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Think hiking in Innsbruck and you probably picture a stroll through a meadow on a lush summer’s day. But here’s a little-known secret: hiking is also a winter sport! And with uncrowded paths and unspoilt nature, it is probably one of the nicest ways to enjoy the region’s amazing scenery.

Here are three stunning winter walks, all just a short distance from Innsbruck city centre.

Umbrüggler Alm: An Innsbruck Classic

Since opening a few years ago, this modern alm has become a popular mountain spot in both summer and winter. And it’s exceedingly easy to get to.

The hike starts in the Innsbruck district of Hungerburg. Walk up through the lift car park and take the path to the left as indicated by the yellow hiking signs. Then simply follow the path up the mountain—we recommend going slowly, the path is not long but it is quite steep in places!

After about 45 minutes, the forest clears and you’ll see the stylish Umbrüggler Alm up above you. This is an alm that doesn’t disappoint. The food is delicious, the service is good and full of character, and the view is simply breathtaking. Oh, and did we mention they have a log fire?

For more information, check out this post about hiking to the Umbrüggler Alm in fresh snow.

Start: Hungerburg (take the J bus or Hungerburgbahn funicular to Nordkette)

Duration: 45 minutes

Change of altitude: 255m

Difficulty: Medium

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Panoramaweg Mutters: Explore Innsbruck’s Villages

Innsbruck is surrounded by many picturesque villages and Mutters is one of the nicest. Set at the foot of the mighty Nockspitze peak, it is the ideal place to fall in love with Innsbruck’s winter nature.

Begin the hike at Mutters Freizeitzentrum recreation centre. Follow the yellow signposts as they lead you on a gentle stroll through the forest towards Götzens. Along the way, you’ll be treated to some amazing views of the snowy Nordkette mountains and Inntal valley down below. They don’t call it the Panorama-weg for nothing!

Eventually, you will arrive at the Nockspitzbahn cable car in Götzens, which is the end of this particular hike. But if you’ve still got energy for adventuring, you can take one of the many paths from Götzens and explore the plateau further.

Start: Mutters Freizeitzentrum (take the STB tram to Birchfeld)

Duration: 90 minutes

Change of altitude: 116m

Difficulty: Easy

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Patscherkofel Vitalweg: The Best View of Innsbruck

If you’re looking for a winter walk that really takes you into the mountains, then this is the hike for you!

The hike starts at the mid-station of the Patscherkofelbahn cable car. Exit the station and cross the piste, following the signs for the Patscher Alm. Take the path up behind the alm and follow its endless curves gently up the mountain, enjoying the breathtaking views as you walk.

Eventually, you will come out of the forest and rejoin the top of the cable car. All that’s left to do is to tuck into some hearty Tyrolean food in either the modern Das Kofel restaurant or the rustic Schutzhaus, before taking the lift back down to the valley.

But be careful! Depending on the snow conditions, the Vitalweg may only be accessible with snowshoes. It is best to check with the staff at the bottom of the lift before heading up. If you do need snowshoes, these can be rented at the Intersport hire shop at the bottom station and are easy to use, even if you’ve never done it before.

Start: Patscherkofel cable car (take the J bus to Patscherkofel)

Duration: 90 minutes (longer if snowshoes are required)

Change of altitude: 250m

Difficulty: Medium

Full Route Information

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