Character
A high-alpine hut-to-hut traverse of the Zillertal Alps. Daily stages aren't extreme in length, but exposure, secured sections, rocky traverses and the Schönbichler Horn crossing (3,134 m) make it a demanding alpine trek.
Alpine Treks
BHW Berliner Höhenweg
A classic hut-to-hut traverse of the Zillertal Alps. Nine stages link eight high mountain huts around a glaciated ridge between Finkenberg and Mayrhofen, with exposed traverses, secured sections and the crossing of the Schönbichler Horn (3,134 m).
Overview
The Berliner Höhenweg (Zillertaler Runde) is one of Austria's best-known hut-to-hut traverses. The route stays high above the Zillertal valley, passing beneath glaciers and over several passes around 3,000 m; its highest point is the Schönbichler Horn (3,134 m). Nights are spent in historic mountain huts — among them the Berliner Hütte (2,044 m), the largest hut in Tyrol, dating from 1879. The trek demands sure footing, a head for exposure and high-alpine experience; some sections are secured with cables.
- Distance
- 85 km
- Time
- 7-9 days
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Total elevation gain
- 6,500 m
Route & profile
Quick orientation of the route line, start, end and elevation profile.
Elevation profileHighest 2,477 m a.s.l. · Friesenberghaus
Zillertálské Alpy, Tyrolsko
85 km · 9 stages · ↑ 6,500 m
Approximate point elevations derived from Copernicus DEM GLO-90 after geocoding stage locations via OSM; problematic points manually verified from map or trekking sources. Verify the specific GPX/map before your trip.
Map data: OpenStreetMap contributors, displayed via Waymarked Trails.
Planning
From late June to mid-September. Snow can linger on passes and traverses early in the season; September is quieter but huts close at month's end.
What to expect
Who it's for
Experienced high-alpine hikers with sure footing and a head for exposure. Several sections are cable-secured; care is needed on scree and snowfields.
Suggested pace
The classic route takes 7 to 9 days. The Gamshütte–Friesenberghaus and Kasseler–Edelhütte stages are long and only advisable in good weather.
Logistics
Start in Finkenberg, finish in Mayrhofen (4.5 km apart), both reachable by public transport via the Zillertalbahn. Book the huts (DAV/ÖAV sections) ahead in season.
Resupply & permits
Resupply
Supplies and services only in Finkenberg and Mayrhofen at the start and finish. On the trail you eat at the huts (half board).
Permits & regulations
No permits required; hut reservations are needed and alpine-club membership is recommended (hut discounts).
Why go
- A classic Zillertal Alps traverse with glacier views.
- The historic Berliner Hütte (1879), the largest hut in Tyrol.
- The Schönbichler Horn crossing (3,134 m) with a panorama of 3,000 m peaks.
Watch out for
- Exposed, cable-secured sections require sure footing and a head for heights.
- Plan the long stages only in good weather.
- Snowfields can linger on passes and traverses even in summer.
- Huts have a short season and require reservations.
Sources
Official
Guides & blogs
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time for Berliner Höhenweg?
From late June to mid-September. Snow can linger on passes and traverses early in the season; September is quieter but huts close at month's end.
How hard is Berliner Höhenweg?
Berliner Höhenweg is rated as Hard. A high-alpine hut-to-hut traverse of the Zillertal Alps. Daily stages aren't extreme in length, but exposure, secured sections, rocky traverses and the Schönbichler Horn crossing (3,134 m) make it a demanding alpine trek.
How many days does Berliner Höhenweg take?
Berliner Höhenweg usually takes 7–9 days. The classic route takes 7 to 9 days. The Gamshütte–Friesenberghaus and Kasseler–Edelhütte stages are long and only advisable in good weather.
Do I need a permit for Berliner Höhenweg?
No permits required; hut reservations are needed and alpine-club membership is recommended (hut discounts).
What about resupply on Berliner Höhenweg?
Supplies and services only in Finkenberg and Mayrhofen at the start and finish. On the trail you eat at the huts (half board).
