Meraner Höhenweg

The Merano High Mountain Trail runs along the edge of the Texel Group Nature Park. Over long distances, it remains relatively constant at an altitude of about 1,400 m, but in between there are smaller and larger ascents to be mastered, up to several hundred meters. Two larger "outliers" lead to the Hochganghaus at 1,839 m and to the Eisjöchl, which at a proud 2,895 m represents the absolute highlight of the Merano High Mountain Trail.

Of course, the trail does not have to be completed as a whole, but can be enjoyed in different sections as desired. Officially, it is divided into a north and a south part, with the respective starting or ending points in the west in Katharinaberg in Schnalstal and in the east in Ulfas, a district of the municipality of Moos in Passeier. The southern section along the sunny side of the Texel Group is ideal for pleasure hikers, while the northern part has a more high-alpine character. While the southern part is even passable in some sections all year round, the northern part only allows hiking in the summer months from June to September.

Those who would like to tackle the entire route should expect to be on the road for three to eight days, depending on their condition and stage division. Along the high trail, there are snack stations, alpine and mountain huts at regular intervals. So, there is plenty of food, accommodation options, and protection from rain and storms.

The Merano High Mountain Trail was opened in 1985. For the most part, it uses historical paths that have been used by mountain farmers since time immemorial. The views of the highest peaks of the nature park, the Texelspitze at 3,318 m, the Roteck at 3,337 m, the Hohe Weiße (3,281 m), and the Trübwand (3,266 m) are just as impressive and breathtaking as the panorama that opens up over Merano, the Vinschgau, the main Alpine ridge, and the Passeier and Schnalstal valleys.

The surroundings of the Merano High Mountain Trail are also fascinating. The surrounding towns offer numerous sights and attractions. These include the spa town of Merano with its flair, culture, thermal baths, and elegant parks and promenades; the Passeier Valley with its old manor farms; the famous Castle Tyrol with the regional museum; Naturns with the Romanesque Prokulus Church and the nature park house; Castle Juval, part of the Messner Mountain Museum; natural beauties such as the Spronser Lakes or the Partschinser Waterfall; and finally, the Archeopark in Schnals and the site of the "Ötzi" on the Similaun Glacier.

In winter 2014, the Stettiner Hütte was severely affected by an avalanche. As a result, the hut is expected to be operated as a snack station without overnight accommodation until 2017 during the construction work. Some emergency sleeping places should be available in the meantime.

The walking time for the current Merano High Mountain Trail stage from Eishof/Pfossental to Zeppichl/Pfelders is approximately 7 hours (2100 meters in altitude). There are no overnight accommodations in between!