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Two hikers on a trail surrounded by trees and mountains.

Gateway to the Karwendel Nature Park

Hiking around Scharnitz

Located at around 964 m above sea level on the western edge of the Karwendel Mountains, Scharnitz is known as the “Gateway to the Karwendel” and serves as a central starting point for hikes in the Karwendel Nature Park. Numerous routes begin here – from the relaxed Hinterautal leading to the source of the Isar, to the more challenging Karwendel Valley, the quiet Gleirschtal with its wild Gleirschklamm Gorge, or the peaceful Gießenbachtal – ideal for those seeking nature and tranquility. More leisurely paths along the Isar or Gießenbach also invite you to hike and unwind in Scharnitz. Worthwhile highlights include scenic viewpoints like the historic Porta Claudia or the Adlerkanzel with views stretching from the village in the Region Seefeld to Germany. Its unique location on the edge of the Karwendel Nature Park makes Scharnitz a perfect starting point for a wide range of hikes – from relaxed valley walks to alpine summit tours.

Hiking Highlights in Scharnitz

A riverside scene with a stone stack in the foreground and greenery along the water.

Karwendel Nature Park

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The Karwendel Nature Park is Tirol’s oldest protected area and the largest nature park in Austria – ideal for extended hikes, whether you’re a leisurely walker or an alpine enthusiast. From Scharnitz, a wide network of trails opens up through quiet valleys, blooming alpine meadows, wild gorges, and untouched forests.
A riverside scene with a stone stack in the foreground and greenery along the water.

Karwendel Nature Park

Rocky cliffs with a turquoise river and a wooden bridge in a natural landscape.

Gleirschklamm Gorge

A river flows over rocky surfaces, surrounded by trees and greenery.

Karwendel Gorge

A tranquil stream flowing through a forest with sunlight shining through the trees.

The Source of the River Isar

Ancient stone ruins amidst greenery and a clear blue sky.

Porta Claudia

Wooden gazebo on a hillside surrounded by trees, overlooking a valley with houses.

Adlerkanzel Viewpoint

DISCOVER GENUINE ALPINE DIVERSITY

Explore all hikes in Scharnitz

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Two children playing by a clear stream in a mountainous area.
Whether you love hiking or climbing, you’ll find over 650 kilometers of marked hiking trails, mountain routes, and via ferratas in all levels of difficulty – the perfect way to enjoy the region’s unique natural landscape to the fullest. More than 570 kilometers of bike routes offer the chance to explore it all on two wheels. And golf enthusiasts can look forward to perfect fairways and greens set against a stunning mountain backdrop.

Tourismusverband Seefeld | Austria +43 5 0880 | region@seefeld.com | www.seefeld.com