Austria's first year-round hiking trail is located in the Alpbachtal valley.

Austria has its first certified year-round hiking trail. The Austrian Hiking Quality Seal marks the first time a hiking trail has been awarded that has been developed for a high-quality hiking experience 365 days a year and tested according to comprehensive quality criteria.

The approximately nine-kilometer-long circular hiking trail runs along the sunny side of Alpbach. The three-hour hike leads from the mountain village of Alpbach through meadows and forests, past farms, and repeatedly offers views of the village and the mountains. The trail's designation, signage, infrastructure, and year-round accessibility were among the criteria evaluated for the award. The certificate was presented to Alpbachtal Tourism at the general assembly of Austria's Hiking Villages.

“Our goal was to further develop the Middle High Trail so that guests can experience it safely and with high quality all year round. The award as Austria’s first certified year-round hiking trail confirms this approach and makes us very happy,” says Petra Cosentino, Marketing Director of Alpbachtal Tourism.

The trail connects the natural and cultural landscape of Alpbach. Hikers pass traditional mountain farms and hamlets, cross sections of forest and meadows, and experience Alpbach from diverse perspectives. At the same time, the route meets the requirements of the Austrian Hiking Seal of Approval for orientation, quality, and safety.

This award is more than just a seal of approval for a single trail; it demonstrates that the Alpbachtal tourism region is developing into an attractive year-round destination.