Animals and plants

Special encounters

Livestock on alpine pastures

Mountain dreams become a reality in Innsbruck. A simple glance out of the window at the surrounding mountain peaks will make you want to head straight out. The Innsbruck region has countless different routes and the hiking trails in the area are particularly popular. In summer, the forests and meadows are often inhabited by livestock such as sheep and cattle. They spend their summer holidays up in the alpine pastures munching on juicy alpine herbs, which makes their milk particularly healthy. Don't be afraid if you see animals grazing or need to pass them. But please do stay alert and follow the important rules of conduct!

Alpine pastures are not a petting zoo and cows are not soft toys

Hikers with dogs should be particularly careful: if a cow feels threatened or has a calf, it will react. By the way, you can normally hear from a distance whether there are animals grazing nearby. The animals usually wear bells around their necks when they are up in the mountains to make them easier to find. This is also practical for hikers because it means you won't come across them unexpectedly.

Dogs must be kept on a leash on hiking trails and in alpine terrain! This is mandatory. If you have a dog with you, please be sure to keep it on the lead. Unfortunately there are no exceptions to this rule. If you have an encounter with a cow: just let go of the leash, your dog will be faster without you. Avoid making any quick movements and get yourself to safety.

Cows are not normally interested in hikers without dogs. Just walk on calmly and avoid any sudden movements or bursts of activity.

Delicate plants

Most beautiful in nature

Not every flower wants to be picked. Enjoy alpine plants in the wild. The myth of needing to pick an edelweiss during a mountain tour or having to bring a blue gentian home with you is outdated. It is also forbidden. Plus: you wouldn't get much out of it anyway because these delicate plants immediately start to wilt. You should admire them in their natural surroundings instead. That is where they belong and are at their most beautiful. It's like with holiday memories. Some things you can hold in your hand, others you simply have to keep in your heart.

Our recommendation: leave the alpine plants where they are. They don't make good souvenirs anyway.