Eagle Walk Stage 15: Solsteinhaus - Scharnitz - Leutasch/Ahrn

Description

Route: Solsteinhaus - Eppzirler Scharte - Eppzirler Alm - Giessenbachklamm gorge - Scharnitz - Leutasch/Ahrn

Route description:
From the Solsteinhaus, head in a northwesterly direction through scree and rocks to the Eppzirler Scharte and further down to the Eppzirler Alm. Now a wide road leads leisurely falling out of the Eppzirler valley and further along the Giessenbach, through the wildly romantic Giessenbachklamm gorge out of the valley. From the village of Giessenbach, the trail continues west of the railroad tracks and the main road to Scharnitz, but soon turns left in the direction of Hoher Sattel. Beyond the Hoher Sattel, the trail descends steeply on a forest path to Leutasch/Ahrn.

Advice:
Surefootedness required for crossing the Eppzirler Scharte (steep scree slopes on both sides of the Scharte); suitable for children 12 years and older.

Highlights:

• Surrounded by bizarre rock formations, enjoy the peace and solitude of the Karwendel mountains on the Eppzirler Scharte.
• The Hohe Sattel gives you a perfect view of the Hohe Munde (2,662 meters) and further into the Gaistal. Behind you, you can see into the Karwendel valleys.
• Around the Eppzirler Alm stretches an extensive alpine pasture area. Later you hike through a beautiful mixed forest and further on through the Gießenbachklamm gorge.
• When farmers from the Inn valley built the Schwaighöfe in the 12th century, the foundation stone for the community of Leutasch was laid. Today, the village comprises 24 hamlets in a high valley at 1,100 meters above sea level.
• Surefootedness is necessary for crossing the Eppzirler Scharte. Experienced children from the age of 12 can easily manage the stage.
• Possible crossings are: From Scharnitz through the Gleirsch and Kristental to the Solsteinhaus.