Hike Near the City: From Arzler to Umbrüggler Alm

The UmbrügglerArzler Alm are popular hiking destinations, easily accessible from the Hungerburg, as you can read about in this blog post, for example. The alpine pastures themselves are very well-known, but the trail connecting the two is considered an insider tip. Today, I’d like to introduce you to this beautiful hike. First things first: The forest trail, which is narrow in places, requires sure footing in some sections and is therefore only recommended for younger hikers if they’re in a hiking carrier (a backpack designed for hiking with toddlers). 

The hike up to the Arzler Alm from the Hungerburg takes about 30 to 40 minutes. From here, a very scenic and varied trail —with a total elevation gain of about 100 meters—leads westward to the Umbrüggler.

The total walking time for the hike is approximately 40 minutes.

In the summer, the animals are always a special highlight at the Arzler Alm. The hares—which my kids call “giant spoonbills” because of their truly amazingly large ears—love to be fed fresh herbs over the fence.  Right across from there, we can watch the ducks take a dip. Right next to them, we marvel at the cute pigs from Reithmann High School, who are spending their summer vacation here. Right now, they ’re chilling in the shade of their little hut in their spacious fenced-in area. For several weeks now, hens and proud roosters have been roaming freely, though one or the other has surely just escaped again. 

At the Arzler Alm , we refuel with a kids’ schnitzel. The classic carrot cake with coconut cream ( or “Schlagobers,” as we say in Austria) is our absolute favorite cake. Luckily, it’s almost always available, so we can’t miss out on it today either. The coffee, served to us in a flash by the very friendly staff, tastes delicious as always. 

Refreshed and motivated , we set off from the Arzler Alm heading west ona narrow trail that first takes us across the alpine meadows and then straight into the pleasantly shady forest.

Now we'll mostly be walking along a root-covered path —which is wider at the start —through the enchanting, cool forest.

About ten minutes later , we reach a forest clearing with a wonderful view to the south towardthe Bergisel ski jump and the Serles.

After another ten minutes of walking, we cross the cable car platform of the Nordkettenbahnen leading to the Seegrube. Fascinated, we look up and marvel at this amazing view, as well as at the mountaineerswho, despite the steep incline, stride past us with quick steps, determinedand focused on the summit. 

We continue our hike and follow the signpost toward [/notrans] Umbrüggler Alm. [/notrans]

About five minutes later, we reach another clearing with a fork in the trail. Here ,we take the small trail thatveers sharply to the right and uphill.

Now there's a slight incline. We eagerly follow the root-strewn trail for about five minutes and keep to the right at the next fork.

Here , on the right-hand side , we discover a special treasure of the Nordkette—where drinking fountains are rather scarce—the Titschenbrunnen. Here we can cool off and refill our water bottles.

The flora isdominated by spruce and fir trees, which make up most of the shady mountain forest. We also find scattered beech trees.

In summer, we find a rich variety of alpine flora here, including alpine flowers such as gentian, alpine snowbell, and the alpine columbine. It blooms in shades of violet and blue and thrives in shady, moist forest areas.

We continue through very lush vegetation, stepping over roots on a now narrow trail that requires sure footing. Along the way, we enjoy the scents, the fresh forest air, and the sounds of the forest. If you’re attentive and quiet, you might spot a deer or two.

After another five minutes’ walk, we cross a tiny stream and marvel at this fairytale-like stretch of trail before taking a small path that crosses the main trail leading to the Umbrügglerleads. We stop for a break at the Umbrüggler Alm and, in addition to the breathtaking view, enjoy a delicious treat from the renowned alpine cuisine. 

The other direction— from the Umbrüggler to the Arzler Alm — is also well worth the effort, especially since there’s a bit more of an uphill climb at the start and then it’s a leisurely walk to the Arzler Alm.

I’m fascinated by thebeautiful architecture of the Umbrüggler Alm. It was built using a contemporary Alpine timber-frame construction style. As you can already see in this photo, the building blends in very well with its surroundings. If you want to see more, you should definitely make your way up to the Alm yourself. It’s worth it—I promise.

Here, too, we treat ourselves to a little something:the cake of the day with lime and basil. The owner of the Umbrüggler Alm — a passionate cook —is clearly delighted that his latest creation is a hit with his guests. Our verdict: The Umbrüggler Alm is definitely worth a stop.