Tyrol is Austria's most spectacular alpine state, home to the historic city of Innsbruck and some of Europe's finest mountain scenery. Bordered by Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and the Austrian states of Salzburg, Vorarlberg, and Carinthia, Tyrol offers world-class skiing in winter and superb hiking in summer.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Zillertaler Höhenweg
One of the classic alpine multi-day routes in the Alps, the Zillertaler Höhenweg is a high-level ridge walk traversing the full length of the Zillertal Alps from Mayrhofen to Ginzling (or in the reverse direction). The route links a series of high-altitude mountain huts (Hütten) and crosses multiple passes above 2,700m. Spectacular glacier views throughout.
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2
Nordkette High Trail above Innsbruck
Accessible directly from Innsbruck city via the Nordkettenbahn cable car, the Nordkette ridge walk offers extraordinary panoramic views over Innsbruck and the Inn Valley with 500+ peaks visible on clear days. The classic route runs from Hafelekar (2,334m) along the ridge to Sadrach and back. Sections are exposed and require sure-footedness.
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3
Stubaier Höhenweg
A circular high-level route through the Stubai Alps, one of Tyrol's finest multi-day treks. The circuit links seven classic mountain huts, crosses the Stubaier Wildspitze area, and offers close-up views of the Stubai Glacier. The route can be shortened or extended and is well-documented.
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4
Kaiserweg (Emperor Trail)
A long-distance trail crossing the Wilden and Zahmen Kaiser mountain ranges near Kufstein in eastern Tyrol. The route traces the footsteps of Emperor Franz Joseph and passes through stunning rocky limestone karst terrain, alpine meadows, and traditional Tyrolean villages. Excellent hut accommodation throughout.
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5
Ötztal High Trail (Ötztaler Urweg)
A comprehensive multi-stage trek through the entire Ötztal, from the Inn Valley near Haiming to the high glacier at the Austrian-Italian border. Passes through Sölden, the Ötztal Glacier, and the wildly scenic terrain where Ötzi the Iceman was discovered in 1991. Remote high-alpine sections require experience.
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6
Kitzbüheler Horn Trail
The Kitzbüheler Horn (1,996m) offers a satisfying half-day hike from Kitzbühel town with wonderful panoramic views over the Kitzbüheler Alps, the Wilder Kaiser, and on clear days as far as the Zugspitze. The summit Alpine Flower Garden (Alpenblumengarten) is Austria's highest botanical garden, spectacular from June to August.
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7
Seefeld Plateau Nature Trails
The Seefeld Plateau at 1,200m above sea level offers an extensive network of easy, well-marked walking paths through alpine meadows, forests, and past small lakes. Ideal for families, those looking for gentle exercise, or as a relaxing alternative to demanding alpine hikes. The plateau is particularly beautiful in early summer when meadows are full of wildflowers.
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8
Achensee Round Walk
The full circuit of Achensee — Tyrol's largest lake — is a rewarding full-day walk with constant lake views and the dramatic Karwendel mountain walls as a backdrop. The route can be broken into sections using the lake ferry. The northern and southern ends of the lake are connected by ferry service.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.
Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.
Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.