Winter hike Stage 1: From Schanz to Weidach – Tyrol’s 1. Winter Multi-day Hike

Description

For a multi-day hiking adventure, it’s important to take your time and arrive early. If you come the night before, you can enjoy the atmosphere of the Seefeld Plateau and start the first leg of your journey the next morning, well-rested and full of energy.

The first section of Tyrol's first long-distance winter hiking trail leads through the picturesque Leutasch Valley. The starting point of the long-distance winter hike is in the district of Schanz - you can get there either by bus (bus stop ‘Schanz’) or by car. The car park (limited parking spaces), which is located directly in Schanz behind the information hut, is prepared exclusively for guests of the winter hiking trail and requires a parking permit, which is sent free of charge in advance via the Leutasch information office. From the bus stop or the car park, continue along the main road for approx. 150 metres to restaurant Mühle (Burggraben 264), where you can drop off your luggage. The route then continues in a curve to the right past the restaurant Mühle into the long Achweg.
Here the route first runs along the edge of the forest and then through the forest, almost always alongside the water. A beautiful path where you can really feel at one with nature.

You’ll return to civilization in the Leutasch district of Reindlau. Cross the road at the campsite and follow the adjoining path to the end of the district and beyond. Shortly before the next district called 'Lehner', turn left and head towards the main road. After crossing the road, pass the Ahrnerhof and after a few meters, turn right back onto the hiking trail. Follow the path parallel to the cross-country skiing track and watch the skiers as you go. You’ll pass Polis Hütte, a popular spot for winter sports enthusiasts. Continue straight until you reach the main road, where you’ll turn left and follow the sidewalk into Weidach.

As you enter the village, the path turns right just after the bridge and before the first shop (Sport Norz). Follow the Achweg towards the district of Kirchplatzl. Walk straight past the bridge (leading to Kirchplatzl) and continue towards Aue – about 200 meters further, turn left at the intersection (do not cross the wooden bridge on the right). After a short, steep climb, keep left at the fork and follow the signs towards Weidachsee. At the next fork, turn left and after a few minutes of walking, you will reach the lake. The lake, where ice fishing takes place on weekends during the winter, is one of the highlights of the first section. Afterward, head back into Weidach. At the crossroads near Hotel Quellenhof, keep right and follow the road until you reach Hotel Leutascherhof. Turn right here and continue along the road until you reach the 'Weidach Zentrum' bus stop, the endpoint of the first stage at the Leutasch Music Pavilion. The endpoint of the hike is your booked accommodation.

Refreshment Stops Along the Way:
• Polis Hütte

Scenic Highlights and Viewpoints:
• expansive Leutasch Valley along the Leutascher Ache
• Weidachsee with weekend ice fishing opportunities
• Ganghofer Museum (in the Kirchplatzl district)

Optional Extension:
If the weather is good, a detour to the panoramic viewpoint at Katzenkopf (Trail No. 34 from the Seewald district) is highly recommended. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views and local delicacies at the hut Katzenkopfhütte (1,603 m).