The Zillertal valley, stretching south from Jenbach into the heart of the Tyrolean Alps, ranks among Austria's most picturesque hiking destinations. Known for its blend of accessible trails and challenging mountain routes, the region welcomes hikers of all abilities while offering endless opportunities for those seeking more demanding adventures.
What makes the Zillertal particularly special is its combination of natural beauty and authentic alpine culture. Traditional wooden farmhouses dot the valley floor, cable cars whisk visitors to high-altitude starting points, and a network of well-maintained mountain huts provides refreshment and accommodation throughout the region.
The Zillertal Region
The Zillertal encompasses several distinct areas, each with its own character. The main valley runs north-south, with four side valleys branching off to the east, leading deep into the Zillertal Alps Nature Park. These side valleys - Tuxertal, Zemmgrund, Stillupgrund, and Zillergrund - offer some of the region's finest hiking.
Featured Hiking Routes
Schlegeisspeicher Circuit
One of the Zillertal's most rewarding day hikes begins at the Schlegeisspeicher, a turquoise reservoir nestled at 1,782 meters. The circular route around the lake takes approximately three hours and offers continuously changing perspectives of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. The relatively flat terrain makes this accessible to most hikers.
Schlegeisspeicher Details
- Distance: 8 kilometers (circuit)
- Duration: 2.5-3 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Access: Bus from Mayrhofen to dam parking area
Olpererhitte Viewpoint
For those seeking the iconic Zillertal experience, the hike to Olpererhitte is essential. This mountain hut perched at 2,389 meters has become famous for its Instagram-worthy suspension bridge and panoramic views. The ascent from Schlegeisspeicher takes around two hours, with the return offering different perspectives of the reservoir below.
The trail is well-marked and maintained, though the final sections include some steeper passages. The reward at the top - aside from the spectacular views - includes excellent homemade food at the hut terrace.
Berliner Hohenweg
Experienced hikers seeking a multi-day challenge should consider the Berliner Hohenweg, a demanding high-altitude route connecting eight mountain huts over approximately 70 kilometers. This classic traverse through the Zillertal Alps typically takes 6-8 days and requires good fitness, mountain experience, and the ability to navigate alpine terrain.
The route passes through some of the most pristine alpine landscape in Austria, including glacial valleys, rocky ridges, and flower-carpeted meadows. Accommodation at the huts along the way provides welcome rest and sustenance, with the camaraderie of fellow hikers adding to the experience.
Valley Villages
The Zillertal's charming villages offer convenient bases for exploring the region:
- Mayrhofen: The valley's main hub, with excellent transport connections and extensive facilities. The Penken and Ahorn cable cars provide access to high-altitude hiking areas.
- Zell am Ziller: A quieter alternative with traditional atmosphere and good access to the valley's northern trails.
- Ginzling: Perfect for hikers focused on the Schlegeisspeicher area and the Berliner Hohenweg.
When to Visit
The Zillertal offers hiking opportunities from late May through October, though conditions vary significantly by elevation. Valley trails open earliest, while high-altitude routes may retain snow patches well into July. The peak season of July and August brings the warmest weather and fullest huts, while September offers quieter trails and the beginning of autumn colors.
Seasonal Considerations
- Late May - June: Lower valley trails accessible; higher routes may have snow
- July - August: All routes typically open; busiest period; book huts in advance
- September: Excellent hiking weather; autumn colors begin; some huts close late month
- October: Valley hikes still possible; high routes may see early snow
Getting There
The Zillertal is easily accessible from Innsbruck (approximately 45 minutes by car) and Salzburg (approximately 2 hours). The Zillertalbahn, a charming narrow-gauge railway, runs the length of the valley from Jenbach to Mayrhofen, connecting with the main Austrian rail network. Local buses extend the public transport network into the side valleys during the summer months.
Additional Resources
Plan your Zillertal adventure with these helpful resources:
- Zillertal Tourism - Official regional information
- Austrian Alpine Club - Hut information and mountain safety
- Bergfex - Detailed trail maps and conditions
