Hiking, Biking & Golden Summits
Golden larch forests, crisp mountain air and fewer people on the walking and bike trails make autumn one of the most beautiful times of year for a holiday in Paznaun. Those who make the most of the weeks between late summer and winter will find ideal conditions for hiking and biking – complemented by the varied cultural and sporting events in the Golden Summits programme.
Autumn highlights in the Paznaun at a glance
- pleasant temperatures and crisp mountain air
- golden larch forests
- hiking and biking tours to suit every ability
- a wide variety of cultural and sporting events as part of the Golden Summits
- a varied activities programme
- mountain railways operating until October
Why an autumn holiday in the Paznaun is well worth it
Between late summer and the start of the winter season, the Paznaun region is at its most beautiful. Stable weather, pleasant temperatures and a peaceful atmosphere on the trails and in the huts make autumn the ideal time for a holiday. The mountain meadows turn golden and, on clear days, the panoramic views of the Silvretta and Verwall peaks are particularly impressive.
As the mountain cable cars remain in operation until October, you also save on elevation gain and time, and can even set off on your hike in the afternoon.
Tip: As part of the Golden Summits event series, the Paznaun-Ischgl region brings together precisely these highlights of the golden season.
The Top highlights of the Golden Summits include:
- Paznaun Market Day: regional specialities, ideal for connoisseurs
- E-Bike World Championships for Everyone: competitive atmosphere, ideal for amateur sports enthusiasts
- Silvretta Ferwall March: a wide variety of walking trails, ideal for nature lovers
- Schlagernacht: atmospheric live music, ideal for culture lovers
“In autumn, I love to set off on my e-bike and walk the last bit of the route. At this time of year, the larch trees are already glowing orange, whilst the Swiss stone pines are still green – you only get this contrast and the special play of light in the Paznaun in autumn.”
Autumn walking: routes for all ability levels
Paznaun offers hiking trails for every level of ability – from leisurely alpine pasture walks to challenging mountain hut tours.
Hike to the Friedrichshafener Hütte
This moderately difficult hike to the Friedrichshafener Hütte in the Verwall mountains starts in Ischgl or Galtür and climbs around 1,000 metres to the hut at 2,144 metres above sea level. From there, you can continue to the Hohe Köpfe and enjoy views of the surrounding Verwall peaks.
For biking enthusiasts: Starting from the bike depot makes the ascent shorter and less strenuous.
Hike to the Durrichalpe in Kappl
This moderately difficult hiking route climbs around 650 metres from Kappl to the Durrichalpe. Comfortable benches await at the viewpoint, offering the perfect place to catch your breath and admire the evergreen stone pines, colourful larches and surrounding wooden huts.
Good to know: The alpine pasture is not staffed, so be sure to pack sufficient food and drinks.
Hike to the Menta Alm in Galtür
The hiking trail to the Menta Alm is ideal for families. This easy route follows a pram-friendly path and climbs around 250 metres to its destination. It is perfect for leisurely holiday outings, even on overcast or misty autumn days.
Biking tours in Ischgl: classic routes or e-bike & hike
Autumn in Paznaun is also an excellent time to explore by mountain bike or e-bike. Starting at a higher altitude makes the approach easier, while the e-bike & hike tours are ideal for anyone wishing to combine biking with hiking.
E-bike tour to the Heilbronner Hütte
Starting in Galtür, this approximately 30-kilometre e-bike tour climbs almost 1,000 metres along the old Zeinisjoch road to Lake Kops, before continuing through the Verbellatal valley to the Heilbronner Hütte. The Alpengasthof Zeinisjoch and Alpe Verbella offer places to stop for refreshments.
E-bike tour to the Ascher Hütte
The Ascher Hütte in the Samnaun mountains lies at 2,256 metres above sea level and is easily accessible by e-bike. There is even an e-bike charging station at the hut. The hut is part of the Culinary Way of St James and serves refreshments accompanied by views of the Verwall mountains.
E-bike & hike tour to Lake Berglisee
This combination of biking and hiking leads to Lake Berglisee at around 2,123 metres above sea level. After the ascent by e-bike, the final section takes another 30 to 45 minutes on foot.
A special feature in autumn: The lake is surrounded by colourful larch forests. On a cool autumn morning, the first thin layer of ice may already have formed on the water.
Well prepared: kit and safety in autumn
As the seasons change, so does the mountain experience: the days are getting shorter, temperatures fluctuate more, and paths can become slippery after rain or the first cold snap.
Recommended equipment:
- ankle-high hiking boots
- hiking poles
- snow spikes for higher altitudes
- an extra jacket, hat and gloves
- a first-aid kit including a survival blanket
- sufficient water and provisions
Important: Plan your hike so that you’re back before dark.
Frequently asked questions about autumn in Paznaun
What makes autumn in the Paznaun such a great time to visit?
Mild temperatures, golden larch forests and significantly fewer crowds make autumn one of the most beautiful times to visit the Paznaun. Added to this are numerous cultural and sporting events as part of the Golden Summits.
Which places in the Paznaun are suitable for hiking?
The whole of the Paznaun is ideal for hiking. Galtür, Ischgl, Kappl and See each have their own networks of trails, ranging from easy valley walks to high-mountain hikes above 2,000 metres above sea level.
Is it possible to go hiking in the Paznaun with children?
Yes. The walk to the Menta Alm in Galtür, for example, follows a wide path suitable for pushchairs and is also suitable for younger children. The route to the Durrichalpe in Kappl is also suitable for families with children aged eight and above.
Can I hire an e-bike in Paznaun?
Yes, there are several hire stations for mountain bikes and e-bikes in Paznaun. Some mountain huts also have an e-bike charging station available.
Until when are the mountain huts and cable cars open in autumn?
Opening times vary depending on the mountain hut and cable car. It’s therefore worth checking the current opening and operating times before you travel.
