Hiking vacations in Austria

For less experienced climbers, a mountain guide is recommended on high hikes and when crossing glaciers (attention: crevasses). Crossing glaciers is only possible using a rope and in groups. Before setting out on a hike or mountain expedition, you should notify your landlord about your destination and expected time of return. Walk slowly, take regular breaks and take in plenty of fluids.

Blue trails are easy walks!

These are well signposted throughout the whole way, sufficiently wide, usually only reasonably steep, not exposed, and relatively safe even in bad weather. They are suitable for the whole family and can be completed with appropriate footwear and standard hiking equipment.

Red hiking trails are medium-hard walking-tours!

These are signposted, mostly narrow, often steep, partly exposed and require experience in bad weather. In some cases mountain paths with short, secured sections of climbing. These are places which can only be managed using your hands. These paths should only be tackled by sure-footed, fit mountain hikers with the correct mountain equipment.

Black hiking trails are difficult mountain hikes!

These are signposted, narrow, very steep in all or some parts, often exposed and can be dangerous in bad weather. These are paths which can also present longer, secured sections of climbing and should only be tackled by mountain climbers who are very sure-footed, very, not in the least afraid of heights, have good alpine experience and are equipped with mountain equipment suitable for the demands of the path. The fixed rope routes are also included in the black mountain paths.

4 basic safety rules for hiking in the Alps

• Only walk in the mountains if you are fit and healthy!
  Plan your route according to the time of day, time of year and the weather conditions. Make sure you have good footwear with solid grip soles, good clothing and equipment (for wet, cold conditions)
• Take note of the path’s classification according to the difficulty ratings!
  Set the walking pace in line with your ability. At the start, warm up with 30 minutes of slow walking. Take a 10 min. break every 2 hours to eat and drink. At 2000 m above sea level and up, allow enough time to get acclimatised. In case of tiredness and exhaustion, stop immediately and take adequate rest! Drink plenty throughout the mountain hike, but avoid alcohol.
• Always keep to the signposted paths!
  If you get lost, stay where you are and attract attention to yourself using the alpine emergency signal (6 whistles or 6 flash signals per minute, 1 minute’s break). Repeat until help arrives!
  Don’t forget first aid gear and emergency equipment! You have a duty to help other people who get into trouble!
• Look after the countryside!
  Do not leave any litter behind, take all rubbish back down with you.