A True Nature Experience
Hiking in the Karwendel Nature Park
Covering 739 km², the Karwendel Nature Park is Tyrol’s largest protected area and the biggest nature park in Austria. On Tyrol’s high plateau, an extensive trail network winds through quiet valleys, alpine meadows, wild gorges and untouched forests. Whether you prefer relaxing walks along rushing rivers, scenic hikes to rustic alpine huts, or challenging routes to panoramic peaks – hiking in the Karwendel offers something for every level of fitness.
Scharnitz, known as the "Gateway to the Karwendel", is the ideal starting point for hikers, mountaineers and nature lovers. The central contact point is the Nature Park Information Centre in Scharnitz, located directly at the P2 "Karwendelparkplatz Länd" car park. From May to October, visitors can find tour information, brochures and hiking maps here. Right next to it is the Holzerhütte Museum, which offers fascinating insights into traditional alpine forestry in the Karwendel. Four valleys – the Karwendeltal, Hinterautal, Gleirschtal and Gießenbachtal – along with the Arnspitz mountain range, are just waiting to be explored.
Leutasch, on the northwestern edge of the Karwendel, provides access to more remote trails in the Arnspitze region. Routes from here lead to the striking Große Arnspitze as well as to quieter paths beneath towering peaks – perfect for those who want to enjoy hiking off the beaten track. Seefeld and Reith also offer access to the southwestern corner of the Karwendel – the Erlspitz Group, also known as the “Seefeld Range.”
Hinterautal Valley & the Source of the River Isar
The peaceful Hinterautal Valley follows the crystal-clear waters of the river Isar all the way to its source, known as “Bei den Flüssen” (At the Rivers). In the valley, charming alpine huts invite you to pause and relax in this idyllic setting.
Karwendeltal Valley
A pristine valley featuring challenging ascents for both hikers and bikers. At the end of the valley, the Karwendelhaus sits proudly at 1,765 metres, offering visitors sweeping panoramic views. It serves as a starting point for many alpine tours and marks the first stage of the legendary Karwendel March.
Gleirschtal Valley & Gleirsch Gorge
A quiet valley with access to Möslalm, Pfeishütte, Kristenalm and Solsteinhaus. One of its highlights is the impressive Gleirschklamm Gorge, where a narrow trail follows the rushing mountain stream through a spectacular rocky landscape.
Gießenbachtal Valley
Starting from Gießenbach, this wild and romantic valley opens up – ideal for those looking to enjoy some peace and quiet in nature.
Arnspitz Group
With the addition of the Arnspitze nature reserve, the Karwendel Nature Park expanded to 739 km². The municipality of Leutasch now offers new access points into the rugged Arnspitz Group. This little-explored corner of the Karwendel features both technically demanding mountain tours and more leisurely hiking routes.
Erlspitz Group
Also known as the Seefeld Range, the Erlspitz Group forms the southwestern edge of the Karwendel Mountains. Trails from Seefeld and Reith lead across striking ridges, varied passes, and scenic peaks, offering impressive views over the Karwendel valleys.
Multi-Day Hikes in the Karwendel Nature Park
Eagle Walk
The Eagle Walk covers 33 stages, stretching across approximately 413 kilometres and climbing a total of 31,000 vertical metres. It crosses seven mountain ranges on its way through Tyrol and leads through the Karwendel Nature Park from stage 8 to stage 15. All details, including route descriptions and maps, can be found at tirol.at/eagle-walk.
Guided Hikes in the Karwendel Nature Park
Our experience shop offers two guided hikes through the Karwendel Nature Park. In addition, you can plan customised tours together with the region’s experienced mountain and hiking guides – and discover the diverse natural beauty of the Karwendel along the way.
Taxi Rides into the Valleys and Boat Transport into Hinterautal
From 1ˢᵗ June to 15ᵗʰ October every year
• Taxi and Minibus Mair – Scharnitz T. +43 5213 5363
• Taxi Ramona – Giessenbach T. +43 5213 5541
Please contact the companies directly for information about rates and availability.
Note for Karwendel Valley and Eppzirl: Transfers are only allowed on weekdays and are limited to a maximum of 4 trips per day. No transfers are permitted on weekends and public holidays.
Code of Conduct
Your safety and the protection of our unique nature are very important to us. Please enjoy this beautiful landscape with respect. By following these ten simple rules, you actively contribute to preserving this natural paradise.
Commercial filming and photography in the Karwendel Nature Park are becoming increasingly popular. However, due to the area's special protected status, official permission and compliance with specific rules are required. Detailed information on how to apply for a filming or photography permit can be found on this page.
Please also follow the general rules of conduct for the Karwendel Nature Park.
