SNOWSHOE HIKING
Trudging through sunny winter landscapes on snowshoes is a relaxing and healthy alternative to spending your winter vacation away from the slopes. Our unspoiled mountain valleys in the Wipptal are ideal for snowshoe hiking in Tyrol.
Crunching snow under your feet, the warming winter sun on your face, fresh, clear mountain air in your nose and the sight of a snow-covered winter landscape - this is what awaits you on enjoyable snowshoe hikes and discovery tours in the Tyrolean Wipptal. Snowshoeing is becoming increasingly popular. Unlike conventional winter hiking , snowshoes, which are strapped under your hiking boots, allow you to walk over deep snow without sinking in. In the mountaineering villages of St. Jodok, Schmirn and Valsertal and the Gschnitztal, but also in other mountain valleys such as the Obernbergtal and Navistal, there are numerous snowshoe routes of varying degrees of difficulty for beginners and advanced hikers. Recommendations for snowshoe hikes can be found on our interactive map at https://www.wipptal.at/karte/.
Snowshoes and poles for your winter vacation can be rented free of charge with the guest card at the information office in Steinach or Matrei for a deposit. Snowshoes for the little ones are also available to hire.
Schneeschuhtouren
Mountain hiking guides Wipptal
Are you looking for a mountain guide or a tip for your tour?
On this page you will find all the contacts for hiking and mountain guides in the Wipptal and its mountain valleys, who will be happy to advise you and accompany you on your next tour.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions About Snowshoeing
1. Do I need any experience with snowshoeing?
No special technical skills are required for short and easy hikes. However, you should be able to walk confidently, be in reasonably good physical condition, and adapt the hike to the weather, snow conditions, and your personal ability. A guided hike is recommended for your first outing.
2. Is there an avalanche risk when snowshoeing?
Yes. As soon as you venture off marked trails into open terrain, there may be an avalanche risk—even in the woods or on seemingly easy hikes. Check the current avalanche reportbefore every hike and choose a route that matches your experience level. If you lack avalanche knowledge, you should stay on safe, flat terrain or join a guided tour.
3. What equipment do I need?
You’ll need sturdy, preferably waterproof hiking or winter boots, warm clothing layered according to the “onion” principle, gloves, a hat, sunglasses or ski goggles, and hiking poles with large snow baskets. You should also pack drinks, snacks, sunscreen, and a small first-aid kit in your backpack. In avalanche-prone terrain, an avalanche transceiver, probe, and shovel are required, and you must know how to use them safely.
4. Are there any suitable hikes for children?
The hike around Lake Obernberg is described as family-friendly. It’s a great choice for your first snow hike with children and can be extended if desired. You can find more details on our blog.
5. How strenuous is snowshoeing?
Walking in the snow requires significantly more effort than hiking on a cleared trail. To get started, choose a short hike with little elevation gain, and plan for more time than you would for a normal hike.
6. What should I do if the weather or visibility worsens?
Turn back early and don’t wait until it becomes difficult to find your way. Snowfall, fog, and wind can quickly cover existing tracks. A saved offline map is helpful, but it is no substitute for safe trip planning and sound judgment on the ground. Also, please stay on the recommended trails and respect wildlife quiet zones, protected areas, and private property. Wild animals need peace and quiet, especially in winter, as every escape costs them a lot of energy.
