Pfunderer Höhenweg

This trail starts in the lovely village of Sterzing (Vipiteno) at the train station. A forested path is the beginning of the first stage before you gradually go into alpine meadows where you get beautiful views of the Eisack Valley. After a green meadow, you reach the Gschließegg viewpoint (1,671m). Hiking further, the elevation increases. Also, you’ll experience a more rugged terrain where the peaks of the Zillertal Alps start to dominate the horizon.

From here you’ll ascend to the ridge northeast of the Höllenkragen. With slight ascents and descents, you’ll pass a narrow meadow ridge with a wooden cross. From the ridge, you will descend steeply in several hairpin turns. After 14 kilometers, the stage finishes at Simile-Mahd-Alm.

At the second stage, also the shortest of all five, you’ll experience one of the highlights of the trail. Not many kilometers this day, but a lot of ascending. After a steep climb, you will reach a couple of striking boulders. After that, you will see the impressive glacial lake Wilde See. When there is a calm atmosphere, you can clearly see the surrounding peaks in the reflection of the water.

Then, you’ll ascend steeply toward the highest peak in the Pfunderer mountain range: the Wilde Kreuzspitze (3,132m). Amazing panoramic views of the Dolomites and Austrian Alps are your reward here. If you want to avoid the tough climb over the scree and the small climb under the summit cross, it’s better to climb directly from the Rauhtaljoch. As you descend over scree you will see remnants of the glacier. Once in the valley, and a short climb later, you will reach the meadows of the Pfannealm and finally the Brixnerhütte.

Stage number three is both the longest and most demanding. That’s why this section is also known as the ‘queen stage’ of the Pfunderer Höhenweg. You’ll cross several mountain passes and rocky paths. After an hour or so, you’ll reach Steinkarscharte (2,608m). Here, you have amazing views of the impressive mountain landscape around the Weitenbergalm. From the mountain ridge, you will descend in several bends to the Weitenbergbach.

Later on, you will reach a grassy ridge, littered with boulders. After that, an unpleasant trek over grass and rubble in undulating terrain is next. It’s partly secured with ropes. If you want to have a break (or want to do this section in two stages), it’s possible to do that at the Walter Brenninger Biwak, a small shelter.

Dramatic ridgelines and deep valleys will follow. Here, you get the real alpine experience. You’ll have to go through the narrow rock gorge of the Gaisscharte where you’ll hop on a via ferrata, secured with an iron chain and footholds, that will lead you about 30 meters vertically into the depths. Then, you will climb over a rock field and pass a small lake. You’ll find yourself at the upper edge of the Eisbruggdal. Eventually, the day ends after approximately 14 kilometers at the Edelrauthütte.

The fourth stage will take you to the Tiefrastenhütte in about 14.5 kilometers. The rugged terrain from before will change into grassy ridges and rustic alpine lakes and you will go towards Eisbruggsee. When you reach Gruipaalm, you will walk over rolling grassy slopes and see the view of the Eidechsspitze and the Dolomites. After that, you get to the Passenjoch (2,407m) with stunning views of the Zillertal hills.

One of the most beautiful mountain lakes you’ll see on this trail is The Tiefrastensee. What makes it so unique is that the location of the hut is close to this lake.

At the final stage, you’ll be treated to a lot of long-distance views. When you reach Kleines Tor (2,374m), the view over the Mühlwaldertal opens up. The wide summit plateau of the Zwölferspitz will follow. After that, you’ll reach the highest point of this stage: Bärentaler Spitze (2,450m).

At Windeck, you will climb over some blocks and go right along the blocky ridge. Here, you will follow a ridgeline between the Mühlwalder Valley and Pustertal Valley. The high alpine landscape will transform more and more into forests and civilization, where you’ll see more traditional alpine farms. Finally, descending to St. Georgen near Bruneck is steep but really rewarding.

The best time of the year to hike The Pfunderer Höhenweg is from June to (early) October. As you’re hiking in the mountains, be aware that there might be snowfields in early summer and there might be early snowfalls in late summer and early autumn. Generally, the hiking season in the European Alps is limited to the summer months when the weather is milder and the snow has melted, making the trails accessible.

Keep in mind that the weather in the high mountains can change rapidly, and it’s important to be prepared for all conditions, including rain or snow. Always check trail conditions and local weather forecasts before starting a high-alpine hike. Additionally, consider your hiking experience and skill level, as some trails in the high Alps can be challenging and require proper equipment and experience.

Because it’s a high-altitude trail, it’s necessary to prepare yourself properly. You have to be experienced in hiking long distances, you have to deal with altitudes, and you need a good fitness level.

A lightweight backpack (30 – 40 liters) is ideal for carrying all your supplies, including snacks, water and extra clothing. There will be enough water resources during the trail, but it’s recommended to bring enough water with you (at least 2 liters). Because of the distances, elevation meters, and possible temperature changes, you will also want to bring some electrolytes and snacks.

Essential gear includes sturdy hiking boots with good grip, a detailed map or GPS device, and weather-appropriate clothing. You will also need to make sure you have the most current GPX downloaded to your device offline.

In this area, you can expect rapid weather changes (sunshine can quickly turn into rain or fog), so first of all: check the forecast daily with the hut wardens, and ahead of your trek for the longer forecast. Second: bring a waterproof jacket and layers for different temperatures. Hiking poles can help with balance on steep or uneven terrain. Check out our full gear list on hut-to-hut hikes here!

This hut-to-hut hike is great if you’re experienced with a good level of fitness. It involves several demanding ascents, technical rocky terrain, and long hiking days. A via ferrata set can be helpful for those who want extra security on exposed sections.

You should also be prepared for changing weather conditions, as high-altitude storms can develop quickly. It’s highly recommended to plan hut reservations in advance and check conditions before setting out.