Berliner Höhenweg

To start the hike, you’ll begin in Finkenberg and turn right behind the Teufelsbrücke (bridge) in the direction of Dornau and Brunnhaus. Shortly after the sports ground, the ascent begins via the Hermann-Hecht-Weg (No. 533). The route zigzags through the forest up to the Kraxentrager, and after about 1,000 meters of climbing, you’ll reach the Gamshütte (1,921 meters) with its unique outdoor shower.

The next day, you’ll set out via the Feldalm and Pitzenalm, to the Milchanger and Wesendlekarsee (lake) and eventually up to the Friesenberghaus (2,477 metres). In addition to breathtaking views, there’s plenty of wildlife. Next to cows and sheep, you might be able to encounter some marmots.

Stage 3 begins with a short descent followed by a steep climb up to Friesenbergscharte. The route then leads across green meadows to the Olpererhütte (2,389 meters) and steeply down to the turquoise-blue Schlegeisspeicher. There are restaurants along the riverside road where you can stop for refreshments. The route continues along the river until a steep path leads up to the Furtschaglhaus.

Next, you’ll experience the most challenging stage, which requires surefootedness and a strong head for heights. From the Furtschaglhaus, the route leads up to the Schönbichler Scharte (3,060 meters) over stone slabs and passages secured by wire ropes. In good weather, the summit has breathtaking views of the snow-covered peaks of the surrounding mountains. On the descent, there are more passages secured by wire ropes to overcome before continuing along the ridge to the bottom of the Garberkar and the northern lateral moraine of the Waxeggkee. From here, an ascending path leads over glacier-polished slabs to the Berliner Hütte (2,044 meters). It is both a listed building and also the largest Alpine Club hut in Tyrol.

From the Berliner Hütte, the route leads to Schwarz See, a lake, and steeply up to Rosskar and from there on to Mörchenscharte. The trail leads down to the Floitengrund and over the Floitenbach. On the other side, the ascent to the Greizer Hütte (2,227 meters) awaits, which will make the hearts of people on a vegetarian or vegan diet beat faster with the menu.

The next day, the route leads from the Greizer Hütte up to the Lapenscharte. The descent leads through the rope-secured gorge of the Eisenklamm and onwards over stone slabs, meadows, and suspension bridges to the Kasseler Hütte.

The penultimate stage continues on the Aschaffenburger Höhenweg over a challenging and quite long day’s stage to the Karl-von-Edel-Hütte.

On the descent from the Karl-von-Edel-Hütte to Mayrhofen in the Zillertal valley, there are a few more meters in altitude to conquer, which can be easily managed thanks to the serpentines.

The best time of the year to hike Berliner Höhenweg / Zillertaler Runde is usually from July to September when the paths are clear of snow and the huts are open.

The Berliner Höhenweg/ Zillertaler Runde is a challenging hike, that requires experience in alpine terrain, surefootedness, and proper equipment.

Invest in the right hiking gear, including comfortable, supportive footwear with a good grip, proper hiking clothing, such as warm base layers and a hardshell rain jacket, hiking poles, a well-fitted backpack, and essential equipment like maps, GPS devices (or the GPX on your mobile), and a first-aid kit. Check out our comprehensive gear list for long-distance trails like this.

To stay overnight in the mountain huts, bring a light sleeping bag, in addition to the provided blankets, and ear plugs for a restful night.

The weather in the high mountains can change rapidly. Always check the trail conditions and local weather forecasts, be prepared for all conditions, including rain, sun, or snow and alter your itinerary if needed.

Stay properly hydrated and nourished. Check that you have enough water and snacks to keep up your energy levels and prevent dehydration and exhaustion. Bring at least two liters of water with you each day.

Respect the principles of Leave No Trace by minimizing your impact on the environment. Stick to designated trails, take all your trash with you, and show respect for wildlife and natural habitats (keep your distance, don’t feed them).