Nine stages, 11,000 metres of difference in altitude, 120 kilometres. The Paznaun High Route is a multi-day hike that offers tons of variety. Are you ready for Tyrol’s most diverse high route?
If you would like to experience the region from its best side, the Paznaun High Route is just the right hike for you! Along nine stages, it leads you to the most beautiful places at the Paznaun. Sparkling mountain lakes and idyllic alpine pastures – and you’ll always have a good view of the most stunning Tyrolean summits, of course.
There are also plenty of huts for a “pit-stop” along each stage. They ensure that you can recharge and refuel with some of the best regional delicacies from the Paznaun.
Or better yet: in the mountains surrounding the towns of Ischgl, Galtür, Kappl and See! Because everyone who has ever enjoyed some fresh mountain air and the view over the vast mountain landscape can vouch for this: there’s hardly a place where freedom is at your feet quite like in the mountains. How else could it be when you’re surrounded by the most beautiful places that nature has to offer!
Steep trails, easy paths. Juicy pastures, rocky passages. Lush vegetation, alpine barrenness. Along the stages of the Paznaun High Route, you get to experience nature in all its diversity – you’ll see!
About 60 hours – that’s how long it takes mountain athletes to complete all nine stages of this Tyrolean high route. That doesn’t happen within a day, of course. It’s an experience that’ll last you for multiple days. Whether it’s while on holiday in Ischgl or on day trip during the warmer months: the Paznaun High Route should definitely be on every nature lover’s to-do list!
The high route in numbers:
Tip: None of the nine stages are alike. Less experienced hikers can find some easier routes and passionate mountaineers are going to find some more challenging passages where they can exert themselves.
The first stage leads from See – a neighbouring town of Ischgl – to the Ascher hut at 2,256 metres above sea level. You’ll see: this moderately difficult stage is the perfect prelude to the rest of the exciting Paznaun High Route.
After you’ve crossed the Gigglbach brook, a challenging fixed-rope section rewards you with an impressive view of the entire lower part of the Paznaun. Tip: Take a break and take a couple souvenir pictures! This spot is perfect to take a breather, take in the mountain views and forget the world around you for a few minutes.
Crystal clear mountain lakes, incredible scenic views of the mountains, pristine nature … Stage 2 of the Paznaun High Route is a true gem and leads you all the way through the Untertal valley.
There are two variations of the smuggler’s stage: a moderately difficult and a difficult one – without any trails. No matter which one you choose: this hike leads you from Austria to Switzerland and back. And it’s incredibly beautiful.
The Visnitz valley is wildly romantic and deserted – take a breather and enjoy nature to the fullest.
The name says it all when it comes to this stage – the “dream stage”: it’s truly a dream hike through the idyllic mountain and meadow landscape. Stunning panoramic views and lots of other highlights reward every hiker for the challenging ascent from the first second onwards.
The stage from Galtür to the Friedrichshafener hut is possibly the most relaxing and leisurely stage of the Paznaun High Route. Hikers are delighted: that way, they’ll have even more time to enjoy nature to the fullest and to get to know – and love – the Paznaun!
You’d better have plenty of strength and some well-trained muscles! The “Ludwig-Dürr-Weg” packs quite a punch! But if you don’t, there’s also a second – moderately difficult – alternative route.
Starting point is the Friedrichshafener hut at 2,138 metres above sea level. The first version of the route leads you along the famous (and notorious) “Ludwig-Dürr-Weg”. It’s by far the most challenging trail of the entire Paznaun High Route. The second version is a lot more moderate in terms of difficulty and perfect for less experienced alpinists.
VERSION 1 – via the “Ludwig-Dürr-Weg” to the Darmstädter hut:
VERSION 2 – via the Schafbicheljoch to the Darmstädter hut:
The “Ludwig-Dürr-Weg” is the most difficult high-alpine part of the Paznaun High Route and is only recommended for experienced alpinists! Please check the current weather conditions ahead of the hike!
More than half of the Paznaun High Route lies behind you! And still, there’s one route after the next! More unforgettable views, new experiences and a feeling of utmost freedom up in the mountains await you at stage 7 of this long-distance hiking route at the Tyrolean Paznaun!
In good spirits, we continue on to stage 8 of the Paznaun High Route! This stage leads past idyllic mountain lakes, across lush green mountain pastures and through rocky terrain.
Tip: If your strength and the weather allow it, you should climb the Hoher Riffler (3,168 metres above sea level) in the afternoon! Walking time is about 2.5 hours from the Edmund Graf hut to the summit.
Take a little breather at the Schmalzgrubenseen lakes and let the surrounding landscape and the crystal-clear water enchant you!
The last stage of the Paznaun High Route is about to commence. It has all the reason to be called the “king’s stage”. It offers hikers of the Paznaun High Route a last chance at impressive views of the already-covered distance and the past stages – and it’s the culmination of an adventure-filled long-distance hike.
Whoever manages to complete the entire Paznaun High Route deserves a goodie bag! Because it’s not every day that you conquer 100 kilometres and 11,000 metres of difference in altitude.
How to get the goodie bag
Good to know: Which stage you complete when and in which timespan is totally up to you – the Paznaun High Route doesn’t have to be completed all in one go!
The Paznaun High Route is at the top of your list for your next holiday in Ischgl in Tyrol? That’s great! There are a couple of things you should keep in mind:
You love to discover new regions while hiking? Being at eye level with the most impressive summits the Tyrolean Alps have to offer? And being close to the treasures of nature? Then book your active holiday right away!