The best walks and hikes around Kartitsch
4.5
(1569)
9,848
hikers
52
hikes
Hiking around Kartitsch offers access to high alpine valleys, nestled between the Lienz Dolomites to the north and the Carnic Ridge to the south. The terrain features towering mountains, verdant meadows, and diverse forests. Hikers can explore idyllic mountain lakes and observe geological formations from the last Ice Age. The region provides a range of trails, from easy strolls through cultivated fields to challenging alpine treks.
Best hiking trails around Kartitsch
- The most popular hiking route is Südalpenweg 03: From Obstansersee to Hollbrucker Spitze, a 11.2 miles (18.1 km) trail that takes 7 hours 30 minutes to complete, offering stunning Dolomites views.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is To the Obstanserseehütte and the Pfannspitze - Carnic Alps, a difficult 9.1 miles (14.6 km) path. This route features high alpine scenery within the Carnic Alps, with significant elevation gain.
- Local hikers also love the Carnic High Trail: Pfannspitze and Große Kinigat, a 8.5 miles (13.7 km) trail leading through the Carnic Ridge, often completed in about 5 hours 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Kartitsch is defined by high alpine valleys, the Lienz Dolomites, and the Carnic Ridge, alongside mountain lakes and forests. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy walks to difficult mountain ascents.
- The routes in Kartitsch are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1500 reviews. More than 9000 hikers have used komoot to explore Kartitsch's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
4.8
(51)
449
hikers
18.1km
07:30
910m
910m
Hike the difficult 11.2-mile Südalpenweg 03 from Obstansersee to Hollbrucker Spitze, gaining 2977 feet with stunning Dolomites views.
4.9
(64)
326
hikers
14.6km
07:15
1,180m
1,180m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Sign up for free
4.7
(3)
10
hikers
13.7km
05:32
760m
760m
Hike the difficult 8.5-mile Carnic High Trail from Filmoor-Standschützenhütte to Filmoorsattel, featuring stunning Dolomites views and chall
2
hikers
7.12km
03:38
580m
580m
Alpine meadow trail to cozy Filmoor hut serving homemade schnapps with Großglockner views.
4.5
(17)
106
hikers
8.82km
03:40
530m
530m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Kartitsch
Austria's High & Holy Pilgrimage Trail – Walking across mountains and borders
Southern Alpine Trail – Styrian vineyards and the Carnic Alps in Austria
Alpine bliss on the long-distance hiking trails in East Tyrol
High up on the Gailtaler Höhenweg
Winter highlights in Tyrol for everyone's taste
Ridge walking on the Carnic High Trail — Great Walks
Nature experiences around the Winter Hiking Village Kartitsch
Snowshoe magic in East Tyrol
Herzliche Gastlichkeit & traditionelle Kulinarik – Winterwandern in Osttirol
Winterwandertage – gemeinsam Osttirol erleben
Other adventures around Kartitsch
Tips from the Community
On the Carnic High Trail you reach the summit of the Iron Kingdom. Here, at an altitude of 2665 m, there is a simple wooden cross and a stamp point.
1
0
On the Carnic High Trail no. 403 you reach the highest war cemetery in Central Europe, the Hochgränten cemetery at 2534 m. Four fallen soldiers of the Austro-Hungarian army (September 6, 1915) are buried within the wall.
1
0
Near the Silvella Pass, a crossroads indicates numerous crossing possibilities. Turning left onto the military mule track CAI 160, which climbs the grassy rocky slope of the steep southern shoulder of the Frugnoni, you reach the ruins of a military building, located very close to the Italian-Austrian border.
1
0
The Passo Silvella (2329 m) is less well known than some other passes in the Dolomites, such as the Gardena Pass or the Passo Pordoi. Nevertheless, it is particularly attractive for hikers, mountain bikers and nature lovers, as the area offers spectacular views of the surrounding Dolomite peaks. On the Stoneman Trail by MTB professional Roland Stauder, one of the 5 stamp stations that must be reached is located here.
1
0
Very cozy cabin with a very pleasant atmosphere. You feel at home here. The beautiful lake invites you to swim. Thank you for your hospitality.
4
0
At the end of the winter hiking trail, this bridge awaits you with a view of the field walls of the Rosskopf.
0
0
You can also walk on paths that are covered in deep snow, which is even more strenuous and is a very nice experience.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Kartitsch?
Kartitsch offers a diverse network of over 50 hiking trails. These range from easy strolls through cultivated fields to challenging alpine treks, catering to various fitness levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes in Kartitsch?
The terrain around Kartitsch is characterized by high alpine valleys, nestled between the Lienz Dolomites to the north and the Carnic Ridge to the south. You'll encounter towering mountains, verdant meadows, diverse forests, and idyllic mountain lakes. Some paths also feature geological formations from the last Ice Age.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Kartitsch?
Yes, Kartitsch has several family-friendly options. The "Forest Wonderland Theme Trail" is ideal for children, offering playful learning about local flora and fauna and concluding with an adventure playground. The "Innerland Circular Trail" is also an easy winter hike suitable for all fitness levels. Overall, there are 11 easy routes available.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I can see while hiking?
Kartitsch is rich in natural beauty. You can explore idyllic mountain lakes like Obersee, Mittelsee, and Untersee, or visit the Obstansersee, which is great for swimming. The region is also home to the Obstans Ice Cave with its eponymous waterfall. For stunning views, consider hikes that offer panoramas of the Lienz Dolomites and the Carnic Ridge, or visit the Dorfberg summit.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Kartitsch?
Kartitsch is an excellent hiking destination year-round. As Austria's first official winter hiking village, it offers nine certified winter trails. During warmer months, you can enjoy blooming alpine flowers in spring and vibrant autumn foliage. The region generally boasts abundant sunshine.
Are there any long-distance hiking trails that pass through Kartitsch?
Yes, Kartitsch is a significant point for several long-distance trails. The renowned Karnischer Höhenweg (Carnic High Trail/Peace Trail) runs along the Carnic Ridge, offering breathtaking views and historical sites. The Gailtal High Route also starts from Kartitsch, and the challenging Südalpenweg 03 is a notable route in the area.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Kartitsch?
The komoot community highly rates hiking in Kartitsch, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1500 reviews. Hikers often praise the stunning high alpine scenery, the diverse range of trails for all abilities, and the panoramic views of the Lienz Dolomites and Carnic Ridge.
Are there any hikes that feature waterfalls?
Yes, you can find hikes that include waterfalls. The Obstans Ice Cave features an eponymous waterfall. Additionally, the Ascent Through the Winklertal – Brüggele Waterfall loop is an 8.82 km hike with a moderate elevation gain that leads to a waterfall.
Can I find circular hiking routes in Kartitsch?
Yes, circular routes are available. The "Innerland Circular Trail" is an easy option, particularly popular for winter hiking. The Ascent Through the Winklertal – Brüggele Waterfall loop is another example of a circular route.
Are there any mountain huts or places to rest along the trails?
Yes, some trails lead to mountain huts. For instance, the Alpine meadow trail to Filmoor-Standschützenhütte takes you to a cozy hut. The Sillianer Hut (Rifugio Sillianer) at 2,447 meters on the Carnic Ridge also serves as a base for several long-distance trails.
Are there any cultural attractions to see while hiking in Kartitsch?
Beyond natural beauty, you can encounter cultural sites. Within Kartitsch and its hamlets, hikers can visit the Parish Church "St. Leonhard," the Pilgrimage Church "Our Lady Mariahilf," and the Chapel "St. Oswald."
What is the difficulty level of hikes in Kartitsch?
Kartitsch offers a wide range of difficulty levels. You'll find easy strolls, moderate paths, and challenging alpine treks. Out of over 50 routes, 11 are considered easy, 25 are moderate, and 17 are difficult, ensuring options for every hiker.
Most popular routes around Kartitsch
Most popular attractions around Kartitsch
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
