Gastein Trail - Every step takes you further

In principle, dogs may be taken on hikes. Dogs must be kept on a lead on hikes. If other animals (cows, horses, ...) come towards you, take the dog off the lead - it is faster than the other animals and can run away. In public transportation (buses, but also gondolas), dogs must be kept on a lead and muzzled.

If you want to take a dog with you, please contact the hut in advance.

The Trail Angels will organize your accommodation along the Gastein Trail - including the rustic mountain huts. All reservations are coordinated in advance to ensure your sleeping place in a shared room or dormitory. Please note: A sleeping bag is mandatory in some huts . Earplugs are also recommended for a good night's sleep. As not all mountain huts offer card payment, you should carry sufficient cash with you.

Even on a well-organized hike, it is important to be prepared for unforeseen situations. Please remember the following emergency numbers:

• Euro emergency number: 112

• Mountain rescue: 140

The Euro emergency number also works without a SIM card and in any available network. If you are in a dead zone, the following tip will help: switch your cell phone to flight mode or restart it. Instead of the PIN code, dial 112 directly.

For even more safety on the move, we recommend downloading the emergency call app. It is the easiest way in Austria to alert the rescue service or special forces such as mountain or water rescue. It connects you to the emergency rescue service and transmits your exact location at the same time.

The Gastein Trail is a long-distance hiking trail for experienced mountain hikers who want to move safely on marked hiking trails in alpine mountain regions at altitudes of up to 2,300 meters. For the Gastein Trail you need alpine hiking experience, which in addition to the correct self-assessment also includes experience in orientation in the terrain, including reading topographical maps and how to behave in bad weather.

We would like to point out that despite our tour organization on the Gastein Trail, you are on your own responsibility .

Hiking with a dog is possible on the Gastein Trail. However, if you take your four-legged companion with you on alpine pastures, there are a few basic rules to follow.

Technical demands: Moderate

• Moderately difficult mountain trails with red markings according to the Alpine Association

• Narrow, often steep passages

• Short insured sections may occur

• Weather-related challenges such as fog or slippery paths

Required: sure-footedness, alpine experience and a certain head for heights

Fitness requirements: higher to high

• Ascents of up to 1,300 meters depending on the stage

• Descents of up to 1,000 vertical meters depending on the stage

• Route length between 3 and 7.5 hours walking time

• The physical exertion varies depending on the stage.
  Particularly demanding: Stage 5 "Angertal - Sportgastein" with a walking time of up to 7.5 hours.
  Other stages such as stages 2, 3, 4 and 6 are shorter.

• The Gastein Trail is suitable for children aged 12 and over in very good physical condition.
• The long-distance hiking trails and trekking routes are less or not suitable for people with limited mobility due to their demands.
• Rest days can be planned individually.

Tip: It is strongly recommended that you prepare yourself by hiking similar physical demands beforehand as a day tour.

If you have any questions, please contact the Trail Info & Booking Center before booking.

You will need alpine hiking equipment for the Gastein Trail:

• High-quality hiking boots with good tread soles

• Weatherproof, warm clothing for high alpine sections (altitudes between 1,300 m and 2,300 m)

• Trekking poles strongly recommended (especially for descents)

• Sufficient provisions and water

• A hut sleeping bag is mandatory for certain stage destinations such as Heinreichalm and Hofgasteinerhaus

• We also recommend a towel and slippers (Biberalm)

Minimum equipment for this trip

The best time for a hike on the Gastein Trail is from mid-June to mid-September. During this time, the mountain pastures are open, the paths are usually free of snow and the conditions are ideal for a long hike lasting several days.

• June: The mountain pastures open after the winter, nature is fresh and blooming.

• July & August: Perfect conditions for hikes at altitudes between 1,300 and 2,300 meters. Pleasant temperatures despite the summer heat in the valley.

• September: Crystal-clear air, the onset of autumn colors and ideal hiking conditions - an insider tip for anyone looking for alpine tranquility.

Conditionally suitable: From mid-September to the end of October, when some mountain pastures are already closed. Early snowfall can also affect the route. The Trail Angels offer a special package with suitable stages for this period.

Unsuitable: The Gastein Trail is not accessible from November to mid-June. Snow and closed huts make hiking impossible during this time.

Nature in the Gastein Valley is a precious natural heritage - sensitive and powerful at the same time. Therefore, please stay on the marked paths, respect grazing areas and take your garbage back into the valley.

Protected plants are part of this valuable natural area and should grow where they belong. With your respectful behavior, you contribute to the long-term preservation of the mountain world.

Find out more about respectful treatment of grazing livestock.