„Are you climbing this mountain for the world to see you, or to see the world?"
A question that answers itself on the Arlberg Trail. Because here it's not about likes at the summit, but about the view that only opens up once you've earned it, step by step. These are exactly the real moments you want to capture and share — not because they're staged, but because they're worth telling.
The Long-Distance Hiking Summer of Your Life: 6 Weeks Across Austria
The previous „Wandersommer deines Lebens" (Hiking Summer of Your Life) is getting a new format in 2026: the „Weitwandersommer deines Lebens" (Long-Distance Hiking Summer of Your Life). For the first time, brand ambassadors will be exploring some of Austria's most beautiful long-distance trails, sharing authentic insights into their journeys along the way. Lech Zürs is also on board – the Arlberg Trail reveals a truly distinctive side of the Arlberg.
It all begins in Lech Zürs am Arlberg: this is where this year's route starts, between towering peaks and wide alpine meadows. Alena and Paula bring exactly the right amount of adventurous spirit — two experienced mountain athletes for whom this summer is all about long-distance hiking. The two lace up their hiking boots, take on the Arlberg Trail, and let their community share in every step.
The Arlberg Trail
Stage 1: St. Anton – Stuben
(demanding variant)
The opening stage delivers the full contrast program right away: lush alpine meadows where cowbells softly chime in the wind, quiet moorland, and impressive mountain passes meet the sporty, adventurous spirit of St. Anton. Passing crystal-clear mountain lakes that mirror the peaks, the trail leads step by step into the alpine calm of Stuben. Even on this first day, Alena and Paula have to stop more than once — not just because of the elevation gain, but because a new photo opportunity appears around every ridge. The perfect start: challenging enough to clear your head, and beautiful enough to stay in your memory for a long time.
Day 2: Stuben – Lech
(demanding variant)
The second day climbs up into the high-alpine world around the Flexen Pass, where rock juts sharply out of green slopes and the wind sweeps across open ridges. Alpine panoramic paths alternate with sparkling mountain lakes, as the Arlberg shows its rawest, most authentic side. Mountain air, sweeping views, genuine alpine feeling — for Alena and Paula, clearly the day with the most photo stops. Arrival in Lech comes in the golden light of evening, with tired legs and a memory card full to the brim.
Day 3: Lech – St. Anton
(demanding variant)
The final stage is the most varied of the entire trail. Scenic high-altitude paths, mysterious moorland shrouded in morning mist, and spectacular panoramas — here the mountain worlds of Vorarlberg and Tyrol merge into one last, unforgettable image. At the end of this third day, with dust on their boots and the sun hanging low over the peaks, Alena and Paula carry with them a deep sense of fulfillment.
Overnight on the Arlberg Trail: Alpine Freedom with Comfort
What makes the Arlberg Trail so special is exactly this combination: intense mountain days without having to give up a warm bed and hearty cuisine. Instead of a hut dormitory, a cozy hotel room awaits in the valley each evening — the perfect balance to demanding summit passages and plenty of elevation gain.
With the Arlberg Trail Ticket, the cable cars also become part of your adventure: one ride per cable car, valid for the entire summer season, for maximum flexibility in planning your tours. And for those who'd rather not worry about a thing, our partner ASI Reisen offers a complete package including luggage transport, accommodation, and 24/7 service — so your mind stays free for what really matters: the landscape, the rhythm of your steps, the moment at the summit.
Arlberg Trail Tips: What You Should Know Before the Tour
The trail can be started from St. Anton, Stuben, or Lech — ideally in a clockwise direction. Before setting out, it's recommended to check current trail closures and keep an eye on the weather forecast, since the Arlberg Trail moves through high-alpine terrain. Even in summer, old snowfields can affect the route.
Arlberg Trail Packages
A cozy hotel room in the valley each evening — including a warm bed and cuisine to enjoy. Those who prefer can book a complete package including luggage transport through our partner ASI Reisen.
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Arlberg Trail
For anyone who wants to get outside. For experienced mountain hikers who want to test themselves on demanding ridge sections. For leisure hikers who prefer to take it easy. For anyone looking for a long weekend with friends — or the perfect introduction to long-distance hiking. Away from the crowds, right in the heart of the Arlberg.
The Arlberg Trail runs in three stages over a total of up to 43 kilometers and 2,665 meters of elevation gain. Depending on the chosen variant and pace, it can be hiked in three to four days.
The trail can be started flexibly from St. Anton, Stuben, or Lech. A clockwise direction is recommended.
Yes. Each stage can be hiked in a demanding, moderate, or leisurely way — including with the support of the cable cars. This makes the Arlberg Trail suitable both for experienced mountain hikers and for anyone just starting out with long-distance hiking.
No. Instead of a hut dormitory, a cozy hotel room awaits in the valley each evening — including a warm bed and regional cuisine. Those who prefer can book a complete package including luggage transport through our partner ASI Reisen.
The Arlberg Trail Ticket includes one ride per cable car, valid for the entire summer season — for maximum flexibility in planning your tour.
The Arlberg Trail can be hiked in three different characters. Those seeking a challenge take the original alpine route over exposed ridges and wild summit passages. Those who want to enjoy the panoramic views without completely exhausting themselves choose the moderate variant. And those who'd rather experience the mountain world with a little help from the cable cars still pass by the most beautiful viewpoints. Three characters, one trail — you decide fresh each morning.