Meraner Höhenweg

In five to eight-day stages, experienced and sure-footed hikers cover nearly 100 kilometers, exploring the Texel Group Nature Park. Along the way, you’re treated to panoramic views – on clear days, the Dolomites and the Ortler Massif are visible. Particularly in the southern section, there are fantastic views of the city of Merano, the Adige Valley, and the Vinschgau.

The Merano Alta Via offers a glimpse into the world of South Tyrolean mountain farmers who, through centuries of hard work, have shaped and preserved this mountainous cultural landscape.

The lowest point of the trail is at 839 meters, and the highest point reaches almost 3,000 meters. The trail keeps the same elevation throughout the majority of the days making it a beautiful high route.

The first stage runs from Hochmuth to Giggelberg, which is about 13 kilometers. You’ll start by taking the Hochmuth cable car up the mountain before you actually get on the trail. From here, it follows well-marked paths along the southern slopes of the Texel Group, where you will hike through larch forests and get your first taste of the many open ridges to come, with views of the Etschtal Valley and Merano. You’ll stop for the night in Giggelberg, where you’ll stay in the mountain hut. The second stage continues from Giggelberg to Katharinaberg and is known for the “1000-Stufen-Schlucht,” a gorge loved by hikers for its countless steps, ladders, and narrow passages. It’s fun, but also can be a challenge! On this day, the trail crosses deep ravines and open meadows, alternating between woods and slopes, before descending to the Schnalstal Valley and the village of Katharinaberg.

From Katharinaberg, the third stage takes you through quiet mountain farms and alpine pastures into the Pfossental Valley, one of the most scenic and remote valleys in South Tyrol. The trail climbs steadily to reach the Eishof, a high pasture farm surrounded by peaks. You’ll sleep here in the Eishof Alm, just be sure to book it far ahead of time. The fourth stage from Eishof to Pfelders is one of the most demanding of the entire circuit. The route ascends through rocky terrain to the Eisjöchl at 2,895 meters, passing the Stettiner Hut, then drops into the Pfelderer Valley. The descent takes you through alpine meadows and past the Lazinser Alm before reaching the village of Pfelders. As of 2025, there is a trail closure on this stage, and you will need to detour via the Tumlhof farm. It’s going to add about 1.5h to your day, so it’s good to start early. The closure is expected to be present until 2026 at the earliest.

The fifth stage continues from Pfelders to Matatz. The trail softens here and is a bit easier after the demands of the day before. You will follow forest paths, gentler slopes, and farms as the trail goes through Ulfas and Christlhof. Finally, the last stage from Matatz back to Hochmuth closes the circuit. It climbs and descends through forested ridges, giving you open views over the Vinschgau Valley, Merano, and the Dolomites before returning to the starting point at Hochmuth.

The southern part of the trail can be done between May and October. The northern part, particularly the crossing over the Eisjöchl, should only be done without snow, which is still possible until the end of June. It’s hard to judge when the snow will be completely melted, so it can be helpful to call hut wardens before you head out to ask about the trail conditions. They will be able to give you real-time updates on trail accessibility and any abnormalities you need to plan for.

Preparing for the Meraner Höhenweg should not be taken lightly. This trail is only for experienced hikers and should be approached as such. While you sleep in accommodations each night, carrying a few safety items along with your normal clothes and toiletries is still important. Pack a basic first aid kit (and know how to use it!) with an emergency blanket, a mirror for rescue, and normal items for scrapes and injuries. It may also be helpful to take along some basic pills like paracetamol and some for allergies.

Before you start hiking, download the GPX and guidebooks to familiarize yourself with the route, including any potential hazards and emergency exit points.

Check the weather forecast before you start to hike because mountain conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared for different weather, including sudden changes in temperature, rain, and strong winds. Dress in layers and wear appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy boots with good traction.

Hiking in groups is recommended for safety, especially if you’re less experienced in the mountains. Stay on marked trails and avoid straying off-path to avoid getting lost.

Be mindful of your surroundings and watch out for potential hazards such as steep drops, loose rocks, and unstable footing. Take breaks when you need to rest and rehydrate, and listen to your body’s signals to avoid injury.

The Meraner Höhenweg is rated as a moderate trail, with a few difficult high-alpine sections. However, this is a trail only for experienced mountain hikers. While the itinerary can be adjusted for your personal preferences and it is possible to have shorter days, there are still a few sections that are more technical and require previous alpine hiking experience. You can still make your itinerary such that you hike just a few hours or longer, full days. This means you can go at your own pace and take it easy if you need to.