Mountain hikes Koasa Trail Stage 2

Stage 2 of the Wilder Kaiser Trail is a loop trail that starts and ends in Griesenau, with a lot of exciting things in between, including superb views of the Wilder Kaiser massif, quaint huts where you can take a break and refuel, and an abundance of scenic beauty. Stage 2 offers a longer and a shorter option to choose from.

Description

The Wilder Kaiser At It’s Best
 
Stage 2 of the Koasa Trail starts in pristine Kaiserbachtal valley. Along the way you will come across the Alpine Outdoor Gallery, which presents interesting information about animals, plants and the environment itself, as well as tips for the proper interaction with nature. Once you get deeper into the valley you will be surrounded by the rugged peaks off the Wilder Kaiser. The rolling pastures at the foot of the Kaiser Mountains almost look like waves breaking against rock walls.
 
The next attraction is the mountain rescuers’ chapel near a small brook. Brass plaques commemorate those who lost their lives in the Wilder Kaiser Massif. Once you have passed Griesner Alm, the trail climbs rather steeply to Stripsenjochhaus – at this point it becomes clear that stage 2 is not just a “walk in the woods”. The mountain inn is a great place to refuel and soak up the views of the surrounding peaks. After a relaxing break, we recommend you hike up to Tavonaro Cross just above the inn. Set against rugged peaks, the summit cross makes for a great photo opportunity.  
 
Your next stop is Feldberg at 1813 meters above sea level. Walking along the mountain ridge, you will see the Kaiser’s jagged northern peaks rising amid a sea of gray mountains and green pastures.
 
Descent via Ranggenalm
 
On your way down, you will pass Ranggenalm. Since you will have been walking some 4.5 hours at this point, chances are that you will be a little hungry and tired. If the man in charge of the farm and its animals, is not too busy working there’s a good chance he will treat you to hearty food and cold beverages. Enjoy!
 
Your last stretch of the day takes you along a narrow trail down to Fischbachalm, whose garden beckons with benches, loungers and a seesaw. The views of the Wilder Kaiser are once more spectacular: the massif rises like a fortress surrounded by an ocean of green. Many people have likened the views to those of the Dolomites in South Tirol. The loop ends with a pleasant walk along Kaiserbach river to the hamlet of Griesenau. You have reached the end of Stage 2!
 
Stage 2 - Alternate Route
 
Option 2 is about 5K and 2.5 hours shorter than Option 1. You basically do the hike in reverse, with Fischbachalm as your first stop. A narrow trail leads to Vordere Ranggenalm (beverages only) and on to Hintere Ranggenalm. A beautiful forest trail takes you to your last stop, the Griesner Alm. As in Option 1, follow Kaiserbach River back to the hamlet of Griesenau.