Cycling Fun & Mountain Bike Adventure in Tyrol

The mountain bike adventure in the Gaistal covering 22 km and 800 metres of elevation is one of the most demanding and rewarding bike tours in the entire Zugspitze region. The tour leads from the Gaistal valley floor through the entire valley upwards to the Hochfeldernalm at 1,640 m – with a fantastic descent and the full Gaistal panorama as a constant companion. For experienced mountain bikers and e-bikers, this is one of the finest days the Gaistal has to offer.

Why This Tour?

The Gaistal offers a unique combination for cyclists: wide, well-maintained forest tracks, zero car traffic (motorised vehicles are prohibited), several alpine huts as refreshment stops and 800 metres of elevation to earn on the way up to the Hochfeldernalm. The descent back through the valley is the crowning finale.

This tour is not technical enduro terrain – it is a physically demanding forest and alpine track tour for riders with endurance who put the nature experience first.

Route Description

Start at Stupfer car park (P2) (1,080 m): From the car park, set off at a gentle pace along the Ganghoferweg into the valley. The first kilometres are almost flat – a good warm-up before the demanding sections that follow.

Hämmermoosalm turn-off (approx. 45 min.): The first notable junction leads to the Hämmermoosalm (1,417 m). Those with energy to spare for a detour can turn off here and fuel up at the Gault&Millau award-winning hut. Then back to the main route.

Upper Gaistal: Beyond the Hämmermoosalm, the route begins climbing progressively. The valley narrows, the Wetterstein walls draw closer, the alpine landscape becomes wilder. This is the most beautiful section of the entire tour.

Gaistalalm and Tillfußalm (approx. 1.5 hrs.): Both huts lie on the route – ideal for additional stops or to top up water supplies.

Steep climb to the Hochfeldernalm (approx. 1.5 hrs.): In the rear section of the Gaistal the route steepens – this is where you find out whether your fitness is up to it. Considerably easier on an e-bike, but very much achievable under muscle power too. The terrain becomes more alpine, the views of the Zugspitze massif more impressive.

Hochfeldernalm (1,640 m): The destination after approx. 3.5 hours of climbing. The Hochfeldernalm with its sun terrace and views of the Zugspitze is the well-earned reward. Brettljause, hot soup, a cold drink – and then savour the view.

Descent into the Gaistal (approx. 1.5 hrs.): The return downhill is the fun part of the tour. On the wide, well-maintained forest track, 800 metres of descent lead back to the car park – fast, but controllable. The descent through the Gaistal with the mountain scenery as a backdrop is unforgettable.

E-Bike Notes

With a powerful e-bike this tour becomes considerably more manageable – the 800 m of elevation is perfectly achievable with motor assistance. Important: battery management. Don’t use too much power on the climb up so there is enough energy left for the final steep section to the Hochfeldernalm. Bring a spare battery or ask at the Hochfeldernalm about charging options.

Refreshment Stops

Requirements

• Fitness: 800 m elevation over 11 km of climbing – for experienced cyclists and e-bikers
• Mountain bike or e-bike: City bikes are not suitable (off-road sections, unsurfaced stretches)
• Helmet: Compulsory
• Water: 2+ litres; refill options at the huts
• Tools: Puncture repair kit, pump, multi-tool

Tips for the Tour

• Early start: At the car park by 8 a.m. at the latest – the ascent is more pleasant in the cool of the morning in summer
• Weather: Risk of afternoon thunderstorms – aim to be at the Hochfeldernalm by 2 p.m.
• E-bike battery: Check charge before setting off; a spare battery is recommended
• Dogs: Only if your dog is fit enough for 22 km and 800 m of elevation
• Best time: June and September – less heat and lower risk of thunderstorms than in midsummer

The mountain bike adventure in the Gaistal is, for experienced riders, one of the finest tours in Tyrol – with everything the heart desires: alpine huts, panoramic views, forest tracks and a superb descent.