Starting point: Johannis Hütte
Leaving the Johannis Hütte, the Eagle Walk continues along the Venediger Höhenweg trail in an easterly direction. After around an hour hikers will reach a small high valley, where they should follow the signs for "Kreuzspitz-Höhenweg". This heads first in an southerly direction towards the Scherneskopf before turning off north. It is here that a series of switchbacks begin, taking hikers up to the exposed Schernesschaft ridge at 3,040 metres above sea level. Continue along this ridge – which has a steel rope anchored into the rock for safety – towards the Sajathütte hut. Those who have enough energy can climb the Kreuzspitze peak (3,155 m) with its fine views of the Großvenediger. However, hikers should be aware that there is still a relatively long section to complete from the Sajathütte hut to the day's final destination.
Food & drink: Sajathütte
First walk down a steep chute with loose rocks. Then proceeding on sandy terrain at the foot of the Rote Säule mountain. Finally, wander across a grassy slope to reach the Sajathütte hut (2,575 m). This is the perfect rest stop for hikers. Once replete and replenished, follow the Prägraten High Trail towards the Eissee Hütte hut. This route links the Sajathütte to the Eissee Hütte without having to descend to the valley floor. Leaving the Sajathütte, aim eastwards and round the southeast ridge of the Vorderer Sajatkopf peak at the so-called "Fenster" ("window"). From there, the trail heads northward and traverses a few chutes and gullies; they are quite easy to negotiate as there is a fixed anchoring system of cables. Ascend via a steep path that is moderated with switchbacks at times. Continue across the Inner Timmeltal Valley until you reach “Hinteres Wiesach”, where the steep gradient lessens. Cross the Timmelbach stream and wander across meadows to reach the quaint and lovely Eissee Hütte (2,521 m).
Finishing point: Eissee Hütte
IMPORTANT: As an alternative to this very difficult stage, hikers can instead walk from the Johannis Hütte straight over the Zopetscharte ridge to the Eissee Hütte. Walking time: approx. 4 hours, red (intermediate) trail; not an official walking path – hikers must be sure-footed
