, and overnight stays on longer tours. These huts are often strategically located along popular routes. Examples include the Kalser Tauernhaus or the Rudolfshütte Mountain Hotel.

The High Tauern is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 25,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the breathtaking views of majestic peaks and glaciers, the impressive waterfalls, and the well-maintained network of trails. The chance to observe diverse wildlife in its natural habitat is also a frequently mentioned highlight.

Yes, the High Tauern offers numerous spectacular viewpoints. The Edelweissspitze Summit, accessible via the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, provides incredible panoramic vistas. Other routes, like the Gamsgrubenweg, offer stunning views of the Grossglockner itself and the Pasterze Glacier.