Description

This is a true classic of Innsbruck and takes you to one of the most celebrated mountain huts in the region - the Arzler Alm.

The hut can be reached by following a good jeep track (check out our "Arzler and Umbruggler Alms Loop" bike route for directions) or by taking this slightly tougher but much more enjoyable hiking trail. Start at the Hungerburg cable car station to the north of Innsbruck.

This can be reached by car, bus, train or foot and enjoys a fabulous view over Innsbruck city.

Climb up through the lovely suburbs of Hungerburg village and cross over a jeep track to reach the foot of the trail proper.

Climb the trail (which is initially slightly rocky and fairly steep but quickly mellows and becomes easier) as it winds up through lovely, peaceful forests.

The hiking is somewhat steep in places but the trip is short enough that, given a few pauses for breath, hikers of virtually all abilities will be able to do it. The hut in invisible until you are about to arrive, and it's a lovely surprise to see the hut just above you when you emerge from the forest.

The hut offers great food and drink, and there's a petting zoo too for the kids (and adults)! It's perfectly possible to descend back to Hungerburg via the ascent route or the aforementioned jeep track, but the nicest way to descend is to do the loop drawn here.

Climb west away from the Arzler Alm up a jeep track and then, when this meets another track, turn left and begin descending into a denser forest.

Keep going down towards Hungerburg and, shortly before reaching the station you'll end up underneath the cable car's cables.

Stroll down to Hungerburg and back down to Innsbruck.