Kitzbühel Alps

And anyone who has been here once knows why, because the mountain range in the Eastern Alps, which is located in both Tyrol and Salzburg, knows exactly how to cast its spell. In the immediate vicinity, the Zillertal Alps, the Tux Alps, the Rofan Mountains, the Venediger Group, the Glockner Group, the Kaiser Mountains and several others rise up. So, perfect conditions for conquering multiple peaks.

The race for the highest mountain is won by the Kreuzjoch with its 2,558 meters. Conveniently, the Rosenalmbahn takes part of the ascent for you. Get on and enjoy the view of the Zillertal Alps. Once you arrive at the mountain station, take the walking path to the Gründlalm, continue to the Kreuzjochhütte, and hike in switchbacks over the Törljoch to the Kreuzjoch. This is followed by an easy ridge walk, and finally you have reached the summit.

The Kreuzjoch is also part of the largest ski area in the Zillertal - the Zillertal Arena, which boasts 52 lifts and more than 140 kilometers of slopes. This includes the ski areas of Zell am Ziller, Gerlos, Königsleiten/Wald, and Hochkrimml/Gerlosplatte.

Right next to it is the Torhelm (2,494 meters), which is also one of the largest mountains in the region. Here, ski tourers can descend directly into the valley until the end of May. During the summer months, the Torhelm can be reached via hiking trails from the Wilden Krimml or from the Langen Grund.

For example, start at the Tiefentalalm (1,441 meters), which is considered the oldest alpine pasture in the Kitzbühel Alps with its 500 years. Initially, the ascent runs along a farm track to the Oberkaralm. Via a mountain path, it passes the Öfeleralm and continues over rocky scree to the summit. On the way back, treat yourself to some variety by turning left at the Öfeleralm and hiking north along the mountainside. After passing several enchanting lakes, you will reach the Regenfeldalm. From here, it is only a short descent to the Foissachalm, before finally returning to the parking lot via a steeper route.

In addition, we can recommend two high-altitude trails. The Pinzgauer Höhenweg runs for 25 kilometers in the southern part of the Kitzbühel Alps. It is easy to manage, well-marked, and runs without major technical difficulties. Whether you take several days for it or complete everything in one day as an experienced hiker depends on your condition. Start the tour at the Schmittenhöhe, the local mountain of Zell am See, which is accessible by cable car. On your way, you will always have the peaks of the Hohe Tauern in your field of vision. However, pay attention to good equipment - due to the altitude, snow can also fall here in summer. Some mountain huts, such as the Pinzgauer Hütte, are suitable for overnight stays.

On the Saalachtaler Höhenweg in the Salzburg part, you can reach family-friendly paths from the Asitz to the Biberg in Saalfelden (about 4.5 hours), from where you can whizz back into the valley with the summer toboggan run.