Going High
Hiking at Alpine heights is an almost incomparable pleasure: The light is different and the air is thinner. It’s not uncommon to stumble across left-over snow banks while you hear a marmot’s whistle somewhere amongst the trees—and to wonder how long both have been up here. And while searching for gentian and cyclamen, the beautiful flowers that grow at these altitudes, you leave the everyday in the valley below—and forget you were ever even apart of it.
Thankfully, enjoying these heights is also way easier today than in times gone by. You can choose to take the cable car to the summit and hike back down. Or hike to the summit and take the cable car back down. Or utilize the same method in both directions. However you travel, it only matters that you enjoy it, and that you follow one simple rule: Check the weather forecast before you head up so high. And be prepared for everything—even if the weather looks good from your starting point. At higher altitudes, it’s generally a few degrees colder and it can all change at the blink of an eye.
To get you experiencing nothing but highs at these lofty altitudes, we’ve already prepared some adventures. All you need to do is pick out your favorite: Your chosen Collection will provide you with all the information you need, such as the route and how to get there, as well as plenty of useful tips.
To get you experiencing nothing but highs at these lofty altitudes, we’ve already prepared some adventures.Your adventure in lofty heights
Choose from our ready-to-go Collections with handpicked routes and lots of handy information, created by passionate people like you.
Hiking Collection by
Hiking Collection by
Hiking Collection by
Hiking Collection by
Hiking Collection by
Hiking Collection by
Hiking Collection by
Hiking Collection by
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Mountain Biking Collection by
Hiking Collection by
Hiking Collection by
The right season
The best time to get lost in the mountains depends on where they are. It makes sense, to build your routine around the opening times of the Alpine huts. Depending on the altitude, these are often only open for a few months each year due to the snow. Naturally, it’s always a little cooler at the beginning and end of the season, and while this might be a reason not to go for some, the reduced crowds make it a dream for others. In this regard, it depends on how important solitude and warm temperatures are to you. If your preferred mountain range is situated in a warmer climate, the season is automatically extended. As ever, for a good idea on the best times to go, check with your accommodation.
Safety In The Mountains
Weather
Just like a hearty breakfast, checking the weather forecast is an important part of your daily mountain morning routine. At high altitudes, you may experience heat, rain, high winds and even snow — all in the same day. When packing, check the weather and take equipment for every possible outcome.
Dangers
Rough terrain, narrow and steep paths, falling rocks – all are risks when traversing the mountains and along the coast. Thorough preparation, suitable equipment and an honest evaluation of your own skills are key to staying safe. If you don’t have any experience in certain environments, it's best to bring someone who does.
Respect
Whether you are on a popular trail or off the beaten path, make sure to show respect toward other people and the environment. Beware of other people around – below steep slopes there are often other trails, so don't kick down any rocks. Always leave a place as you found it and show respect for your companions, people you meet and the environment.
Emergency Numbers
Research and keeo the phone number of the local mountain rescue on hand. Make sure you always have some battery left on your mobile device and be cognisant of where you are at all times so you can accurately communicate your location in case of an emergency.
- Call 999 and ask to be put through to mountain rescue in case of an emergency. Mountain rescue Germany: 112
- Mountain rescue Austria: 140
- Mountain rescue Italy: 118
What to take
- A rain/insulated jacket for breaks
- Sunscreen/a hat to keep the sun off your head
- One litre of water
- A packed lunch or at least one emergency cereal bar
- A knife
- Your phone (with your route downloaded on komoot ahead of time)
- A blister plaster (just in case)
- A first aid kit with patches, tick forceps and some travel medication