The best running trails in the High Tauern

The High Tauern National Park offers a wide variety of terrain for runners. You'll find everything from gentler paths along valley floors, often following rivers like the Isel, to more challenging high-altitude trails. The landscape features montane forests, sub-alpine regions, expansive alpine meadows, and glacial valleys. Some routes may have mostly paved surfaces, while others require good to very good fitness and sure-footedness on natural trails.

Yes, the High Tauern offers several easy running routes. Out of over 130 routes available, 9 are specifically categorized as easy. These routes typically stick to lower elevations and valley paths, providing a pleasant experience without significant climbs. For example, routes around Matrei in Osttirol often follow the Isel river, offering scenic and relatively flat terrain.

For experienced runners seeking a challenge, the High Tauern has plenty to offer, with 68 routes categorized as difficult. These trails often ascend into higher alpine terrain, providing significant elevation gains and stunning mountain vistas. An example is the Kalser Tauernhaus loop from Großdorf, which is a difficult 9.3-mile (14.9 km) path with substantial climbing. Another demanding option is the Glorerhütte loop from Kals am Großglockner, a 21.8 km route with over 1300 meters of elevation gain.

Yes, many of the running routes in the High Tauern are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Bridge over the Isel – Nature Hotel Outside loop from Matrei in Osttirol, the Schotterfluren Kalser Bach loop from Kals am Großglockner, and the Heiligenblut loop from Heiligenblut. These circular paths are convenient for exploration and return to your starting point.

Absolutely! The High Tauern National Park is rich in natural beauty. You can expect to see magnificent waterfalls, serene mountain lakes, and majestic peaks. The Krimml Waterfalls are a prominent attraction, and trails often follow rivers and streams. Highlights you might encounter include the Edelweissspitze Summit, Großglockner summit (Austria's highest peak), and tranquil spots like Grünsee. The region also features picturesque glacial valleys and expansive alpine meadows.

The running routes in the High Tauern are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 49 reviews. More than 1800 runners have used komoot to explore the varied terrain. Reviewers often praise the stunning and varied alpine scenery, the abundance of water features like rivers and waterfalls, and the well-developed network of trails that cater to different ability levels.

The best season for running in the High Tauern is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the trails are typically free of snow, and the weather is more favorable. The region's diverse eco-zones, from montane forests to sub-alpine meadows, are at their most vibrant. High-altitude areas, including nival zones, mean that some trails may remain snow-covered well into summer, so checking local conditions is always recommended.

Yes, many of the easier and moderate routes in the High Tauern are suitable for families, especially those that stick to the valley floors or well-maintained paths. These routes often offer gentler gradients and beautiful scenery without being overly strenuous. Look for routes described as 'easy' or 'moderate' that follow rivers or traverse alpine meadows, which provide a pleasant experience for all ages.

While the High Tauern National Park is a natural area, specific regulations regarding dogs on trails can vary. Generally, dogs are permitted on many trails, but they must be kept on a leash, especially in protected areas, near livestock, or in wildlife habitats. It's always advisable to check local signage or park regulations for the specific trail you plan to run to ensure it's dog-friendly.

Yes, the High Tauern offers several longer running routes for those looking for endurance challenges. Many of the difficult-rated trails extend over significant distances and elevation. For example, the View of Jagdhausalm – Jagdhausalm Mountain Settlement loop from Patsch is an 18.5 km (11.5 miles) route, and the Bridge over the Isel – Matrei in East Tyrol loop from Matrei in Osttirol covers 15.2 km (9.4 miles). These routes provide extensive exploration of the alpine landscape.

Access to running routes in the High Tauern varies. Many valleys, such as Krimml Achental, Obersulzbachtal, and Wildgerlostal, serve as excellent starting points and are often accessible by car, with designated parking areas. Roads like the Grossglockner High Alpine Road also provide access to various trails. Public transport options, such as local buses, connect some villages and trailheads, but it's recommended to check specific schedules and routes in advance, especially for more remote areas. For general information about the National Park, you can visit nationalpark.at.