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Meraner Höhenweg: Hans-Frieden-Felsenweg
01:24
4.52km
170m
Hiking
Hike the Meraner Höhenweg: Hans-Frieden-Felsenweg, an easy 2.8-mile trail with 562 feet of elevation gain, offering panoramic views of Meran
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Naturpark Texelgruppe - Parco naturale Gruppo di Tessa
Waypoints
Start point
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6 m
View from Hochmuth of Merano and the Adige Valley
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244 m
View of Merano and the Adige Valley from Hochmuth Panoramic Platform
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1.88 km
View of the Valley Above Grabbach
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Great view.
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2.25 km
Leiteralm
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4.52 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.49 km
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
4.41 km
< 100 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Friday 29 May
32°C
14°C
19 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 9.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How challenging is the Meraner Höhenweg: Hans-Frieden-Felsenweg trail?
This section of the Meraner Höhenweg is considered moderate to challenging. It features rocky, steep mountain terrain with exposed sections secured by ropes and chains. Hikers need to be sure-footed and have a good head for heights. While some parts are well-maintained, caution is advised, especially during wet conditions or after heavy rain due to potential rockfall.
What are the main access points for this section of the Meraner Höhenweg?
The Hans-Frieden-Felsenweg typically connects important points like the Hochmuth restaurant and the Leiteralm mountain hut. You can often access it from Vellau/Velloi, with options to return via a gondola basket lift. The route is also accessible from the Hochmuth cable car station.
What viewpoints and landmarks can I expect along the route?
The trail offers spectacular panoramic views. You'll encounter the View from Hochmuth of Merano and the Adige Valley, the View of Merano and the Adige Valley from Hochmuth Panoramic Platform, and the View of the Valley Above Grabbach. On clear days, you might even see the Dolomites and the Ortler Massif. The Leiteralm is also a notable hut along the way.
Is the Hans-Frieden-Felsenweg suitable for dogs?
While dogs are generally allowed on trails in the region, the Hans-Frieden-Felsenweg has exposed, rocky sections secured with ropes and chains. This terrain can be challenging for dogs, especially if they are not accustomed to such conditions or if they are large. Always keep dogs on a leash and ensure they are capable of navigating steep, uneven paths.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The ideal time to hike this trail is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). Avoid hiking during snow, ice, or extremely hot summer days. Heavy rain can also increase the risk of rockfall and make the trail slippery, so check weather forecasts before you go.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for the Texel Group Nature Park?
No, there are generally no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike within the Texel Group Nature Park, which encompasses this trail. However, always respect local regulations, stay on marked paths, and protect the natural environment.
Does this trail intersect with other well-known paths?
Yes, the Hans-Frieden-Felsenweg is an integral part of the longer Meraner Höhenweg - Alta Via di Merano (trail number 24), which encircles the Texel Group Nature Park. It also overlaps with sections of the Via Alpina Yellow B28.
Are there any huts or places to stop for refreshments along the way?
Yes, the Leiteralm is a prominent mountain hut located along this section of the trail, offering a great spot to rest and enjoy refreshments with stunning views.
What should I wear and bring for this hike?
Given the challenging and exposed sections, wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support. Bring layers of clothing suitable for changing mountain weather, rain gear, sufficient water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a map or GPS device. Trekking poles can also be helpful on the steep and rocky terrain.
Is there an insider tip for hiking this section of the Meraner Höhenweg?
To fully appreciate the dramatic scenery and secure sections, consider starting your hike early in the morning. This allows you to avoid potential crowds, especially during peak season, and experience the trail in cooler temperatures before the midday sun makes exposed sections more challenging. Always check the weather forecast before heading out.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Several experiences are recommended here: Of course, the beautiful path along the steep slopes below the Rötelspitze and Mutspitze... With beautiful views of the Vinschgau and Etschtal valleys. The path winds gently up and down the mountain. Between Steinegg, the highest of the Muthöfe farms, and the Leiteralm, there is less than 140 meters of elevation gain. But be careful: As easy as the path itself is to walk, you should be careful not to stumble, because if you're lucky, you might end up on the rock face, or if you're unlucky, you might end up tumbling down the sometimes very steep slope. There are places to stop for refreshments at both ends of this section of the Merano High Trail No. 24: There are several near the Muthöfe farms, and the Leiteralm is particularly inviting. We started from there and "descended" to the Muthöfe farms, then returned to the Leiteralm, which we reached via the cable car from Velloi. This lift is another highlight: Two people board a metal gondola, where you can stand and enjoy the view while gliding up or down the slopes at a leisurely pace!
Start at the mountain station of the Dorf Tirol cable car, to the Leiteralm and back Part of the Merano high mountain trail, well, you have to watch where you are stepping with every step, relaxed hiking is different, There is no "circular trail" for 2 to 3 hours, so you only go there and back
The altitude given by Komoot is definitely not correct! Nevertheless, the app is very helpful.
This path is a paradise for lizards and gives you a high mountain feeling, even though it "only" goes up from 1,365 m to around 1,550 m. It is quite narrow and on the valley side it goes straight down. Therefore it is not necessarily suitable for hikers with a fear of heights. In particularly narrow places, chains and wire ropes have been attached to the rock face. The break on the Leiteralm, one of the most beautiful alpine pastures in this area, is well deserved before heading back to the Hochmut mountain station. Alternatively, you can hike steeply down to the Vellauer Felsenweg, which you can use to hike back to the cable car. The Felsenweg is even narrower and more exposed, but it is well worth it if you don't have a fear of heights.
