A real nature experience
Karwendel Nature Park in Tyrol | Largest Nature Park in Austria
The Karwendel Nature Park is a true paradise for hikers and bikers who want to experience Tyrol's alpine nature up close. With an area of 739 km², it is not only the largest protected area in Tyrol, but also the largest nature park in Austria – ideal for extensive hikes and varied bike tours. In Tyrol's high plateau, a well-developed network of trails unfolds through tranquil valleys, blooming alpine meadows, wild gorges, and primal forests.
Scharnitz is considered the "Gateway to the Karwendel" and, with the Nature Park Information Center Scharnitz, serves as the central starting point for numerous bike and hiking tours – such as through the cozy Hinterautal with the source of the Isar, the sportily challenging Karwendeltal, the tranquil Gleirschtal with the wild Gleirschklamm, or the quiet Gießenbachtal for those seeking relaxation.
Leutasch is located in the far northwestern part of the Karwendel and provides access to remote hiking trails in the Arnspitz Group. From here, routes lead to the prominent Großen Arnspitze as well as to quieter paths below the high peaks – ideal for those who wish to explore the Karwendel off the beaten track. Also, Seefeld and Reith offer tours to the southwestern corner of the Karwendel, such as to the Erlspitz Group, also known as the "Seefeld Group".
Visitor forecast today & in the coming days
Karwendeltal
Possibly sunny spells in the early morning, later heavy clouds with frequent thunderstorms.
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2026-09-16
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21 °C
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10 °C
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2026-09-17
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16 °C
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8 °C
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2026-09-18
max
15 °C
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8 °C
Hinterautal & Gleirschtal
Possibly sunny spells in the early morning, later heavy clouds with frequent thunderstorms.
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2026-09-16
max
21 °C
min
10 °C
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2026-09-17
max
16 °C
min
8 °C
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2026-09-18
max
15 °C
min
8 °C
(V) Conservation 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 photo recordings in the Karwendel nature park are becoming increasingly popular. However, due to the special protection status of the area, an official permit as well as adherence to specific behavioral rules is required. You can find detailed information on how to apply for filming or recording permits on this page.
Also note the general behavioral rules of the Karwendel nature park.
Important information for mountain bikers can be found here.
Taxi rides to all valleys and boat transports to 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 on weekdays and limited to a maximum of 4 rides per day. Transfers are not allowed on weekends and holidays.
Where the lady's slipper blooms and the golden eagle circles
Nature Park Karwendel – Habitat with Diversity and Significance
The nature park Karwendel encompasses almost the entire Karwendel massif and was expanded in January 2022 to include the existing nature reserve Arnspitze in the municipality of Leutasch. With an area of 739 km², it is the largest protected area in Tyrol – and at the same time the largest nature park in Austria.
It is characterized by an exceptionally high proportion of natural habitats such as primeval forests, wild rivers, and alpine pastures. This diversity provides refuge for numerous species of animals and plants that are significant throughout Europe – including the majestic golden eagle, the rare white-backed woodpecker, and the colorful lady's slipper. For centuries, traditional alpine forms of use such as alpine farming, forestry, and hunting have sustainably shaped the area.
In total, there are 101 alpine pastures in Karwendel. 16 municipalities and 5 Tyrolean tourism associations border the nature park – a striking testament to its natural and social significance. The focus areas of the nature park are in the fields of nature conservation, recreation & tourism, environmental education, as well as knowledge & research – for a sustainable future in harmony with alpine nature.
The Special Features of the Karwendel Nature Park
- Largest Nature Reserve in Tyrol
- Largest National Park in Austria
- Over 120 peaks higher than 2000 m (highest point: Birkkarspitze at 2749 m)
- 50 % of the area of the Karwendel Nature Park is forested; 11 natural forest reserves (512 ha without forestry use)
- Over 1300 plant species and more than 3000 animal species (including 96 breeding bird species and over 2200 beetle species)
- Highest density of golden eagles
- Wild river system Isar and Rißbach
- 340 springs of excellent water quality (10 % developed for drinking water)
- High naturalness in the forests and rivers
- Great Maple Plain as a unique cultural landscape
- 150 years of alpine history
- Partly great seclusion despite proximity to Munich and Innsbruck
- Wild rivers, gentle alpine meadows, near-natural forests, countless gravel roads, rugged cliffs and peaks – that's the Karwendel!
Understanding the Karwendel Nature Park: Habitat, Place of Learning and Digital Conservation Project
Dive into four compact videos and learn how the Karwendel Nature Park works, is protected, and why it is so important.
- 1. How does digital nature conservation work in the Karwendel Nature Park?
- 2. Explain to me the Karwendel Nature Park
- 3. The forest in the Karwendel Nature Park
- 4. What is biodiversity – and what does the Karwendel Nature Park do for it?
Learn how the Karwendel Nature Park stands as a pioneer of the Seefeld region for biodiversity, sustainability, and innovative environmental projects.
Nature Park Karwendel | Anton Heufelder
Lower Town Square 19, 6060 Hall in Tyrol
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