Hike to the Rotmoosalm

The hike to the Rotmoosalm leads into one of the quietest corners of the Gaistal – off the most-frequented routes, into an alpine landscape shaped by dwarf pines, mountain meadows and direct views of the Wetterstein walls. The Rotmoosalm at 1,580 m is an insider tip among those who know the Gaistal well: little bustle, good food, affordable accommodation. Those who walk here find Tyrol as it once was.

Why the Rotmoosalm?

In a valley with well-known and popular huts, the Rotmoosalm is the quiet alternative. While the Hämmermoosalm or the Gaistalalm are well visited on fine summer days, the Rotmoos stays peaceful. The route there does not follow the main path, but rather a somewhat narrower trail that keeps the crowds away.

The sense of reward upon arrival is correspondingly greater: you have earned your way there, you arrive in a solitary alpine landscape and sit somewhere where time moves more slowly.

Route Description

Start at Stupfer car park (P2): From the car park, first head along the main trail towards the Wangalm. After about 45 minutes a marked junction appears on the left – this leads into the Rotmoos and to the hut.

Junction towards the Rotmoos (approx. 45 min.): From the main trail, branch off onto a narrower path that initially passes through dwarf pine terrain. The ground is somewhat rougher than the main routes – sturdy footwear is important. After the junction you leave the main flow of walkers almost entirely.

Through the Rotmoos (approx. 45 min.): The path leads through the characteristic Rotmoos landscape – an open high-alpine hollow with mountain meadows, scattered dwarf pines and boulders. The Wetterstein walls rise up in the background. At the far end of the moor the Rotmoosalm comes into view.

Arrival at the Rotmoosalm (1,580 m): The hut sits on a slightly elevated spot at the edge of the moor – with a direct view of the Wetterstein walls. The terrace invites you to rest.

Return: Same route back to the car park (approx. 2 hrs.).

Alternative Return: Via the Wangalm

Those with the fitness for an extension: a less well-marked path leads from the Rotmoosalm across to the Wangalm (1,750 m) – approx. 45–60 minutes. From the Wangalm, return on the main trail to Stupfer car park. This variant is only recommended for walkers with good navigational instincts (bring a GPS track).

Overnight Stay

The Rotmoosalm offers one of the most affordable places to sleep in the Gaistal: 14 dormitory places for €40 per person including breakfast. Those who stay overnight have the hut to themselves once the day visitors leave – a starlit sky included. Advance booking: +43 676 4516900.

An overnight stay at the Rotmoosalm followed by an early morning walk (before the day visitors arrive) is one of the finest Gaistal experiences.

Requirements

• Moderate fitness: 480 m over 8.5 km is very manageable
• Sturdy footwear: The path into the Rotmoos is somewhat rougher than the main trails
• Map or GPS: Somewhat less well marked in the upper section
• Dogs: Welcome, but keep on lead in grazing areas

Tips for the Tour

• Early start: The Rotmoos is particularly atmospheric in the evening light – arrive early for lunch on the terrace and a relaxed return journey
• Combined with an overnight stay: The ideal Rotmoosalm experience – for those wanting an early morning walk the next day
• Weather: The Rotmoos is more sheltered from the wind than the exposed high-alpine locations – but still plan a descent if weather is building
• Silence: This place lives from its quietness – leave the headphones at home

The hike to the Rotmoosalm is the insider tip for all those who want to experience the Gaistal without mass tourism.