This varied and scenic culinary circular hike through the alpine paradise of the Gaistal Valley combines regional food highlights, gentle trails, and countless moments in nature into a truly relaxing hiking experience. The high plateau reveals itself at its very best, with stunning landscapes, traditional mountain huts, and peaceful resting spots. There’s only one warning: once you’ve experienced this tour, you’ll definitely want to come back again.
Gravel trails and forest trail.
All current information about the trail closures in the Region Seefeld can be found here.
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Sturdy hiking shoes, functional clothing, a backpack, water, snacks, basic fitness, and sure-footedness are recommended for this hike.
Additionally, a hiking map or GPS, a first aid kit, sun protection, and hiking poles are advisable.
The Gaistal Culinary Circular Hike in the Leutasch Valley is an easy and panoramic hike for anyone who loves nature, good food, and a relaxed pace. Covering around 11 kilometres with approximately 260 metres of elevation gain, the route follows wide, clearly signposted trails through the idyllic Gaistal Valley, accompanied by the Leutascher Ache river and framed by the Wetterstein Mountains and the Mieming Range. Along the way, three serviced alpine huts invite hikers to stop and enjoy authentic regional cuisine.
The starting point is the Salzbach parking area (P3, P4, P5), which offers ample parking spaces, public toilets, and the nearby Gaistal/Salzbach bus stop. This makes the hike easily accessible by public transport as well.
From the car park, a broad and well-marked hiking trail leads to the Hämmermoosalm(1,417 m), the first stop along the route. The ascent involves only around 170 metres of elevation gain. At the top, a sunny terrace with panoramic mountain views provides the perfect place for a first break.
The trail then briefly returns before continuing along the peaceful Ganghoferweg towards the Gaistalalm. This section is particularly pleasant to walk: gently ascending, mostly flat, and offering beautiful views across the valley.
The Gaistalalm(1,369 m) is the next refreshment stop and ideal for another relaxed break. From there, a short forest trail climbs gently uphill to the Tillfussalm(1,382 m). Nestled quietly below the Jagdhaus Hubertus hunting lodge, this alpine hut marks the culinary finale of the tour.
For the return journey, there are two relaxed options: either retrace the same route or follow forest road no. 7 along the Leutascher Ache river (please note: this section is shared with cyclists). The river accompanies the trail back into the valley and offers refreshing opportunities to cool off during the summer months.
At the Salzbach parking area, a Kneipp water therapy facility with water features awaits at the end of the hike — the perfect place to wind down and relax after the tour.
Highlights of the Gaistal Culinary Circular Hike
• Three cosy serviced alpine huts with regional cuisine and sunny terraces: Hämmermoosalm, Gaistalalm, and Tillfussalm
• Spectacular alpine scenery in the Gaistal Valley between the Wetterstein Mountains, the Mieming Range, and the Hohe Munde
• The Leutascher Ache river with refreshing spots to cool off
• Kneipp facility and water features directly at the start and finish point
• Wide, well-marked, and technically easy hiking trails
• Convenient starting point with parking, bus connection, and public facilities
Take the bus to Leutasch and get off at the 'Gaistal/Salzbach' bus stop.
All real-time connections can be found in the route planner.
Parking lots P3, P4, and P5 'Salzbach' in Gaistal - Leutasch.
You can find all other car parks in Leutasch here.