Hiking Route · Gaistal
Hämmermoosalm
Start: Salzbach car park (P3–P5), Gaistal
4
km
180
m elev ↑
1.5 h
Duration
- Family-friendly
- Dogs allowed
The walk to the Hämmermoosalm is the shortest and simplest way to experience the Gaistal at its finest. Covering just 4 km with 180 metres of elevation gain, the route follows a wide forest track from the Salzbach car park directly to the award-winning hut – a place that received the Gault&Millau title of “Alpine Hut of the Year” in 2024. No long ascent, no alpine equipment, no scrambling – just set off and arrive.
The Hut: Gault&Millau Award Winner
The Hämmermoosalm is no ordinary mountain hut. In 2024 it was recognised by the prestigious food guide Gault&Millau as “Alpine Hut of the Year” – an extraordinary accolade for a mountain hut and proof that regional cuisine at 1,417 m can reach the highest level.
What sets the hut apart: the combination of genuine Tyrolean alpine tradition, carefully sourced local ingredients and a standard of hospitality that makes all the difference. Germknödel, Kaiserschmarrn and homemade pastries are the highlights of the menu.
Route Description
Start at Salzbach car park (P3–P5): Set off from the car park along the car-free Ganghoferweg into the valley. The path is wide, well marked and follows pleasantly flat terrain through the Gaistal.
First kilometres: After about 1 km you pass the Gaistalbachbach – a wonderful spot to pause. The rock faces of the Wettersteingebirge rise up on both sides; the valley narrows slightly, emphasising the wildness of the landscape.
Turn-off to the Hämmermoosalm (approx. 45 min.): At a marked signpost, turn left – cross a small bridge and then head gently uphill across the alpine slope. After about 500 m of ascent the Hämmermoosalm appears on a sunny plateau. Walking time from the car park: approx. 1.5 hours.
Return: Same route back – or as an extension: continue to the Gaistalalm and Tillfußalm along the Ganghoferweg (then approx. 6–8 km in total).
Why This Tour?
- Easiest Gaistal walk: Ideal for those who are not fit enough for long ascents
- Award-winning hut: The destination fully justifies the ascent
- Pushchairs: Possible on the main path right up to just before the hut
- Dogs welcome: Please keep on lead outside the hut grounds (grazing animals)
Who Is This Tour For?
| Group | Suitable? |
|---|---|
| Families with young children | Yes (pushchairs possible) |
| Senior walkers | Yes (flat path, short distance) |
| Beginner hikers | Ideal as a first Gaistal outing |
| Dog owners | Yes |
| Active visitors | As a warm-up or recovery day |
Combination Options
The Hämmermoosalm tour is the perfect gateway experience before more demanding routes:
- Ganghoferweg circular tour: The Hämmermoosalm is the first stop on the grand circular tour (10 km)
- Hochalmen-Rundwanderung: Those who know the Hämmermoosalm and want more should try this more challenging circuit next
- Tillfußalm extension: After the Hämmermoosalm, continue along the Ganghoferweg to the Tillfußalm (approx. 30 min.)
Tips for the Tour
- Closing day: The hut is closed on Mondays – plan the tour on another day
- Peak season: On fine summer weekends the hut is busy – arrive early
- Germknödel: The culinary highlight of the hut – not to be missed
- Parking: P3–P5 at the Salzbach (toll road, daily fee)
The Hämmermoosalm walk is the easiest route into the Gaistal – and leads directly to the best hut in the valley.
Route map
Frequently asked questions about Hämmermoosalm
- How difficult is Hämmermoosalm?
- Hämmermoosalm is rated Easy. The route is 4 km long. Elevation gain: 180 m.
- How long does Hämmermoosalm take?
- The tour takes approximately 1.5 h.
- Are dogs allowed on the Hämmermoosalm route?
- Yes, dogs are welcome on this route.
- Is Hämmermoosalm family-friendly?
- Yes, this route is particularly suitable for families with children.
Questions about the route?
The AI guide knows all the details about this tour