Wangalm

The Wangalm at 1,750 m stands at the foot of the mighty Gehrenspitze (2,166 m) and is one of the most impressive alm destinations in the entire Gaistal. Those who arrive here are rewarded with one of the finest panoramas the valley has to offer: wide alpine meadows, the view back down into the Gaistal and the imposing Wetterstein chain right in front of you. The Wangalm is not an easy destination – but that is precisely what makes the ascent so worthwhile.

Location and Character

At 1,750 m the Wangalm is already well above the treeline of the lower valley sections. The air is cleaner, the views wider, the silence more complete. The small, cosy alm building with its rustic wooden terrace provides exactly the right setting for a well-earned rest after the climb.

The alm is a central hub on the famous high-alm circular hike – those doing this tour will inevitably stop here. But as a standalone destination the ascent is equally worthwhile: the view of the Zugspitze, the Karwendel and the Inn Valley to the south is simply breathtaking.

Dogs are expressly welcome at the Wangalm – not a matter of course at alms at this altitude. Please keep on a lead because of the grazing animals.

Food and Alm Atmosphere

The offering is modest and honest: Brettljause with Tyrolean cheese and bacon, fresh bread, hot drinks and a cold beer after the ascent. No extensive menu, but everything homemade and served with heart. The terrace is the best spot in the Gaistal to let the mountain world soak in at leisure.

The short opening hours (10:00–16:00) reflect the alpine character of the alm – hut life here is still lived in the traditional way. Start early, arrive on time.

Overnight Stays

The Wangalm offers 2–4-bed rooms as well as dormitory places for a limited number of guests. This is ideal for all those who want to split the high-alm circuit over two days or set out early from here to the Wettersteinhütte. Advance booking is mandatory: +43 664 9196073.

An overnight stay at the Wangalm means: sunset behind the Gehrenspitze, a star-filled sky free of light pollution, sunrise looking at the Zugspitze – pure alpinism.

Season and Opening Hours

Season	Early July – mid-September
Opening hours	Daily 10:00–16:00
Phone	+43 664 9196073
Dogs	Welcome (on lead)
Overnight stays	Rooms + dormitory (advance booking required)

Getting There

The ascent to the Wangalm starts at the Stupfer car park (P2) in the Gaistal. From there follow the marked trail towards the Wangalm through the Wangalmwald – a shaded, pleasant climb for the first 400 m altitude gain. In the upper section the forest thins out, the views open up and the alm suddenly appears in the distance. Walking time from the car park: approx. 1.5–2 hours (650 m altitude gain).

The route is well marked, but alpine sure-footedness is recommended because of the steepness in the upper section. No climbing passages, but solid hiking boots are essential.

Combination Options

The Wangalm is the centrepiece of the high-alm circular hike (12.5 km, 650 m) – the most famous tour in the Gaistal. From the alm the route continues:

• Upwards to the Wettersteinhütte (1,930 m) – a further 45 min., ideal next stop
• On to the Gehrenspitze (2,166 m) – demanding summit ascent, +400 m altitude gain, sure-footedness required
• Descent to the Hämmermoosalm – on the high-alm circuit back into the valley

Tips for Your Visit

• Start early: Factor in the short opening hours (10:00–16:00) – aim to be at the car park by 09:00 at the latest
• Note the season: Open July to mid-September only – the alm is unstaffed outside this period
• Check the weather: The Wangalm sits in an exposed position; descend promptly if thunderstorms are building
• Equipment: Sturdy footwear, rain jacket, sun protection – even if it is fine in the valley

For many Gaistal visitors the Wangalm is the absolute highlight: a place where the Alps show what they are truly capable of.