Multi-day Hike in the Karwendel Nature Park
The Classic Karwendel Multi-day Hike | Multi-day Hike in Tyrol
The Classic Karwendel Multi-day Hike leads in three stages from Scharnitz through pristine Karwendel valleys, past impressive alpine pastures, and with views of the striking Karwendel peaks, all the way to Pertisau at Lake Achensee. This multi-day hike is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the Karwendel at their own pace, with all their senses, and in a truly authentic way.
Highlights
- Total Distance: 53.5 km | 2,180 m ascent | 2,210 m descent | 3 stages
- Route & Accommodation: From Scharnitz to Pertisau at Lake Achensee through the heart of the Karwendel, with overnight stays at the Karwendelhaus and Falkenhütte.
- Nature Park & Biodiversity: Largest nature park in Austria and the biggest protected area in Tyrol; home to over 1,300 alpine plant species and more than 3,000 animal species.
- Scenic Highlights: Karwendel Valley with the Karwendelbach, Kleiner & Großer Ahornboden, Laliderer Wände, Almdorf Eng, Falzthurntal.
- Karwendelmarsch – The Legend Lives On! For those who want to complete the entire route in a single day, participation in the Karwendelmarsch is possible, held every year on the last Saturday in August.
Requirements & Notes
• Hut Reservations: Advance booking is essential; make overnight reservations directly with the huts well in advance.
• Realistic Self-Assessment & Fitness: The tour is intended for experienced hikers who can cover longer distances and have a good base level of fitness.
• Route Planning: The hike can be planned individually depending on fitness, time, and personal preferences; suggestions for alternatives can be found in the stage descriptions.
• Weather Considerations: Check weather and conditions regularly before and during the hike; adjust stages flexibly or extend the tour if necessary.
• Navigation: Bring a hiking map and download GPX data in advance.
• Early Start & Time Reserves: Long stages and some steeper ascents make early start times advisable.
• Safety Measures: Inform family members or your accommodation of your route, know emergency numbers (EU emergency: 112, Mountain Rescue: 140), and use a safety app if possible.
What to Expect on the Stages
Stage 1: From Scharnitz to the Karwendelhaus
The first stage of the Classic Karwendel Multi-day Hike starts at the Scharnitz Nature Park Information Center and leads through the Karwendel Valley up to the Karwendelhaus. A scenic stage that is technically easy but challenging mainly due to its length and the steeper final ascent.
Stage 2: From the Karwendelhaus to the Falkenhütte
Between the Karwendelhaus, Kleiner Ahornboden, and Falkenhütte, the Karwendel Nature Park reveals one of its most characteristic sides. Maple trees, mixed mountain forests, and the imposing Laliderer Wände rock faces shape this impressive stage.
Stage 3: From the Falkenhütte via Eng to Pertisau at Lake Achensee
To complete the Karwendel crossing, the Großer Ahornboden, Almdorf Eng, and the Falzthurntal await. A long and varied final stage that eventually leads to Pertisau at Lake Achensee.
The Huts in Detail
On the Classic Karwendel Multi-day Hike, overnight stays are at the Karwendelhaus and the Falkenhütte. Advance booking is essential for both huts. Please make your reservations directly with each hut.
Packing List for the Multi-day Hike
Basic Equipment:
- Backpack up to 40 litres with rain cover, hut sleeping bag, cash, water bottle or hydration bladder, headlamp or torch, first-aid kit, pocket knife, small rubbish bag, mobile phone with saved emergency numbers, hiking map.
Clothing & Weather Protection:
- Hiking boots and socks, functional underwear and shirts, trekking trousers, insulation layer such as fleece, Primaloft, down or merino, rain jacket and rain trousers, hat or thin gloves, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Hut, Hygiene & Food:
- Wash bag with hygiene items, small towel, snacks such as fruit or muesli bars.
Optional:
- Hiking poles, windstopper jacket, emergency bivvy bag, earplugs, blister plasters and tape.
Emergency Numbers
Mountain Rescue – Alpine Emergency: 140
EU Emergency Number: 112
Smartphone users are advised to install the emergency app of the Tyrol Control Centre. It supports emergency calls and automatically transmits your current location.
