This is a cleared winter hiking trail. However, icy or slippery spots may still occur.
The fourth and final stage of Tyrol’s first long-distance winter hiking trail initially takes us up to the Leutasch Katzenkopf and the mountain hut of the same name. A picturesque trail across the Schiltenwiese then provides the perfect finale, leading to Neuleutasch, the final destination of our journey.
The starting point is the music pavilion in Leutasch, which is also the endpoint of the previous stage. From there, the route first heads towards Lake Weidachsee. After a short stretch along the main road, turn left and continue along the sidewalk until, after another 200 metres, you reach a small bridge. After crossing the bridge, the trail continues uphill to the left until reaching the junction near Hotel Kristall. If your booked accommodation is Hotel Kristall, the tour can also be started directly from there. From here, the route follows the road uphill towards the Katzenkopfhütte until reaching a small turning area, where the ascent through the forest to the hut begins on the left-hand side. Shortly before reaching the destination, the path branches off to the right twice in quick succession before arriving at the hut.
The steady ascent through the peaceful winter landscape is rewarded with magnificent views over the snow-covered Leutasch Valley. Upon arrival at the Katzenkopfhütte, the cosy mountain hut invites hikers to enjoy a well-deserved break.
Before beginning the ascent, it is recommended to decide which route option to choose:
Option 1: Return to the valley by toboggan or lift Those wishing to finish the tour with a toboggan ride should rent a sled at the Katzenkopf lift valley station before starting the ascent. After a stop at the Katzenkopfhütte, the approximately fifteen-minute descent into the valley offers an action-packed and sporty finale. Please be aware of oncoming winter hikers at all times. The route also crosses the ski slope once, where extra caution is required. Alternatively, the Katzenkopf lift can be used for a comfortable ride back down to the valley.
Option 2: Continue hiking via the Schiltenwiese to Neuleutasch Those wishing to complete the full stage of the long-distance winter hiking trail return from the Katzenkopfhütte to the previous trail junction and then continue southwards through the snow-covered forests. Accompanied by spruce and larch trees and the tranquillity of winter, the trail leads to the scenic Schiltenwiese. Wide snowfields, traditional hay barns, and the peaceful atmosphere create a particularly memorable and atmospheric conclusion to the tour. From there, the descent begins towards the “Neuleutasch” bus stop, the official endpoint of the stage near the Gasthof Neuleutasch, which is an ideal place for a cosy refreshment stop. For the return journey to the starting point, the bus can be taken to the “Weidach Zentrum” bus stop. Alternatively, hikers can return on foot via the W16 winter hiking trail, which runs parallel to the road, although a short section follows the main road.
Refreshment stops along the route: • Katzenkopfhütte • Gasthof Neuleutasch
Scenic highlights: • Panoramic views at the Katzenkopfhütte • Tobogganing opportunity at Katzenkopf (Option 1) • Winter idyll at the Schiltenwiese (Option 2)
