Austria — Innsbruck
Walk Austria's Via Augustana, a 130km moderate trek tracing an ancient Roman corridor through the dramatic Wipptal valley and Stubai Alps. This 7-9 day route offers a profound journey through time and terrain, linking historic towns with stunning alpine panoramas. Expect varied landscapes from rolling meadows to rugged ridges, with opportunities to witness pristine wilderness.
Distance: 130.0 km
Elevation Gain: 3500 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 7-9 days
The Via Augustana is a spectacular 130-kilometre multi-day trekking route that follows the historic corridor of the Via Claudia Augusta, the ancient Roman road that once connected the Adriatic port of Altinum and the river Po with the Danube. This specific Austrian section, centred around the dramatic Wipptal valley and the surrounding Stubai and Tuxer Alps, offers walkers a profound journey through time and terrain. Starting near the historic town of Matrei am Brenner, just south of Innsbruck, the trail weaves through high alpine meadows, dense larch forests, and traditional Tyrolean villages, eventually crossing the legendary Brenner Pass. With a total elevation gain of approximately 3,500 metres, the route is classified as moderate, making it accessible to fit hikers who wish to combine physical challenge with deep cultural immersion. Unlike many high-altitude alpine circuits, the Via Augustana stays primarily on well-maintained paths and ancient trade routes, providing a unique perspective on how humanity has traversed these formidable mountains for over two millennia.
The Via Augustana is more than just a hiking trail; it is a living museum of European history. The route traverses the heart of the Tyrol region, a landscape defined by its jagged limestone peaks and deep, emerald-green valleys. For the modern walker, the trail provides a masterclass in alpine geography. The journey begins in the lower reaches of the Wipptal, where the Sill River has carved a path through the mountains, creating a natural transit corridor that has been used since the Bronze Age. As you progress southward, the scenery shifts from the pastoral charm of hay meadows and flower-filled balconies to the rugged, windswept beauty of the high passes.
The difficulty is rated as moderate, primarily because the trail avoids technical climbing or extreme exposure. However, the cumulative distance and daily elevation changes require a solid level of fitness. Walkers can expect to cover between 15 and 20 kilometres per day, with climbs ranging from 400 to 800 metres. The path itself is a mixture of gravel forest roads, narrow mountain tracks, and occasional paved sections through historic village centres. This variety keeps the walking engaging, as every turn reveals a new vista—perhaps a hidden chapel perched on a cliffside, a thundering waterfall fed by glacial melt, or a herd of Haflinger horses grazing in a high-altitude basin.
One of the defining characteristics of the Via Augustana is its accessibility to local culture. Unlike wilderness treks that isolate the hiker from civilisation, this route encourages interaction with the Tyrolean way of life. You will pass through "Bergsteigerdörfer" (mountaineering villages) like Trins and Gries am Brenner, where the pace of life remains dictated by the seasons and the mountains. The hospitality found in the mountain huts (Alms) is legendary, offering weary travellers a chance to sample local specialities like Speckknödel (bacon dumplings) and Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancakes) while overlooking the peaks they have just conquered. This blend of natural splendour and cultural richness makes the Via Augustana one of the most rewarding long-distance walks in the Eastern Alps.
The history of the Via Augustana is inextricably linked to the Roman Empire's expansion into Northern Europe. In 15 BC, Drusus and Tiberius, the stepsons of Emperor Augustus, led a military campaign to conquer the Alpine tribes and secure the mountain passes. To consolidate their control and facilitate trade, they began the construction of the Via Claudia Augusta. Completed under Emperor Claudius in 47 AD, it became the first proper road across the Alps, wide enough for wagons and maintained by a network of stations and fortifications. The section you walk today follows the "Brenner Route," which served as the primary artery for Roman legions, merchants, and later, Holy Roman Emperors travelling to Rome for their coronations.
Throughout the Middle Ages, the route remained the most important trade link between Germany and Italy. The "Brenner" was the lowest pass in the main chain of the Alps, making it the path of least resistance for the transport of salt, wine, and silk. The wealth generated by this trade is still visible in the architecture of the towns along the trail. Matrei am Brenner, for instance, was a vital staging post where horses were changed and tolls were collected. The town's historic inns, some with foundations dating back centuries, have hosted everyone from Goethe to Mozart. As you walk, you will encounter Roman milestones, medieval ruins, and Baroque churches, each layer of history stacked upon the last like the geological strata of the mountains themselves.
The cultural significance of the trail also extends to the local farming traditions. The "Alm" system—the seasonal movement of livestock to high-altitude pastures—has shaped the landscape for over a thousand years. The open meadows you traverse are not natural clearings but carefully managed landscapes that support a unique ecosystem of alpine flora. The stone walls, hay barns, and shrines (Marterl) found along the path are testaments to the resilience and faith of the mountain people. Understanding this history transforms the walk from a physical exercise into a pilgrimage through the soul of the Tyrol.
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The window for walking the Via Augustana is dictated by the alpine snowpack. While the valleys may be green by May, the higher passes and shaded forest tracks often hold snow well into June. Consequently, the prime season is from mid-June to late September. During this period, the mountain huts are fully operational, and the trail is generally clear of significant snow hazards.
Early Summer (June to July): This is arguably the most beautiful time to visit. The alpine meadows are in full bloom, with gentians, primroses, and the iconic Almenrausch (alpine rose) creating a vibrant tapestry of colour. The days are long, and the air is crisp. However, this is also the time for "Wärmegewitter"—afternoon thunderstorms triggered by the summer heat. Hikers should aim to reach their destination by mid-afternoon to avoid these sudden and often violent storms.
Late Summer (August): This is the peak of the holiday season. The weather is generally stable and warm, with temperatures in the valleys reaching 25°C, though it remains significantly cooler at higher elevations. The trails and huts are at their busiest, so advanced booking is essential. The water levels in the mountain streams are lower, but the high-altitude lakes are at their most inviting for a brave (and very cold) dip.
Autumn (September): Many experienced hikers consider September the best month for the Via Augustana. The air becomes exceptionally clear, providing the best long-distance views of the Stubai glaciers and the Dolomites to the south. The crowds thin out, and the larch forests begin their transformation into a brilliant gold. While the days are shorter and the mornings can be frosty, the stability of the weather makes for excellent walking conditions. By early October, many huts begin to close, and the first significant snowfalls of the coming winter can arrive at any time.
Day 1: Matrei am Brenner to Maria Waldrast
Day 2: Maria Waldrast to Trins
Day 3: Trins to Obernberg am Brenner
Day 4: Obernberg Lake Circuit and Gries am Brenner
Day 5: Gries am Brenner to Sattelbergalm
Day 6: Sattelbergalm to Gossensass (Italy/South Tyrol)
Day 7: Gossensass to Sterzing (Vipiteno)
Day 8: Sterzing to Franzensfeste
The Via Augustana requires careful logistical planning, particularly regarding transport and accommodation. While the trail is well-marked with the yellow Austrian Alpine Club signs and the specific "Via Claudia Augusta" logo, carrying a detailed 1:25,000 scale map is essential. Fitness is a key consideration; while the paths are not technical, walking for 8 consecutive days with a pack requires endurance. It is recommended to undertake several day hikes with a weighted pack in the weeks leading up to the trip.
Innsbruck serves as the primary gateway. It is a major transport hub with an international airport and excellent rail connections to Munich, Vienna, and Zurich. From Innsbruck, the S-Bahn (suburban train) runs every 30 minutes to Matrei am Brenner, making the trailhead exceptionally easy to reach. If you are driving, Matrei has long-term parking options, though returning by train from the finish point is the most efficient method.
Accommodation on the Via Augustana is a highlight of the experience, ranging from high-altitude mountain huts to historic village inns. In the Austrian section, you will primarily stay in "Gasthöfe" (guesthouses) and "Alms" (mountain pastures with lodging).
Hut and Guesthouse Facilities:
Booking Requirements:
One of the great advantages of the Via Augustana is that no formal permits or entry fees are required to walk the trail. The route makes use of public rights of way, historic roads, and forest tracks that are open to all. However, there are several "soft" requirements and costs that walkers must be aware of to ensure a smooth journey.
Accommodation Bookings: While not a permit, your booking confirmations serve as your "itinerary" and are often required if you are using a luggage transfer service. During the high season, turning up at a hut without a reservation is strongly discouraged and may result in being turned away if the hut is at capacity.
Fishing and Camping: Wild camping is strictly prohibited in the Tyrol region, especially in protected forest areas and alpine meadows. Fines are heavy and enforced by local foresters. If you wish to camp, you must use designated campsites, which are mostly located in the valley floors near towns like Gries am Brenner or Sterzing. Similarly, fishing in the alpine lakes and rivers requires a local license and the permission of the water rights holder.
Mountain Rescue Insurance: While not a legal permit, having insurance that covers mountain rescue (including helicopter evacuation) is essential. The cost of a private helicopter rescue in the Alps can exceed 5,000 Euros. Membership in the Austrian Alpine Club (ÖAV) or an equivalent national body usually includes this insurance as part of the annual fee, which is approximately 60–70 Euros.
Cross-Border Considerations: As the trail crosses from Austria into Italy at the Brenner Pass, you should carry a valid ID or passport. While both countries are part of the Schengen Area and there are rarely formal border checks for hikers, you are legally required to have identification on your person.
Precisely traced GPX for the Via Augustana, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
The region surrounding the Via Augustana is a hub for outdoor adventure and Tyrolean culture. Consider adding a few days to your itinerary to explore these options:
Alpine Weather Hazards: The primary safety concern on the Via Augustana is the weather. Conditions can change from bright sunshine to freezing rain or snow within an hour. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August. If you see dark, towering cumulus clouds forming, seek lower ground or shelter immediately. Lightning is a significant risk on ridges and open meadows.
Navigation and Terrain: While the trail is well-marked, fog and low cloud can obscure markers. Always carry a compass and know how to use it in conjunction with your map. The terrain is generally stable, but heavy rain can make limestone paths slippery and cause small rockfalls in steeper sections. Stay on the marked path to avoid disturbing unstable scree slopes.
Livestock and Wildlife: You will frequently walk through pastures containing cattle or horses. These animals are generally docile but can be protective of their young. Give them a wide berth, do not attempt to pet or feed them, and keep dogs on a short lead. If a cow charges, stay calm, do not run, and slowly move out of its path. Ticks are present in the lower forest and meadow sections; perform a daily check and know how to remove them correctly.
Emergency Numbers:
The Serles Summit: For fit hikers staying at Maria Waldrast, a sunrise ascent of the Serles (2,717 m) is a classic Tyrolean experience. Known as the "Altar of the Tyrol," the summit offers an unobstructed view of the Stubai Alps and the city of Innsbruck far below. The climb adds about 1,100 metres of elevation and requires an extra day.
Obernberger See: Even if you are just passing through, take the time to walk the full circuit of this lake. The water is a startling turquoise colour due to the limestone minerals, and the reflection of the Obernberger Tribulaun in the still morning water is one of the most photographed sights in the region.
The Roman Milestone at Gries: Near the village of Gries am Brenner, you can find a replica of a Roman milestone (the original is in a museum). It marks the distance to Augsburg and serves as a tangible link to the soldiers who marched this same path 2,000 years ago.
Mining History in Gossensass: The area around Gossensass was once a wealthy silver mining district. You can visit old adits and learn about the medieval mining techniques that once made this valley one of the richest in Europe.
The alpine environment is extremely sensitive to human impact. At high altitudes, the growing season is short, and damage to vegetation can take decades to heal. As a walker on the Via Augustana, you are a guest in a landscape that supports rare species like the Edelweiss and the Alpine Marmot.
Principles for the Via Augustana:
