Family Nordkette Hike - Pastures & Tyrolean Delicacies

Hiking adventure, no matter how small, is a one-day reservation at least, so it’s essential to carry with you some fuel in a form of food and water. But on this Nordkette stroll through breathtaking pastures, you will find out the benefits of huts that give their part to your local experience – in a form of views, shelter and cuisine. Located not far above the city and at the foot of the Nordkette, Innsbruck’s alpine pastures are a popular destination for the whole family and can often be reached on foot in winter. So wait no longer, find out everything you need to know about this trip and join Mountain Moments in this family and photo-friendly thrill-hike.

Interior at modern Umbrüggler Hut (New Hut was build in 2015 around) – Arzler Hut is a more traditional and much older hut. Both have good local food. (Vegans and Glutenfree and other meal options are very limited, tho)

This easy hike offers easy trails and a mountain experience close to the city. Again and again, the forest gives you a view of the valley to Innsbruck.

Despite being only a few hundred meters away, here you are “on the mountain, in nature”, you can switch off, enjoy the tranquility and recharge your batteries for the hustle and bustle of city life.

*Views from Nordkette hike over Innsbruck to Patscherkofel in Autumn*

Down-to-earth and original Tyrolean cuisine at the Arzler hut and a modern, contemporary interpretation of traditional hut architecture at the new Umbrüggler hut round off the alpine city experience. For a short, enjoyable walk, it is recommended to hike just one of the two alpine pastures.

Directions! This is how your Nordkette adventure looks like on a map

From the northern end of the Hungerburg parking lot (Nordkettenbahn valley station, 868m), walk uphill and a few meters through the houses. At the road (Rosnerweg) to the right and after about 200m to the left take the turn Arzler hut short steep uphill. Now follow the hiking trail, which promises an enjoyable experience, and the signs to the Arzler hut (1067m).

After a short or longer break from the Arzler hut follow the forest road uphill – the Höttinger Almweg – towards Höttinger hut. After just under 1km at the bend and junction straight ahead flat or slightly downhill continue about 1km towards Umbrüggler hut (1120m).

From the hut follow the ski slope downhill and follow the signs to Hungerburg. Alternatively, directly below the Umbrüggler alm take the inconspicuous Taubental way to the left and follow it to the station Hungerburg (868m).

Hiking map for our beloved Innsbruck-hut hiking trip: This half day hike is rated as easy (or medium easy depending which route you take) and suitable for families. We like to tackle this demanding walk on sundays with friends and family. Try some local deliciacies: Tyrolean Dumplings at Umgrüggler Hut or Arzler Hut.

Photo tips that will make your Instagram pop – the Arzler and Umbrüggler huts

The Arzler hut is a beautiful, classic Tyrolean alpine pasture and offers various photo opportunities with its traditional ambiance. The Umbrüggler hut, on the other hand, contrasts with very modern architecture and an upscale ambiance.

*Umbrüggler Hut views – you can also take this hike in winter days – get local information if its possible before trying*

Those Nordkette Views to Innsbruck never dissapoint. This alpine meadows is a bit higher than in the map. Continue from Umbrüggler Hut further to Höttinger hut.

The most beautiful vantage point with an unobstructed view of the city is at the start and finish point at the viewing terrace directly at the top station of the Hungerburgbahn. — *This is Nordkette as seen from Patscherkofel (other side of the city). You will be hiking straight above the main cits (mid left in the picture)* *around the height of the smog in the fresh mountain air.*

Mountain Moments Photo Workshops provide Photo Tours for everybody, Alpine Experience for beginners and intermediate-level photographers with 3 to 6-hour routes, as well as Summit Experience for more advanced photographers and hikers. We have private workshops and group classes.

More information about your Nordkette hiking trip

How to get there by car: Always follow the signs Nordkettenbahn uphill and park at the Nordkettenbahn (fee required).

How to get there by public transport: From Innsbruck with bus line J in the direction of Hungerburg (terminus), alternatively from Congress with Hungerburgbahn to Hungerburg station.

Difficulty level: easy

Duration/disstance: 2h/ 5.4km

Ascent/descent: 330hm/330hm

Highest/lowest point: 1194m/865m

Refreshment stop: Arzler Alm, Umbrüggler Alm, café and restaurant next to gondola station.

Start/finish: Nordkettenbahn valley station (Hungerburg) (coordinates: geogr. 47.286007, 11.399138)

Best time: May-November

The best Summer Adventures in and around Innsbruck – Hiking, Mountainbiking, Trekking, Climbing and more

Innsbruck Guide for Summer sports enthusiasts! The best activities in the area! Get it now.

Fancy more Summer Adventures in Tyrol and around Innsbruck? We got you covered! The best outdoor sports activities for Summer Enthusiasts as eBook: Innsbruck Summer Outdoor Guide.

Here we have compiled the most beautiful locations and photo opportunities. 30 activities with numerous photo spots are selected and described in such a way that you can easily experience these wonderful adventures around Innsbruck for yourself – including track infos, and maps and all other information that you need.

You can take a closer look at the Innsbruck travel guide ebook here – why not share it with your adventure partner?

Marius

Hi, i am Marius, i love exploring the mountains and nature. Friends say, i know the mountains better than most locals, but actually i get lost all the time while photographing ;). Read more about the Mountain Moments Team.