> Short daily stages: manageable distances for kids with mountain experience
> Pure mountain hiking without any via ferrata sections
> Loop route: start and finish in the same village – no transfers, no stress
This loop offers just the right level of challenge for families looking to experience real mountain hiking. The trail begins in Gries, climbing through forests and meadows to reach the stunning Bergerseehütte. On day two, the route continues across panoramic slopes to Lasörlinghütte, where views of the Virgen Valley await. On the final day, descend gently back to Gries, completing the circuit.
Both huts, Bergerseehütte and Lasörlinghütte, offer traditional alpine hospitality, with tasty meals, comfy beds, and panoramic terraces. Children will enjoy spotting marmots and grazing sheep, while adults soak up the quiet beauty of East Tyrol’s wild side. The Mini Lasörling Höhenweg is a short but enriching adventure — perfect for mountain-loving families.
While this version of the Lasörling Höhenweg is tailored for families, it’s still a real mountain adventure. Expect rocky paths, steep sections both uphill and downhill, and hikes that range from 4 to 6 hours a day. Some parts of the trail cross unstable terrain with loose rocks and debris, and several sections are aided by fixed cables for added safety. This trek is best suited for families with older children who already have some experience in alpine environments.
Begin with a short, steady climb from Gries/St. Andrä to the Bergerseehütte, an ideal starting point for those seeking ax exciting alpine adventure. Although the trail is relatively straightforward, it gradually gains altitude and offers plenty of enjoyable distractions to keep your legs moving and your spirits high.
You will love the multiple scenic rest stops with wooden benches at key points, where you can relax and enjoy the views. Viewpoints such as those near Muhsköpfl and the Muhshöhenweg offer sweeping alpine panoramas - perfect for photos or simply taking in the magic of East Tyrol. You will also encounter waterfalls, such as the Zopatnitzenbach, and small streams that provide a refreshing natural feature.
Your efforts will be rewarded at Bergerseehütte with a beautiful terrace and tranquil mountain surroundings - the perfect place to unwind after a satisfying hike.
Today’s stage is short (around 5 km), which may sound easy at first. But don’t be fooled: this is one of the most adventurous parts of the trek. The trail starts with a steep climb of over 500 metres, with cables to assist in places. As you ascend, take time to look back and enjoy the stunning views of the Bergersee and the Bergersee Hut from above. The terrain can be tricky, with loose scree and rocks, so go steady, watch your step, and don’t hesitate to pause for breaks—the stretch is short, and it’s worth taking your time. After crossing the Berger Törl Pass, the descent begins, and before long the Lasörlinghütte comes into view, inviting you to rest and enjoy the scenery.
Optional hike: If the kids still have some energy left (or you do!), you can take an optional afternoon walk to the Virgentörl and Gritzerseen. It adds about 5 km and takes roughly 3 hours, but the mountain lakes and wide-open views are definitely worth the effort.
As you make your way down from Lasörlinghütte through alpine meadows and wooded trails, you will be treated to stunning mountain vistas. After a long descent, you will reach an impressive, recently built bridge over the Isel River at around kilometre 8. This is a spectacular viewpoint, so be sure to pause and admire the wild river below. Shortly afterwards, the trail evens out, offering a glimpse of another suspension bridge 84 metres above the rushing water. Wow!
As you follow the scenic Isel Gorge hiking trail, you can enjoy a 360° view of the gorge from a wooden viewing platform. Keep an eye out for the miniature mill wheel, the small waterfall and the memorial site along the way. Below the Timmelbach power station, you can see stone cairns that have been placed there by hikers over the years.
Near the end of the trail, you’ll cross one final bridge and join the Way of the Cross: a gentle, benched path. Take your time to enjoy the views before reaching Gries/St. Andrä and finishing your adventure!
