E5 long-distance hiking trail
Everything about stages, huts & transport in the Pitztal.
The European long-distance hiking trail E5 connects the Atlantic coast of France with the Italian Adriatic. Its most famous section leads right through the heart of the Alps: from Oberstdorf to Merano. Those who hike the E5 embark on a journey through all of Europe's climate zones. From the lush green alpine pastures of the Allgäu to the rugged rock faces of the Lechtal Alps and the glaciated giants of the Ötztal and Pitztal Alps, before finally arriving in the Mediterranean flair of South Tyrol. It is the ultimate test of endurance, surefootedness and the will to conquer the Alps under your own steam.
Why the Pitztal is the centrepiece of the E5
1. the spectacular "finale" on the main Alpine ridge
While other sections often lead through wooded valleys, the Pitztal valley shows its pristine side. The transition into Ötztal is the moment when mountain hiking becomes real mountaineering. Here you are closer to the glacier of the Mittelbergferner than anywhere else on the route.
2. maximum contrasts in the smallest of spaces
The Pitztal offers a scenic dramaturgy that is unrivalled:
The gentle start: around Wenns you hike through idyllic cultivated landscapes and fragrant stone pine forests.
The alpine wilderness: the deeper you go into the valley, the steeper the flanks of the Kaunergrat Nature Park rise up.
The world of glaciers: At the end of the valley in Mittelberg, you suddenly find yourself in front of a wall of rock and ice - a sight that leaves every E5 hiker in awe.
The Pitztal stages of the E5
3. glacier panorama & enjoyment
The ascent to the Braunschweiger Hütte (2,759 m) is the captivating highlight of your crossing of the Alps. Once you reach the top, the highest hut on the E5 serves hearty Tyrolean delicacies in a box seat directly on the eternal ice. While you fortify yourself for the rest of the route, you can enjoy the spectacular view of the glacier giants.
4. the "safety guarantee" of the valley alternative
The Pitztal is one of the few valleys on the E5 that offers a fully-fledged and beautiful alternative. If the fresh snow whips up on the Jöchl or your strength is failing, you don't have to abort your crossing of the Alps. The Pitztal valley hiking trail leads you safely through the spectacular mountain landscape and past thundering waterfalls such as the Stuibenfall, so you don't have to miss out on that E5 feeling.
5. alpine infrastructure at top level
In the Pitztal, comfort goes hand in hand with hiking. The frequent Regio buses and reliable hiking taxis (including luggage transfer) allow for flexible planning. In the evening, you can recharge your batteries in hiker-friendly accommodation. The local restaurants serve hearty Tyrolean cuisine to revitalise tired legs. Everything here is designed so that you can concentrate on the essentials: Your trail.
