Steinernes Hüttl – Circular Walk

The Steinernes Hüttl circular walk is the most demanding single-day tour in the lower Gaistal – and at the same time one of the most impressive. Covering 18.2 km with 1,000 metres of elevation, the circuit traverses the entire Gaistal, crosses the Mitterjöchl at 2,051 m and reaches the Steinernes Hüttl at 1,926 m. The rewards: spectacular panoramic views over the Wettersteingebirge, frequent sightings of marmots and chamois, and the feeling of having truly understood the Gaistal from above.

Highlights

• Mitterjöchl (2,051 m): The high point of the tour – panoramic views of the Zugspitze, Karwendel and the entire Gaistal
• Steinernes Hüttl (1,926 m): A mystical rest spot with an ancient history; in summer often alive with marmots
• Wildlife: Marmots and chamois are almost guaranteed to be seen on the upper section
• Triple-hut route: On the outward and return journey you pass the Gaistalalm, Tillfußalm and Hämmermoosalm

Route Description

Start at Salzbach car park: From the car park, set off along the Ganghoferweg into the valley – flat and pleasant. After about 2 km there are fine views into the valley and the first huts come into sight.

Gaistalalm and Tillfußalm (approx. 45–60 min.): The first two hut stops lie on the outward route. Depending on fitness and plans: a short rest or continue straight on.

Ascent to the Mitterjöchl (approx. 2 hrs.): After the Tillfußalm the actual ascent begins – first through alpine meadow terrain, then over scree and rocky ground. The terrain becomes progressively rockier and more expansive. On the Mitterjöchl (2,051 m) a 360-degree panorama opens up: the Zugspitze to the north, the Inn valley to the south, the Karwendel to the east. Take a moment to stop and enjoy the view.

Mitterjöchl to Steinernes Hüttl (approx. 30 min.): From the pass, continue along the ridge towards the Steinernes Hüttl (1,926 m) – an old, unstaffed shelter on an exposed rocky ridge. Marmots are almost always whistling here, chamois frequently show themselves on the rocky slopes below. This section is the wildest and most solitary of the entire tour.

Descent (approx. 2.5 hrs.): From the Steinernes Hüttl, descend via the marked trail back towards the Tillfußalm or directly to the Gaistalalm. The descent is long but well marked.

Hämmermoosalm as a finale: Those with energy to spare can make a final stop at the Hämmermoosalm on the way back – a well-deserved Kaiserschmarrn after 18 km.

Marmots and Chamois

The Steinernes Hüttl area is one of the best spots in the Gaistal for wildlife watching. Marmots (Alpine marmot, Marmota marmota) inhabit the scree slopes and alpine hillsides in large numbers – those who walk quietly and keep their eyes open will spot them almost every time. Their characteristic whistle gives away their location from a distance.

Chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra) like to frequent the rocky slopes of the Mitterjöchl. With a small pair of binoculars or a telephoto lens they can be observed well.

Requirements

The tour is designed for experienced walkers: 1,000 m, 18 km, rocky terrain in the upper section. No scrambling sections, but solid sure-footedness is important.

Equipment: Mountain boots (not trail shoes), poles recommended, waterproofs, warm layer, 2+ litres of water (no water source in the upper section), food for the whole day.

Tips for the Tour

• Very early start: 5–6 a.m. in the morning – to be on the Mitterjöchl before possible thunderclouds build (typically from 2 p.m. onwards)
• Weather: Only attempt this tour in stable weather; thunderstorms on the Mitterjöchl are dangerous
• Dogs: Permitted, but your dog must be fit enough for 18 km and 1,000 m of elevation
• Best time: July and August for maximum marmot sightings

The Steinernes Hüttl circuit is the tour for all those who want to experience the Gaistal at its most challenging.