A REAL EXPERIENCE OF NATURE
Discover the Karwendel Nature Park
The Karwendel Nature Park is a true paradise for hikers and bikers who want to experience Tirol’s alpine nature up close. Covering 739 km², it is not only Tyrol’s largest protected area, but also Austria’s biggest nature park – perfect for long hikes and varied bike tours. On Tirols Hochplateau, a wide network of trails winds through quiet valleys, blooming alpine meadows, wild gorges, and untouched forests.
Scharnitz is known as the "Gateway to the Karwendel" and, with its Nature Park Info Center, is the main starting point for many bike and hiking tours – such as into the peaceful Hinterautal with the source of the Isar River, the more challenging Valley Karwendeltal, the quiet Gleirschtal with its wild gorge, or the calm Gießenbachtal for those seeking relaxation.
Leutasch lies at the far northwestern edge of the Karwendel and gives access to remote hiking routes in the Arnspitz range. Trails from here lead to the striking Große Arnspitze and to lesser-known paths below the high peaks – perfect for those who want to explore the Karwendel away from the crowds. Seefeld and Reith also offer access to the park’s southwestern corner, including routes to the Erlspitz group, also known as the “Seefeld Group.”
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.
Important information for mountain bikers can be found here.
Taxi Rides into the Valleys and Boat Transport into Hinterautal
From 1ˢᵗ June to 15ᵗʰ October every year
• Taxi and Minibusse Mair – Scharnitz T. +43 5213 5363
• Taxi Ramona – Gießenbach T. +43 5213 5541
Please contact the companies directly for information about rates and availability.
Where Lady’s Slipper Orchids Bloom and Golden Eagles Soar
Karwendel Nature Park – A Habitat of Diversity and Significance
Karwendel Nature Park covers nearly the entire Karwendel mountain range and was expanded in January 2022 to include the Arnspitze nature reserve in the municipality of Leutasch. With an area of 739 km², it is Tyrol’s largest protected area – and the largest nature park in Austria.
The park is known for its exceptionally rich variety of natural habitats, including ancient forests, wild rivers, and alpine pastures. This diversity offers vital refuge for many species that are important across Europe – such as the majestic golden eagle, the rare white-backed woodpecker, and the vibrant lady’s slipper orchid. For centuries, traditional alpine land use such as mountain farming, forestry, and hunting have shaped the area in a sustainable way.
There are 101 alpine pastures throughout the Karwendel. The park borders 16 municipalities and 5 Tyrolean tourism associations – a clear sign of both its ecological and social significance. The park’s main areas of focus include nature conservation, recreation & tourism, environmental education, and scientific research – all working together for a sustainable future in harmony with the alpine landscape.
The special features of the Karwendel Nature Park
- Tyrol's largest protected area
- Austria's largest nature park
- More than 120 peaks over 2,000 m (highest: Birkkarspitze at 2,749 m)
- 50% of the area is forested; 11 natural forest reserves (512 ha without forestry use)
- Over 1,300 plant species and more than 3,000 animal species (including 96 breeding bird species and over 2,200 beetle species)
- Highest density of golden eagles in the Alps
- Wild river systems: Isar and Rißbach
- 340 springs with excellent water quality (10% used as drinking water)
- Exceptional natural character in forests and rivers
- Großer Ahornboden: a unique cultural landscape
- 150 years of alpine history
- Remote wilderness – yet close to Munich and Innsbruck
- Wild rivers, gentle alpine meadows, natural forests, endless scree slopes, rugged rocks and peaks – that’s the Karwendel!
Discover how Karwendel Nature Park, a plateau pioneer in Region Seefeld, champions biodiversity, sustainability, and innovative environmental projects.
Naturpark Karwendel | Anton Heufelder
Unterer Stadtplatz 19, 6060 Hall in Tirol
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