The Pfunderer high altitude trail

The Pfunders High Trail is a challenging multi-day hike through the Pfunders Alps. Covering around 70 kilometres and 5,600 metres of elevation gain, the route leads from Sterzing in the north to St. Georgen near Bruneck in the south. Along the way, you pass secluded valleys, alpine meadows, mountain lakes, panoramic summits and high-alpine terrain.

The route is suitable for experienced hikers with good fitness and sure-footedness. It is divided into six stages, each requiring between three and seven hours of walking. Mountain huts along the route provide places to rest and enjoy refreshments.

As the trail crosses high-alpine terrain, careful planning is essential. Book the huts in advance and check the current trail conditions before setting off.

Stages of the Pfunderer high altitude trail with Walking Times

1. Stage: Sterzing (Prati) – Simile-Mahd-Alm
• Walking time: approximately 6:00 hours
• Start in Sterzing, ascending via the Gschliessenegg and the Trenser-Joch-Hütte to the Simile-Mahd-Alm.
2. Stage: Simile-Mahd-Alm – Brixner Hütte
• Walking time: approximately 3:00 hours
• The route continues over the Sengesjöchl to the Wilder See. An optional ascent to the Wilde Kreuzspitze (3,132 m), the highest peak in the Pfunderer Alps, is possible before descending to the Brixner Hütte.
3. Stage: Brixner Hütte – Brenninger Biwak
• Walking time: approximately 5:30 hours
• From the Brixner Hütte, the trail traverses challenging terrain to reach the Brenninger Biwak.
4. Stage: Brenninger Biwak – Edelrauthütte
• Walking time: approximately 4:00 hours
• The route crosses the Rauhtaljoch and Gaisscharte, requiring surefootedness, before reaching the Edelrauthütte.
5. Stage: Edelrauthütte – Tiefrastenhütte
• Walking time: approximately 6:00 hours
• The trail continues over the Eisbruggjoch and past the Eidechsspitze to the Tiefrastenhütte near the Tiefrastensee lake.
6. Stage: Tiefrastenhütte – St. Georgen
• Walking time: approximately 7:00 hours
• The final descent leads through the Kleine Tor, Bärentöter Spitze, and the Sambock massif down to St. Georgen near Bruneck.

The stages combine challenging ascents, wide views and alpine scenery. Book the mountain huts in advance and always check the current conditions.