Winter hike Stage 2: From Scharnitz to Seefeld – Seefeld High Plateau Winter Multi-day Hike

open
Scharnitz / Karwendel
Difficulty ratings: easy
Route length: 12.0 km
Duration: 3:30 h

A leisurely walk to the so-called “Gateway to the Karwendel” with refreshment stops and an ever-changing landscape along the way. 

Tour information

  • Requirement: easy
  • Length: 12.0 km
  • Duration: 3:30 h
  • Elevation uphill:270 hm
  • Elevation downhill:50 hm
Highest point1,180 m

Starting point

Scharnitz Railway station

Finishing point

Seefeld Railway Station
  • Fitness level 3 / 6
  • Technique 3 / 6

Features

  • Multi-day hike

Best time of year

  • January
  • February
  • March
  • April
  • May
  • June
  • July
  • August
  • September
  • October
  • November
  • December

Trail condition

Cleared winter hiking trail.

Equipment

Wear multiple layers, warm gloves, hat, waterproof jacket and pants, as well as waterproof winter hiking boots.

For better support and comfort, poles and crampons (spikes) are helpful, especially in difficult conditions.

Source: Region Seefeld

Description

This is a cleared winter hiking trail. However, icy or slippery sections may still occur.

Stage 2 of the Seefeld High Plateau Winter Multi-day Hike connects the idyllic village of Scharnitz – also known as the “Gateway to the Karwendel” – with the vibrant center of Seefeld. The route leads through varied winter landscapes, quiet settlements, snow-covered forests, and also offers cozy refreshment stops along the way.

The stage starts at Scharnitz train station, which can be reached from Seefeld by train (included with the PlateauCard). From there, the route first follows Innsbrucker Straße to the church. Directly opposite, the trail turns right onto Hirlanda-Ellmann-Weg, which leads through a quiet residential area to Sportplatzweg. Continue along the edge of the village, where the trail merges into hiking path no. 19. This path takes you through snow-covered forests and crisp winter air to Gießenbach.

Once in Gießenbach, Gasthof Ramona invites you to take your first break – perfect for a warming pause. Cross the main road directly opposite, walk past the parking area, and then cross the railway tracks. After the tracks, turn right onto Hirnweg (trail no. 6) and follow it to the railway underpass. Keep right there, following the signs toward Bodenalm.

After crossing the main road again, the trail briefly runs parallel to the cross-country ski track and then continues to Bodenalm (please note: closed in winter). From here, the route leads through a quiet, dense forest to the idyllic Gasthof Triendlsäge – beautifully set between thick woodland and a small stream. After a stop at Triendlsäge, follow the signs through the forest in the direction of Seefeld. Upon arrival, the trail continues via Heilbadstraße, Wasserfallweg, and finally Münchnerstraße, leading directly back into Seefeld’s lively village center.

Refreshment stops along the way:

Extension option:
Take the train to Mittenwald and walk via the Riedboden back to Scharnitz and on to Seefeld. This adds approx. 1 h 45 min of walking time (about 6.72 km from Mittenwald to Scharnitz). The train ride to Scharnitz is free with the PlateauCard; for Mittenwald, a small surcharge applies (tickets can be purchased at Seefeld station before departure).

Scenic highlights and viewpoints:
Riedboden between Mittenwald and Scharnitz (when choosing the extension option)

Nearby huts and mountain restaurants

Getting here

More tours in the surrounding area

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