The first stage of the Classic Karwendel Multi-day Hike leads from Scharnitz in Tyrol deep into the Karwendel Nature Park. Starting at the Scharnitz Nature Park Information Center, the route follows the pristine Karwendel Valley to the Karwendelhaus at 1,765 metres. This approximately 18-kilometre hike is one of the most popular starting stages for multi-day hikes in the Karwendel and combines a technically easy route with a considerable distance and a steep final ascent.

The starting point is the Nature Park Information Center in Scharnitz, a central starting point for tours into the Karwendel valleys. From there, the route initially follows the Hinterautalstraße towards the Karwendel valleys. After around 500 metres, the Isar River is crossed via a bridge. Immediately afterwards, follow the signs towards the Karwendel Valley.

After the bridge, the trail leads uphill to the left. This short ascent of around 50 metres in elevation leads to the next junction, where the route turns right into the Karwendel Valley. From here, the long walk through one of the most unspoilt valleys in the Karwendel Nature Park begins.

The route continues steadily into the valley on a wide forest road. The broad Karwendel