Attention: The Wetterstein Hut remains closed until further notice.
The Pasture Paradise Gaistal Valley truly lives up to its name. Meadows, forests, and the Wetterstein mountains in perfect harmony, lively streams, and top-notch culinary delights make for an unforgettable hiking experience. This route, certified with the Austrian Hiking Seal of Quality, leads you through diverse landscapes to two of the most beautiful alpine huts in the region. And when you happen to meet a grazing cow, a marmot, or even a chamois along the way, the word paradise no longer feels like an exaggeration.
This special tour starts directly at the Stupfer car park, where the trail leads left uphill into the forest. Here’s where you leave behind your daily routine and worries for the next four hours and prepare mentally for the upcoming ascent. You’ll climb about 400 metres towards the impressive rock faces of the Wetterstein mountains. Then you can choose: either take the gentle forest road No. 9 leading directly to the Wangalm, or follow the steeper trail on the left. The latter passes the currently closed Wettersteinhütte, from where it’s just a short walk to the Wangalm. This cosy little alpine hut delights not only with its menu but also with its view: the Wetterstein mountains at your back, the Hohe Munde opposite, and the Karwendel range in the distance create a panorama served on a silver platter. Down in the valley, the tiny houses of Leutasch and Seefeld complete the picture-perfect scene.
With a full stomach and an even fuller heart, it’s time to shoulder the backpack again – there’s still plenty of Gaistal Valley magic ahead. Walk back a short stretch until the Wurziger Steig begins above the Wettersteinhütte and leads steadily downhill. Surrounded by peaceful forests and always accompanied by the mighty flank of the Wetterstein mountains, you’ll quickly feel like a small part of a grand natural stage. Knowing that your next destination is the “Alpine Hut of the Year 2025,” you can fully soak in your surroundings. After descending about 300 metres and crossing the small Salzbach stream (perfect for cooling your feet on hot days), the forest opens up onto the wide alpine meadow of the Hämmermoosalm. In summer, the sound of cowbells fills the air – it doesn’t get more Tyrolean than this. The popular hut invites you to reflect on your memories over a sweet dessert on the sunny terrace.
To finish, continue at an easy pace as you leave the Gaistal Valley, where another highlight awaits. Upon reaching the Salzbach car park, you’ll see a sign for the “Kneipp & Water Play Area”. Definitely stop by! Here the Salzbach joins the Leutascher Ache, and this shaded spot offers plenty: Kneipp pools, large wooden loungers, water games for children, and a small barefoot path to reawaken your senses.
Even though it’s hard to say goodbye to this beautiful place, the last section back to the Stupfer car park is equally charming. Instead of walking along the road, you’ll cross the Leutascher Ache and follow it downstream for a few hundred metres until you reach the next bridge. Don’t be surprised if you meet dogs off-leash – this area is one of the region’s designated area for dogs (off-leash). Once you’ve crossed the bridge, you’ll find yourself back at the Stupfer car park and the bus stop.
Of course, the route can be done in various ways. If you prefer to hike it in reverse, you can start your day with a fantastic alpine brunch at the Hämmermoosalm. Those who like to set off later can also stay overnight at the Wangalm (reservation required). There you might even get inspired for a climbing tour, as many climbers frequent this area.
