Steiner Alpine Pasture
Steiner Alpine Pasture
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Steiner Alpine Pasture
Hiking
4.8
(282)
Mountain biking
4.7
(263)
Mountaineering
5.0
(24)
Cycling
5.0
(11)
Running
5.0
(10)
Steiner Alm is a historic mountain hut and pasture nestled at an elevation of approximately 1030 meters on the northern slope of the Hochstaufen mountain, in Piding, Berchtesgadener Land, Germany. This charming alpine destination offers a genuine taste of Bavarian mountain life, providing a welcoming stop for hikers and cyclists exploring the scenic landscapes of the German Alps, close to the Austrian border near Salzburg. It's a place where traditional hospitality meets stunning natural beauty.
Visitors consistently praise the Steiner Alm for its picturesque setting and the magnificent views it offers. From this elevated position, you can take in sweeping panoramas of the Staufen massif, the Chiemgau region, and even parts of the Salzburger Land. The warm and friendly atmosphere, often highlighted by the welcoming staff, makes it a beloved spot for a refreshing break. Many also appreciate the chance to interact with the various farm animals, including horses, ponies, and goats, adding to the authentic alpine experience.
Before heading out, it's good to know that the trails leading to Steiner Alm are generally considered easy to follow during warmer months, making them suitable for a range of abilities. Proper hiking footwear is always recommended, and bringing water and snacks is advisable, though refreshments are available at the hut. Parking is often available at trailheads like Aufham, from where a roughly two-hour hike leads to the alm. The area can be popular, especially on sunny weekends, so an early start can help ensure a more tranquil experience.
The best time to visit Steiner Alm is typically from late spring through early autumn when the trails are clear and the alpine wildflowers are in full bloom, creating a vibrant display. It's a popular destination for both hiking and mountain biking, with trails that cater to different preferences. Cyclists on komoot note that while some sections might be challenging for gravel bikes, the overall route is manageable and rewarding. The hut provides a perfect spot to refuel with traditional snacks and drinks after an invigorating ascent.
The Steiner Alm is not just a place for refreshment; it's also rich in history and unique features. The site includes simple farm buildings, notably a protected Kaser (dairy hut) dating back to 1820, and the Hubertus Chapel, built as a memorial. These historical elements, combined with the presence of farm animals and the serene ambiance, create a truly immersive alpine experience. The vibrant display of alpine wildflowers in summer and the occasional Tibetan prayer flags add to the distinctive charm of this mountain pasture.
Whether you're looking for a leisurely walk, a challenging bike ride, or simply a peaceful retreat with stunning views, Steiner Alm offers a memorable outing. You can explore various hiking trails to Steiner Alm, with options ranging from shorter, family-friendly routes to longer treks that connect to other landmarks like the Staufen mountain or Frillensee. Discovering the diverse routes available on komoot can help you plan your perfect adventure to this charming Bavarian hut.
Tips
December 16, 2016
Hiking
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May 30, 2019
Mountain biking
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July 18, 2019
Mountain biking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Steiner Alpine Pasture
4.6
(108)
484
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16.0km
06:50
1,010m
1,010m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.6
(108)
484
hikers
16.0km
06:50
1,010m
1,010m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.9
(81)
613
hikers
16.3km
07:16
1,260m
1,260m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,030 m
Weather
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Sunday 14 June
18°C
9°C
20 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the recommended hiking routes to Steiner Alm for different skill levels?
Steiner Alm is accessible via various trails. A popular route starts from the Aufham parking area, involving a roughly two-hour hike. For those seeking a more challenging ascent, it's possible to continue from Steiner Alm to the summit of the Hochstaufen mountain, which takes about two additional hours. There are also connections to other landmarks like the Frillensee, approximately 45 minutes away. Hikers can find routes suitable for a range of abilities, from leisurely walks to more strenuous climbs.
Are there specific viewpoints or natural features to look out for at Steiner Alm?
Absolutely! From Steiner Alm, you'll be treated to magnificent panoramic views of the Staufen massif, the Chiemgau region, and parts of the Salzburger Land. The alm itself features simple farm buildings, including a protected Kaser (dairy hut) dating back to 1820, and the Hubertus Chapel, built as a memorial. During summer, the alpine pasture is known for its vibrant display of wildflowers, and you might also spot Tibetan prayer flags, adding to the serene atmosphere.
What are the parking options and public transport availability for reaching Steiner Alm?
Parking is generally available at trailheads such as the Aufham parking area, which serves as a common starting point for hikes to Steiner Alm. However, parking can fill up quickly, especially on sunny weekends and during peak season. Arriving earlier in the day is highly recommended to secure a spot. Public transport options to the immediate trailheads are limited, so driving to a starting point is often the most convenient method.
Is Steiner Alm suitable for a winter hike, and what are the conditions like?
While the main season for Steiner Alm is from late spring through early autumn, winter hiking is possible, but conditions can be significantly different. Trails may be covered in snow and ice, requiring appropriate winter hiking gear such as snowshoes or microspikes. It's crucial to check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before attempting a winter visit, as some paths might be closed or become dangerous. The hut's opening hours may also be reduced or seasonal.
Is Steiner Alm family-friendly, and can I bring my dog?
Yes, Steiner Alm is considered very family-friendly. Children often enjoy interacting with the various farm animals present on the alpine pasture, including horses, ponies, cows, chickens, and goats. The trails leading to the alm are generally manageable for families. Dogs are typically welcome on the trails and at the alm, but they should be kept on a leash, especially around farm animals and other visitors. Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and that you clean up after them.
Are there any cafes, pubs, or accommodation options near Steiner Alm?
Steiner Alm itself offers refreshments like coffee, cake, beer, juice, and traditional snacks such as cheese/ham sandwiches and sausages. For more extensive dining or accommodation, you would need to descend to the nearby towns. Piding, Bad Reichenhall, or other villages in the Berchtesgadener Land region offer a range of hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, and cafes. There are no immediate cafes or pubs directly adjacent to the alm itself, beyond what the hut provides.
What kind of food and drinks are served at Steiner Alm?
Steiner Alm provides a selection of traditional alpine refreshments perfect for hikers. You can expect to find coffee, cake, beer, and various juices. For snacks, they typically offer hearty options like cheese and ham sandwiches, Viennese sausages, and Debreziner. These offerings are designed to provide a welcome energy boost after your hike.
How does this Steiner Alm compare to other locations with the same name?
The Steiner Alm in Piding, Germany, is distinct from other locations sharing a similar name. This particular alm is known for its historical Kaser (dairy hut) from 1820, the Hubertus Chapel, and its location on the northern slope of the Hochstaufen mountain, offering views of the Staufen massif and Salzburger Land. Other 'Steiner Alm' locations, such as Steiner-Hinteralm in Hohe Tauern National Park or Steiner Alm in Tyrol, offer different features like specific cheese dairies or unique regional specialties and are situated at varying elevations and regions.
Are there any circular hiking routes that include Steiner Alm?
While the most common approach to Steiner Alm is an out-and-back route from trailheads like Aufham, it is possible to incorporate it into longer circular walks. Hikers often combine a visit to Steiner Alm with a loop that might include other points of interest or connect to different trails on the Hochstaufen mountain. Planning a circular route would involve consulting detailed hiking maps or using a route planner to identify suitable connections and ensure a safe return to your starting point.
What is the elevation of Steiner Alm and how much ascent is involved in reaching it?
Steiner Alm is situated at an elevation of approximately 1,028 meters (3,373 feet). The ascent involved depends on your starting point. For example, from the Aufham parking area, which is at a lower elevation, you would typically gain several hundred meters in altitude over a roughly two-hour hike to reach the alm. The trails are generally considered moderate, offering a rewarding climb without being overly strenuous for most hikers.