Route description
- The Spieljochbahn takes you from Fügen up to the top station at 1,860 m. In a few minutes you are at the summit cross of the Spieljoch (1,920 m).
- From there you descend to the Geolsalm (1,733 m) and continue to the Gartalm, a high pasture at 1,830 m. The hut is about 400 years old and bears traces of the silver-mining era. Cows and sheep graze the pastures, and with a bit of luck you'll see chamois, marmots or a golden eagle.
- Beyond the Gartalm the path crosses treeless terrain to the Kellerjochhütte. Watch for the waymarks on stones and rocks; in fog it is easy to lose the path here.
- The Kellerjoch (2,344 m) with its summit chapel is one of the finest viewpoints above the Inn valley. Return to the Spieljoch the same way.
Good to know
Return the same way
From the Kellerjochhütte an alpine path (Alpinsteig, AV 312) also leads to the Spieljochbahn. It is only for experienced hikers with gear, and the lift operator advises checking with the hut keeper first. Going back the same way is safer.
Keep an eye on the time
Allow 4 hours of walking plus breaks. Set off in the morning and check beforehand when the last lift goes down.
With children, take the shorter loop
For families the Spieljoch – Geolsalm loop is better (4.6 km, 205 m of climbing, about 1.5 hours). The top station also has the Erlebnisberg with a barefoot trail, rope park and playgrounds.
Food
You can eat and drink at the Geolsalm, the Gartalm and the Kellerjochhütte.
Why “hard”
Black trail: long hike with a lot of climbing and demanding terrain in places.
Trip FAQ
Is the lift free with the Zillertal Activcard?
Yes. Included with the Zillertal Activcard: Spieljochbahn up and down. Without the card it costs €39 per adult and €17 per child (children born 2011–2019), so a family of 2 + 2 saves €112.
Who is this trip suitable for?
Experienced hikers. Black trail: long hike with a lot of climbing and demanding terrain in places.
How long is the trip?
10.3 km, 795 m up and 795 m down, 4 h of walking. Route type: out and back.
How do I get the Zillertal Activcard?
A pass for the whole valley: one of ten cable cars a day, six outdoor pools, the train and buses. With the family discount, children travel free. How to get the Zillertal Activcard
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