The best walks and hikes in High Tauern

High Tauern offers a vast network of hiking opportunities, with over 300 routes available on komoot. These range from easy valley walks to challenging high-alpine expeditions, catering to all experience levels.

The ideal time for hiking and high-alpine tours in High Tauern is generally from May to October. During these months, mountain pastures are in bloom, waterfalls are at their most impressive, and the clear mountain air offers vibrant autumn colors later in the season.

Yes, High Tauern features many family-friendly options. For example, the Debanttal Nature and Culture Trail is a moderate path exploring a scenic valley. The Matrei Valley Trail is also known for being family-friendly, offering insights into the region's history.

For challenging high-alpine experiences, High Tauern offers numerous options among its over 200 peaks exceeding 3,000 meters. The Glacier trail to the Pasterze is a demanding route leading through glaciated terrain, offering close-up views of Austria's longest glacier. The Three Lakes Hike (Grünsee, Schwarzsee, and Grausee) is another recommended longer and more challenging option.

Absolutely. The Hohe Tauern National Park is renowned for its powerful waterfalls. The Krimml Waterfall Trail offers close-up views of Europe's highest waterfalls, a truly magnificent natural spectacle. Other notable waterfalls include the Umbalfälle and Schrabach Waterfall.

Yes, the park is home to extensive glaciers, including the Pasterzen Glacier. The Glacier trail to the Pasterze allows hikers to get close to this impressive ice formation. The Glacier and Ice Arena 3000 at Kitzsteinhorn also offers high-alpine hiking experiences with glacier views, accessible by cable car.

High Tauern's diverse ecosystems support a rich array of wildlife. Hikers often spot ibex, chamois, and marmots in the higher altitudes. Birdwatchers might be lucky enough to see golden eagles and bearded vultures soaring above the peaks.

Yes, there are several circular routes available. An example is the Gradental to the Adolf Nossberger Hütte (loop), which offers a rewarding journey through the valley and back.

The trails in High Tauern are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 8,000 reviews. Reviewers often praise the breathtaking high-alpine scenery, the well-maintained paths, and the diversity of experiences, from majestic glaciers to powerful waterfalls.

Beyond the trails, High Tauern offers several points of interest. You can visit historic alpine huts like the Kalser Tauernhaus or the Glocknerhaus Mountain Lodge. The picturesque Innergschlöss valley, considered one of the most beautiful valley heads in the Eastern Alps, is also worth exploring for its charming photo opportunities. Additionally, sparkling mountain lakes such as Stappitzer Lake provide serene spots to enjoy the landscape.

Generally, dogs are permitted on hiking trails in the Hohe Tauern National Park, but they must be kept on a leash, especially in core zones and near grazing animals, to protect wildlife and livestock. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out.

Public transport options are available to access various parts of the Hohe Tauern National Park. Regional buses often connect train stations in surrounding towns to valley communities and some trailheads. For detailed schedules and routes, it's best to consult local transport providers or the official National Park website: nationalpark-hohetauern.at.

Many popular trailheads and visitor centers within the Hohe Tauern National Park offer designated parking areas. Some may require a fee, especially during peak season. It's advisable to arrive early, particularly for well-known routes, as parking can fill up quickly. Information on specific parking facilities is often available on local tourism websites or at visitor centers.