Tyrol offers some of the most challenging long-distance hiking trails in the Alps, which require a high level of physical fitness and alpine experience. These include the Adlerweg, which is characterised by steep climbs and exposed paths in sections and requires a high level of fitness to complete. The Berliner Höhenweg in the Zillertal Alps, which is technically demanding and offers spectacular glacier views, is one of the most famous long-distance hiking trails in Austria. The Paznaun High Trail is characterised by alpine challenges and breathtaking panoramas. Other highlights are the Lechtaler Höhenweg and the Stubaier Höhenweg, which are only suitable for experienced hikers due to their alpine passages and long stages.
The listed Tyrolean long-distance hiking trails are particularly challenging due to their alpine nature. They often lead through high alpine regions with steep climbs, long stages and exposed passages. Trails such as the Berliner Höhenweg or the Adlerweg require surefootedness, a head for heights and stamina. Hikers also encounter changing weather conditions, which requires good planning and suitable equipment. The combination of technical difficulty and physical challenge makes these trails an experience for experienced mountaineers.
To master the challenging long-distance hiking trails in Tyrol, surefootedness and a head for heights are essential, especially on exposed passages. A good level of fitness is necessary to master long stages with large differences in altitude. Knowledge of meteorology and the ability to assess alpine dangers are just as important as the correct mastery of orientation techniques. Hikers should also be familiar with carrying a heavy rucksack and have basic first aid skills to be prepared for emergencies. In addition, some of these long-distance hiking trails lead to high altitudes just below the 3000 metre mark. At this altitude, snow fields often have to be crossed, even in summer.
