Adlerweg: Hike From Hut-to-Hut in the Austrian Karwendel

The Eagle Walk, known in German as the Adlerweg, is one of the most famous treks in Tyrol, Austria. If seen from above, the Adlerweg map resembles the silhouette of an eagle hovering in the air with its wings spread wide open, therefore its name. This famous hike runs from east to west through the whole of Tirol and encompasses 33 stages and 413 kilometers.Unfortunately, we at Bookatrekking.com don't have time for that either. Fortunately, you can hike the most beautiful stages of the Adlerweg easily from Innsbruck. There is no better starting point than the Capital of the Alps for your walking holidays in Austria.

Completing the entire Adlerweg is a life goal for some hikers. Especially for Austrian hikers, tackling the 33 stages is high on the bucket list. Each stage has its own appeal of course and at Bookatrekking.com we know that a few stages stand out head and shoulders above the rest. In this blog post you will find the best options for the Adlerweg which you can also get to easily from Innsbruck.

The Eagle Walk in Austria - 33 Stages!?
When Is the Best Season To Do the Adlerweg?
Innsbruck: Capital of the Alps
Adlerweg Routes - Which Route Is Most Suitable?
Short Adlerweg From Innsbruck - 3 Stages
The Most Beautiful Part of the Adlerweg, 6 Stages
How do I get to the starting point of the Adlerweg?
Accommodation on the Adlerweg
Packing List for the Adlerweg
Food on the Adlerweg
Safe hiking tips for the Adlerweg
Where Can I Book the Adlerweg?

The Eagle Walk in Austria - 33 Stages!?

Despite being a 33-day trek, the Adlerweg is actually divided into 2 different routes. In North Tyrol you will find a 24 day trek in East Tyrol a shorter, 9 day, hut trek. The routes are not connected. If you want to do both, you have to travel from the end point to the starting point of the other route. The end point of the Northern Adlerweg is about 280 kilometers from the starting point of the Eastern Adlerweg. With 33 stages, you are easily two months and thus a full season on the road. Fortunately, from Innsbruck, which lies in the middle of the Adlerweg, you have a number of beautiful routes for walking holidays in Austria. Keep reading and you will find more information about these hut-to-hut tours.

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When Is the Best Season To Do the Adlerweg?

Like most treks in the region, the Adlerweg can be hiked from mid-June to mid-September. During this time of the year, the chances of finding snow at higher altitudes are lower. However, always look up the weather forecast before starting your trek and be aware that, on the mountains, weather can be unpredictable. At the huts, the staff will also be able to give you some guidance and inform you of the conditions of the trails.

Innsbruck: Capital of the Alps

Ideal starting point for hut-to-hut tours in Tyrol is Innsbruck. No wonder, because Innsbruck is popularly known as the Capital of the Alps. From here you can be in Neustift, the starting point for the Stubaier Höhenweg or Vals for the Peter Habeler Runde, for example, within an hour by public transport or car. For the easiest and perhaps most beautiful blow you can also just stay in Innsbruck. Innsbruck is in the middle of the Adlerweg route and gives direct access on foot to the Karwendel, one of the most famous mountain ranges in Tyrol.

Innsbruck Airport, also known locally as Kranebitten, is the largest international airport in Western Austria. It is close to the city and you can get flights to Innsbruck from all over Europe. There are greener options of course: In cooperation with the ÖBB, the Austrian railroads, you can take the Nightjet from several European cities. This is the comfortable night train that takes you directly to Innsbruck.

At Bookatrekking.com, we not only book your huts, we also send you on your way with a comprehensive hiking guide with the most important information for your Adlerweg, including interactive Komoot maps. Browse all our options here and turn your dreams into reality.

Adlerweg Routes - Which Route Is Most Suitable?

33 stages are something that you don't just walk. That is why we have mapped out 2 routes for you where distance, accommodation and accessibility are well matched. Both routes start from Innsbruck, are a great option for a short walking trip and can be booked at Bookatrekking.com.

Short Adlerweg From Innsbruck - 3 Stages

If you want to enjoy the beauty of Tyrol for a long weekend, then this short Adlerweg is for you. From Innsbruck you hike via the Pfeishütte and the Halleranger Alm eventually to Scharnitz. From there, it's only a 45-minute train ride back to Innsbruck.

Day

1

Innsbruck - Pfeishütte

Duration: 07:05 h

Distance: 10.7 km

Ascent: 1490 m

Descent: 390 m

Our hike starts in fantastic Innsbruck, at Bergstation Hungerburg. Here you have the option of covering the first part of the hike with the Seegrubenbahn which leads all the way to Bergstation Nordkette. This tempting choice can easily save you over 800 meters in altitude and keep your legs fit for the remaining three hours along the Mandlspitze to the Pfeishütte. Prefer not to take the cable car? You hike zigzagging from Hungerburg Bergstation through Taubental to Goetheweg, which connects with Adlerweg.

Pfeishütte

Info

Day

2

Pfeishütte - Hallerangerhaus

Duration: 04:10 h

Distance: 7.5 km

Ascent: 400 m

Descent: 550 m

Your first morning in the Karwendel. Today you hike along the Kleine Stempeljochspitze and descend into the Isstal. You also have the option of hiking via the Wilde-Band-Steig to the Hallerangerhaus, but please note: This is a fairly technical variant. At Kahlstatt the two different options meet up again and from here you hike through the Durchslag (Doorslag) to the Hallerangerhaus, which has been a loyal support point for mountain sports in the Karwendel since the early 1900s.

Hallerangerhaus

Info

Day

3

Hallerangerhaus - Scharnitz

Duration: 06:15 h

Distance: 18.7 km

Ascent: 30 m

Descent: 840 m

Today's route is only downhill. After a good breakfast, you hike for about an hour on a wide trail out of the valley toward the Kastenalm. From the Kastenalm, it's an easy hike with a brisk descent to Scharnitz. From Scharnitz it is only 45 minutes by train back to Innsbruck.

Did you know that we can book all huts and refuges for the Adlerweg for you? Check out all our options here.

The Most Beautiful Part of the Adlerweg, 6 Stages

This 6-day trek is aimed at trekkers who have more free days and want to experience a real hiking adventure in Tyrol. During this trek you start your hike in Innsbruck Tyrol, the classic starting point of the Adlerweg, and end in Maurach am Achensee.

Day

1

Innsbruck - Pfeishütte

Duration: 07:05 h

Distance: 10.7 km

Ascent: 1490 m

Descent: 390 m

Our hike starts in fantastic Innsbruck, at Bergstation Hungerburg. Here you have the option of covering the first part of the hike with the Seegrubenbahn which leads all the way to Bergstation Nordkette. This tempting choice can easily save you over 800 meters in altitude and keep your legs fit for the remaining three hours along the Mandlspitze to the Pfeishütte. Prefer not to take the cable car? You hike zigzagging from Hungerburg Bergstation through Taubental to Goetheweg, which connects with Adlerweg.

Pfeishütte

Info

Day

2

Pfeishütte - Hallerangerhaus

Duration: 04:10 h

Distance: 7.5 km

Ascent: 400 m

Descent: 550 m

Your first morning in the Karwendel. Today you hike along the Kleine Stempeljochspitze and descend into the Isstal. You also have the option of hiking via the Wilde-Band-Steig to the Hallerangerhaus, but please note: This is a fairly technical variant. At Kahlstatt the two different options meet up again and from here you hike through the Durchslag (Doorslag) to the Hallerangerhaus, which has been a loyal support point for mountain sports in the Karwendel since the early 1900s.

Hallerangerhaus

Info

Day

3

Hallerangerhaus - Karwendelhaus

Duration: 09:15 h

Distance: 14.2 km

Ascent: 1390 m

Descent: 1360 m

Today one of the most beautiful stages of the Adlerweg is on the program. Compared to the previous stages you are on the road a little longer and you tackle also quite a few more altimeters, but it's all worth it. You hike from the Hallerangerhaus to the Karwendelhaus and along the way you are surrounded by different peaks like the Birkköpfe, the Sägezähne and the Hochjöchlspitze. You don't have to conquer these, but you do have the opportunity at the authentic Birkkarhütte to tap the 2749 meter high Birkkarspitze. Not suitable for hikers with vertigo. Then you descend to the Karwendelhaus for a well-deserved freshly tapped beer.

Karwendelhaus

Info

Day

4

Karwendelhaus - Falkenhütte

Duration: 03:55 h

Distance: 8.8 km

Ascent: 470 m

Descent: 420 m

After two long days, today is an easy-going stage that takes you on the 10th stage of the Adlerweg through the Filztal. A mix of cart and forest paths lead you via the most beautiful Almen to the other side of the Karwendel, where you will find the Falkenhütte. Enjoy a Tyrolean meal in this renovated classic mountain hut.

Falkenhütte

Info

Day

5

Falkenhütte - Lamsenjochhütte

Duration: 05:45 h

Distance: 12 km

Ascent: 830 m

Descent: 720 m

This morning you'll descend along the Lalider mountain walls to the Hohljoch. It is worth stopping for a good cup of coffee and a piece of Apfelstrüdel in the hamlet of Eng. It is believed that this pasture has been used by local farmers for hundreds of years and you will find a good piece of Almenkäse anyway. The relatively short day you continue via the Binsalm to today's destination, the Lamsenjochhütte.

Lamsenjochhütte

Info

Day

6

Lamsenjochhütte - Maurach

Duration: 06:30 h

Distance: 17.5 km

Ascent: 50 m

Descent: 1050 m

After a last breakfast in the Karwendel it is time to descend. Via the Käsealm Fritze Hittn you hike along the Wiesenweg past the Sennhütte Falzthurn. A perfect opportunity for a last plate of jausen and a glass of beer. From here it's only about three hours to the Achensee and today's final destination, Maurach. Straight back to Innsbruck? You hike past Achensee Speespitz station, from where you can take the train.

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How do I get to the starting point of the Adlerweg?

As one of Austria's most important cities, Innsbruck is easily accessible by plane, train or bus. This makes it the ideal base for the Adlerweg. Even if you decide to take the plane, the ride from the airport to the city center takes only 20 minutes by bus or train. After the tour, the journey back to Innsbruck is also very easy. The whole region is well connected by public transport and we have chosen convenient endpoints where you can easily take a bus or train back to the city.

Accommodation on the Adlerweg

The accommodation options on the Adlerweg are very varied. On the mountain you can spend the night in mountain huts in shared rooms. Mountain huts usually offer shared accommodation in what they call "Matratzenlager". Bathrooms and showers are also shared. The huts are usually located at strategic points offering great views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. At the end of each stage you can relax and enjoy a hot meal and even a beer. Most huts are on a half-board basis, which means that breakfast and dinner are included. Don't expect too much luxury, after all you are in the middle of the mountains. However, despite being mountain huts and offering shared sleeping space, the huts on the Adlerweg are well equipped and offer a fine level of comfort.

Packing List for the Adlerweg

It doesn't matter where you are going trekking or for how long: Carrying the right equipment with you is paramount. For a hiking trip in the mountains, you will need, first and foremost, a good backpack. Its size will depend on how many days you will be spending in the mountains, the season, and the clothes you will be taking with you. We have prepared a packing list with some essential clothing that you should include and some extras that you may find useful:

Essentials
Extras

Not sure yet or want to discuss your plans for the Adlerweg with one of our trekking experts? Get in touch today and turn your dreams into memories!

Food on the Adlerweg

Since all the huts can be stocked relatively easily, you can expect a certain level of comfort in the huts. Meals already come in all forms and you can get most of the drinks that are also available in the valley. So if you thought you could get a Wiener Schnitzel and a Weizen at 2,000 meters above sea level, you're right. The most comfortable way for you and the hut host is to book your accommodation with half board. This way, the host can calculate how much food needs to be brought to the hut and you have the opportunity to have a fresh meal during the hike. The food in the huts on the Aadlerweg consists of typical Austrian and Tyrolean dishes, is nutritious and vegetarians and vegans are also catered for.

Coffee, tea and other beverages can be purchased, but they may also be included in the half board. Most huts have a fully equipped kitchen and this means that you don't have to eat the same meal every day. The meals can be prepared in a variety of ways and as you can see from the photo of the Karwendelhaus above, there is always a glass of beer to be found.

Safe hiking tips for the Adlerweg

When you go on walking holidays it is wise to be aware of a few points. Even if this is not your first time, you should never underestimate the mountains. Good tour planning and compliance with the regulations on the mountains will significantly increase safety. To ensure that your hiking holiday is a safe and enjoyable experience, here below you can find a list of 8 recommendations for safe hiking in the mountains:

Know your limits

Hiking the Adlerweg is the perfect outlet to escape from daily life. It is an endurance sport along with a beautiful nature experience with a positive effect on body and mind —as long as one is in good shape and has a realistic picture of one's possibilities and limits—. Never overestimate yourself or underestimate the route. Don't overdo it! Always choose the slower variant and take more time for your plans. Hiking under time pressure is not fun and at too fast a pace it can be dangerous. Be wise!
Plan carefully

Good planning is half the work! Hiking maps, literature, the Internet and expert advice are invaluable when planning the route in the Adlerweg and enable you to determine the length, altitude difference, difficulty and conditions of the hike. When planning group treks, the itinerary should always be planned for the weakest member of the group! The weather in the mountains can change incredibly quickly and rain, wind and cold all increase the risk factor. For this reason, always check the weather forecast beforehand and contact our trekking experts to find your way around before you start.
Be fully equipped

Equipment is everything. In the most extreme case, it makes the difference between life and death, and in any case, it definitely makes the difference between having fun and having a bad time. Food and water, sunscreen and waterproof and warm clothes must always be in your backpack, as well as a first aid kit and a mobile phone with a full battery (in case there is an emergency). However, packing light makes walking easier, so don't take too much extra luggage with you. Your equipment should always be suitable for the terrain you'll be hiking on in the Adlerweg.
Wear suitable footwear

Good walking shoes protect your feet and provide a better fit. Shoes with a good fit, with non-slip soles, water-resistant and lightweight are a must for additional walking pleasure during the Adlerweg. Trail running shoes are great for a weekend in the mountains, but on longer hikes or more technical trails, you'll want at least A/B hiking boots. That means it is recommended wearing high mountain shoes that are water-repellent with extra ankle support to prevent sprains.
Stay on marked trails

Adlerweg has endless marked hiking trails, which are controlled and maintained and should not be deviated from. It may be tempting, but it's not a good idea to take shortcuts or alternative routes through unmarked terrain. It increases the risk of disorientation and you're more likely to get lost and have accidents or fall in the mountains. Even steep slopes of packed old snow are often underestimated and dangerous. Are you in doubt? Better don't do it. For easy navigation we work with our trusted partner Komoot, whose interactive maps, also available offline, provide you with the necessary digital means to get from A to B. As a backup, make sure to bring a hiking guide or a paper map with you. FYI, 75% of stumbles occur due to carelessness on marked paths or roads, not in open terrain!
Take regular breaks

Remember you're on a hiking holiday. Timely and regular breaks not only provide welcome relaxation but also make it possible to enjoy the Adlerweg. The body needs a regular food and drink intake to maintain performance and concentration. Our advice is that if you have little time, it's better to follow the short itinerary than to speed up the long one.
Stay reachable

If you are hiking solo or in small groups it is advisable to inform people back home about your plans, what route you are taking and when you plan to return. Even small incidents can lead to unpleasant emergencies so make sure you are available at all times. Bring a charged phone containing at least the phone numbers of immediate family members, your accommodations en route and the emergency phone numbers operating in the Adlerweg.
Respect nature

Leave no rubbish behind, prevent noise, stay on the marked trails, do not disturb wildlife or grazing animals, and respect protected areas.

Where Can I Book the Adlerweg?

At Bookatrekking.com you can book the self-guided Adlerweg and many other treks. We take care of all the details for you, including arranging accommodations and providing you with relevant information well in advance of your trek. Find our offers here. Our easy-to-use platform allows you to browse and compare different trekking options and find the perfect fit for your interests, abilities, and budget.

If you have any questions about a specific trek or need help choosing the right one for you, our team of trekking experts is here to assist you. Simply reach out to us and we will be happy to provide you with personalized recommendations and advice to help you plan the trekking adventure of a lifetime.

Is the Adlerweg not your cup of tea and are you looking for other epic adventures? Check out one of our following blog posts:

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Switzerland
- Via Alpina 1
- Kesch Trek
Slovenia
- Hut-to-hut in Slovenia
- Climb Mount Triglav
Italy
France
Spain
Albania
- Peaks of the Balkan Trail
Greece
Iceland
- Laugavegur Trail
- Fimmvörðuháls Hike

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Destinations

Trekking Type

Adlerweg: Hut-to-Hut Hiking in the Austrian Karwendel

By

Contents

The Eagle Walk in Austria - 33 Stages!?

Book Now

Short Adlerweg from Innsbruck

Short Adlerweg - Including accommodation before and after

When Is the Best Season To Do the Adlerweg?

Innsbruck: Capital of the Alps

Adlerweg Routes - Which Route Is Most Suitable?

Short Adlerweg From Innsbruck - 3 Stages

Innsbruck - Pfeishütte

Pfeishütte

Pfeishütte - Hallerangerhaus

Hallerangerhaus

Hallerangerhaus - Scharnitz

The Most Beautiful Part of the Adlerweg, 6 Stages

Innsbruck - Pfeishütte

Pfeishütte

Pfeishütte - Hallerangerhaus

Hallerangerhaus

Hallerangerhaus - Karwendelhaus

Karwendelhaus

Karwendelhaus - Falkenhütte

Falkenhütte

Falkenhütte - Lamsenjochhütte

Lamsenjochhütte

Lamsenjochhütte - Maurach

How do I get to the starting point of the Adlerweg?

Accommodation on the Adlerweg

Packing List for the Adlerweg

Essentials

Extras

Food on the Adlerweg

Safe hiking tips for the Adlerweg

Know your limits

Plan carefully

Be fully equipped

Wear suitable footwear

Stay on marked trails

Take regular breaks

Stay reachable

Respect nature

Where Can I Book the Adlerweg?

Austria

Switzerland

Slovenia

Italy

France

Spain

Albania

Greece

Iceland

Comments

About Us

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