September and October in the Gaistal: the tourists have gone, the air is crystal clear, and the colours simply explode. If you come now, you’ll practically have the valley to yourself.
Why autumn in the Gaistal is something special
- Light: Deep, golden autumn light turns every photograph into a painting
- Quiet: The main season is over – on weekdays you’ll barely meet another hiker
- Colours: Larch trees turn a brilliant gold, the alpine meadows glow amber
- Temperatures: 8–14 °C – perfect for hiking without breaking a sweat
- Almabtrieb: Late September / early October sees many traditional cattle-drive festivals
Which huts are still open in October?
| Hut | Open until |
|---|---|
| Poli’s Hütte | year-round |
| Gaistalalm | end of October |
| Tillfußalm | end of October |
| Katzenkopfhütte | October |
| Hochfeldernalm | end of October |
| Rotmoosalm | mid-October |
| Seebenalm | mid-October |
From mid-October most of the high-altitude huts close. For absolute certainty: check the Current Status page.
The best autumn hikes in the Gaistal
Ganghoferweg – the valley in autumn glory
The Ganghoferweg (10 km, easy) is especially beautiful in autumn: the larch trees at the valley’s edge glow golden, the stream runs higher than in summer, and all three huts are still open. Perfect for beginners and families.
High Alms Circular Hike – last chance
The High Alms Circular Hike should ideally be done before the end of September – after that, the Wettersteinhütte and Wangalm close. One final visit in golden September is nothing short of magical.
Seebensee – without the crowds
The Seebensee in October: turquoise water, no tourist masses, perfect reflections in the still water. The Seebenalm closes in mid-October – go before then while you still can.
Equipment for autumn
- Layers: Cold in the morning (5–8 °C), pleasant at midday, cooler again in the afternoon
- Waterproof jacket: Autumn brings more rainfall – always pack one
- Poles: Wet leaves on the path can be slippery
- Head torch: Shorter days – it can get dark on the way back
The Gaistal in autumn is a hidden gem that deserves to be better known. All routes and huts in the Overview.