A true nature experience
Biking in the Karwendel Nature Park
The Karwendel Nature Park is, with 739 km², the largest protected area in Tyrol and the largest nature park in Austria. On Tyrol's high plateau, a vast network of trails stretches through quiet valleys, alpine meadows, and pristine forests – perfect for varied biking experiences. Whether you prefer a relaxed ride along wild rivers, a leisurely trip to rustic alpine pastures, or a sporty adventure on challenging trails in the alpine terrain – biking in Karwendel offers the right route for every fitness level and requirement.
Scharnitz, the "Gateway to the Karwendel", is the ideal starting point for bikers and nature lovers. The central contact point is the Nature Park Information Center Scharnitz, directly at the Parking Lot P2 "Karwendel Parking Lot Länd". Here, from May to October, you can get information about tours as well as brochures and map materials. Directly connected is the Holzerhütte Museum, which offers fascinating insights into alpine wood utilization in the Karwendel. Four impressive valleys – Karwendeltal, Hinterautal, Gleirschtal, and Gießenbachtal – invite you to unforgettable bike tours.
Leutasch, located on the northwestern edge of the Karwendel, provides access to a scenic biking route around the Große Arnspitze. The route runs beneath the imposing peaks and combines nature experiences with athletic challenges – ideal for those who want to enjoy biking in the Karwendel away from the well-known routes. Also, Seefeld and Reith offer tours to the southwestern corner of the Karwendel – to the Erlspitz group, also known as the "Seefeld Group".
Hinterautal & Isarursprung
Cozy, the Hinterautal extends along the crystal-clear waters of the Isar up to its Origin "At the Rivers". In this idyllic valley, rustic huts invite you to linger.
Karwendeltal
A pristine valley with sporty ascents for hikers and bikers. The Karwendelhaus at 1,765 m dominates the end of the valley and offers visitors a vast panorama. It is the starting point for many alpine tours and the first stage area of the legendary Karwendelmarsch.
Gleirschtal
A quiet valley for connoisseurs and explorers. The route leads deep into the heart of the Karwendel on varied bike and forest paths – past rustic alpine pastures and through unspoiled nature.
Giessenbachtal
From Gießenbach, another wild-romantic valley opens up, which is ideal for anyone seeking a bit of peace.
Arnspitzgroup
With the expansion to the Arnspitze Nature Reserve, the Karwendel Nature Park grew to 739 km². In the municipality of Leutasch, cyclists can enjoy a scenic route around the Große Arnspitze.
Erlspitzgruppe
The Erlspitz group, also known as the Seefelder group, forms the southwestern corner of the Karwendel mountain range. From Seefeld, a varied Bike & Hike Tour leads to the Seefelder Spitze (2,220 m) – a combination of a sporty bike tour and a panoramic summit ascent with impressive views over Tyrol's high plateau and the Karwendel valleys.
Taxi rides to all valleys and boat transfers to the Hinterautal
from June 1 to October 15 every year
• Taxi and Minibuses Mair – Scharnitz T. +43 5213 5363
• Taxi Ramona – Gießenbach T. +43 5213 5541
Price information and appointment scheduling directly with the providers!
Note Karwendeltal and Eppzirl: Only during the week and limited to a maximum of 4 rides per day. No transfers are allowed on weekends and public holidays.
(V)Retention rules
Your safety and the protection of our unique nature are important to us. We ask you to enjoy this beautiful landscape with respect. By following these ten rules, you actively contribute to the preservation of this natural paradise.
Commercial film and photographic recordings in the Karwendel Nature Park are becoming increasingly popular. However, due to the special protection status of the area, an official permit and adherence to specific behavioral rules are required. Detailed information on how to apply for a filming or recording permit can be found on this page.
Please also check the general behavioral rules of the Karwendel Nature Park.
Important information for mountain bikers is available here.
