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The Legendary Zirbenweg

Glungezer

Innsbruck

Patscherkofel

A stunning traverse high above the Inn valley, this is one of the most famous hikes in the Tirol.

Hiking Moderate

Distance
7.5 km
Ascent
257 m
Descent
162 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
2 km
High Point
2.1 km
Gradient
The Legendary Zirbenweg Map

This is a non-strenuous hike, with huge views across Innsbruck and to the Karwendal mountain range behind. The path also winds through Europe’s oldest and largest population of pine trees, making this a historic route as well as a scenic one. The direction described here is the classic route, however it is also perfectly possible to do the reverse direction, starting from Glungezer and finishing at Patscherkofel, which would be more downhill than up.

Description

As you exit the lift station at the top of the Patscherkofel cable car you will see the wooden archway right above the lift station, carved with the words ‘Wilkommen am Zirbenweg’ leading the way eastwards to the start of the broad path.

The entire route is extremely well signposted, with the symbolic yellow Austrian markers pointing you in the right direction at every junction. Continue to follow the signs for Zirbenweg, and after around 1.5 hours you will reach a fork in the path, indicating that the Zirbenweg continues to the left, whereas to the right, those wishing to extend their hike can also tag the Glungezer peak or alternatively head for the Glungezerhütte.

From here the Tulfeinalm is another hour, and is a fantastic refreshment stop before the final 5 minutes to the finishing point at the top of the Glungezer lift system. Two consecutive chairlifts will take you down, the first being a very quaint and rather unique 1 man chair lift, followed by a slightly larger version to take you down to Tulfes.

There's an excellent bus network linking the Patscherkofel cable car and the lift system at Glungezer so logistics are simple for the day.

Difficulty

Moderate

Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between June and September

Features

  • Wildlife
  • Picturesque
  • Dog friendly
  • Wild flowers
  • Family friendly

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area