The Waalweg is the narrow path or trail that runs directly alongside the Waal canal. It was once used by the so-called "Waaler" (the water managers) to monitor, clean, and maintain the canal. They had to ensure that the water flowed unhindered and that all users were supplied evenly. Waalweg trails are very popular with hikers because they are usually almost flat or have only a very slight gradient (the gradient is just steep enough to allow the water to flow, but not so fast that the canal erodes).

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Kirsten 🌺

October 23, 2025

Hiking

A Waalweg (Waal Trail) is a hiking or walking path that runs along a so-called "Waal" (watercourse). A Waal is an artificially created, open irrigation channel or ditch. These canals were often constructed centuries ago in South Tyrol. Their primary function was to divert water from higher-lying streams, rivers, or lakes and convey it, often over long distances, to lower-lying fields, meadows, and orchards to ensure the survival of agriculture.

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Best routes to Waal Trail (Sentiero della Roggia)

4.5

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166

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1. Kehlburg Castle Ruins – View of Amaten loop from Gais

10.4km

03:20

430m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

4.7

(39)

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2. Waalweg Trail Shelter – Wooden Shelter in the Forest loop from Gais

5.21km

01:31

130m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

4.5

(31)

142

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3. View of Amaten – Kehlburg Castle Ruins loop from Kehlburg

10.9km

03:30

470m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Details

Informations

Elevation 970 m

Weather

Friday 20 February

4°C

-6°C

96 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 1.0 km/h

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Location: Gais, South Tyrol, Italy

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Waal Trail (Sentiero della Roggia)

1. Kehlburg Castle Ruins – View of Amaten loop from Gais

2. Waalweg Trail Shelter – Wooden Shelter in the Forest loop from Gais

3. View of Amaten – Kehlburg Castle Ruins loop from Kehlburg

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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