Hike to the Wangalm

The hike to the Wangalm is one of the most rewarding half-day tours in the Gaistal – and for many visitors the first real mountain hike that reveals the valley in its full alpine dimension. Covering 10 km with 650 metres of elevation, the route leads from the valley floor up to the Wangalm at 1,750 m – one of the finest viewpoints in the entire Gaistal, at the foot of the imposing Gehrenspitze.

The Wangalm: A Panoramic Destination

The Wangalm at 1,750 m sits on an alpine plateau that opens southward over the Gaistal. From here you have one of the most complete panoramic views in the valley: the Zugspitze to the north, the Karwendel to the east, the Inn valley to the south and the Wetterstein range all around. Those who bring binoculars can see as far as the Stubai Alps on clear days.

The hut is a central point on the Hochalmen-Rundwanderung – those who don’t want to do the full circuit have in the direct Wangalm tour a shorter but almost equally impressive alternative.

Route Description

Start at Stupfer car park (P2): From the car park at approx. 1,080 m, the marked hiking trail towards the Wangalm begins. It first leads flat through the valley floor before the actual ascent starts.

Entering the Wangalmwald (approx. 30 min.): After the flat opening stretch, the path climbs into the Wangalmwald – a shady, pleasantly cool ascent through spruce and dwarf pine forest. The woodland provides shelter on hot summer days and is scenically very beautiful.

Middle section of the ascent (approx. 1 hr.): In the middle section the path steepens. Gaps in the trees open up here and there, giving first glimpses down into the Gaistal. The views improve with every metre gained.

Tree line and upper alpine terrain (approx. 45 min.): Just before the Wangalm you leave the forest and enter open alpine pasture. From here the Wangalm comes into view – and the Zugspitze massif reveals itself for the first time in its full breadth. The final metres pass almost by themselves, there is so much to look at.

Wangalm (1,750 m): Arrival after approx. 1.5–2 hours. The small alpine hut with terrace offers Brettljausen, drinks and one of the finest places to sit in the Gaistal. Dogs are warmly welcome.

Return: Same route back – approx. 1.5 hours.

Extensions from the Wangalm

The Wangalm is an ideal starting point for extensions:

• Wettersteinhütte (1,930 m): A further 45 min. uphill – you then find yourself on the Hochalmen-Rundwanderung
• Gehrenspitze (2,166 m): Demanding summit ascent from the Wangalm, approx. 2.5 hrs., 700 m elevation, experienced walkers only
• Hochalmen-Rundwanderung: The Wangalm is the centrepiece of this grand circuit – once you’ve been here, you’ll want to do the whole tour

Overnight Stay

The Wangalm offers rooms and dormitory places for overnight guests. This makes it an ideal base camp for a multi-day tour in the upper Gaistal or a launch point for an early Gehrenspitze ascent the following morning. Advance booking: +43 664 9196073.

Requirements

• Moderate fitness: 650 m over 5 km of ascent
• Sturdy hiking footwear
• Sufficient water (no water sources on the upper section)
• Dogs must have the fitness for 650 m of elevation

Tips for the Tour

• Go in the morning: The Wangalm falls into shadow from the surrounding peaks around midday – the finest time on the terrace is the morning
• Season: Open only from July to mid-September – outside this period the hut may be unstaffed
• Weather: Exposed position at 1,750 m – descend immediately if a thunderstorm is building
• Binoculars: Absolutely worthwhile for the panoramic views and wildlife spotting (chamois, marmots)

The hike to the Wangalm is for all those who want to see the Gaistal from above – without the full exertion of the Hochalmen-Rundwanderung.