For a safe hike

It is recommended to plan every tour taking into account the weather situation and the difficulty of the route and to equip yourself accordingly. Please stay on the marked paths and climbs and pay attention to the information boards on the condition of the path.
Blue: Simple hiking trails in the permanent settlement area and the adjacent forest area, which lead through flat terrain and have no steep inclines. There are no special requirements. The paths can also be walked without a hiking map.
Red: Mountain hiking trails that require some surefootedness. Steep steps, watercourses, bottlenecks and earthy troughs caused by flooding can be found on these trails. A minimum of orientation is required.
Black: Difficult mountain hikes and alpine trails that are secured with ropes, artificial steps, ladders, etc. in exposed areas. Here the hands are used to move and support balance. The path is not always clearly recognizable as such. Sometimes there are places where there is a risk of falling, scree, sloping grass, field or rugged terrain. Old snow residues can be expected under certain circumstances.

10 recommendations of the Alpine Association for safe mountain hiking

The following recommendations from the alpine associations serve to make mountain hikes as safe and enjoyable as possible.


1. Healthy in the mountains
Mountain hiking is endurance sport. The positive stress stimuli for the heart and circulation require health and a realistic self-assessment. Avoid time pressure and choose the pace so that you don't get out of breath.

2. Careful planning
Hiking maps, guide books, the internet and experts provide information about the length, difference in altitude, difficulty and the current conditions. Always adapt tours to the group. Pay particular attention to the weather report, as rain, wind and cold increase the risk of accidents.

3. Complete equipment
Adapt your equipment to the hike and make sure that your rucksack weight is low. Rain, cold and sun protection always belong in the rucksack, as well as a first aid kit and mobile phone (Euro-Noruf 112). Map or GPS support orientation.

4. Appropriate footwear
Good and comfortable hiking shoes protect and relieve the foot and improve the surefootedness! When making your choice, pay attention to a perfect fit, non-slip profile sole, waterproofness and low weight.

5. Surefootedness is the key
Falls, as a result of slipping or tripping, are the most common cause of accidents. Please note that too fast pace or fatigue greatly impair your surefootedness and concentration. By walking carefully you avoid kicking loose stones.

6. Stay on marked paths
In the pathless terrain, the risk of loss of orientation, falls and falling rocks increases. Avoid shortcuts and come back to the last known point when lost. Steep old snow fields are often underestimated and dangerous!

7. Regular breaks
Timely rest is for relaxation, enjoyment of the landscape and socializing. Eating and drinking are important to maintain performance and concentration. Isotonic drinks are ideal thirst quenchers. Muesli bars, dried fruit and cookies satisfy hunger on the way.

8. Responsibility for children
Note that variety and playful discovery are in the foreground for children. In passages where there is a risk of falling, an adult should only look after one child. Very exposed tours that require long-lasting concentration are only suitable to a limited extent for children.

9. Small groups
Small groups ensure flexibility and enable mutual help. Inform people you trust about the destination, route and return. Stay together in the group.

10. Respect for nature and the environment
To protect mountain nature: do not leave any waste behind, avoid noise, stay on the paths, do not worry wild animals or re-animals, leave plants untouched and respect protected areas. Use public transport to get there or form car pools.

(c) Austrian Alpine Association