Feldthurns Trail 9 Loop

This hike is estimated to take approximately 4 hours and 26 minutes to complete. However, this can vary based on your pace, fitness level, and how often you stop to enjoy the views or take breaks at the mountain huts.

The Peitlerkofel Alpine Loop (via Route 9) is generally considered a moderate hike. It's suitable for most hikers with good fitness. While the main loop doesn't have technical difficulties, some sections, particularly the ascent to the Peitlerscharte ridge, can be steep and involve scree slopes, requiring sure-footedness.

The route often starts from the Würzjoch (Passo delle Erbe) car park. This specific Komoot tour begins near the Perlunger Hof parking area. Arriving early, especially during peak season, is advisable to secure a parking spot.

You'll experience a diverse range of terrain, including forest paths, open meadowlands (which can be adorned with wildflowers), natural surfaces, and some paved sections. There are also rocky slopes and a challenging gully with scree-covered sections. You'll traverse mixed forests of Swiss stone pine and larch, and high alpine pastures.

The loop offers breathtaking panoramic views as you circle the solitary Peitlerkofel. You'll see dramatic peaks of the Odle group and, on clear days, even distant Alps. A particular highlight is the View of Peitlerkofel itself, offering an excellent perspective of the Dolomites. You'll also get vast panoramas of Val Badia and Val di Funes.

The best time to hike this loop is typically from late spring to early autumn (June to September). During this period, the weather is generally favorable, and the meadows are often vibrant with wildflowers. Always check local weather conditions before you go, as alpine weather can change rapidly.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on this trail. However, it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or wildlife, and to follow local regulations regarding pets in natural parks.

No, you do not need a special permit or have to pay an entrance fee to hike the Peitlerkofel Alpine Loop (via Route 9). However, parking areas, such as the one at Würzjoch or near Perlunger Hof, may have a fee.

Yes, the trail is well-equipped with several charming mountain huts (known as 'Ütia' or 'Rifugio') where you can stop for refreshments or a meal. These include Ütia de Börz, Munt de Fornella, Ütia Vaciara, and Ütia de Göma, making the hike even more enjoyable.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Feldthurner Weg, Latschwald, Oberfrauner - Fös, and Oberst - Kompatsch trails, among others. This allows for varied scenery and connections to other parts of the region.

For those seeking a greater challenge, extensions to the summits are available. The main Peitlerkofel summit (2875 m) involves a via ferrata (secured path with steel cables) near the top, which requires absolute sure-footedness, freedom from dizziness, and ideally, via ferrata equipment. The Kleiner Peitlerkofel (2831 m) is a moderately difficult climb that can add to the loop.