Walking in St. Johann

Walking Trails:
200km+

Terrain:
Diverse terrain from rolling hills and wide valleys to dramatic peaks

St. Johann at a glance

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Travel included to St. Johann

Depart on: Saturday or Wednesday

Fly into: Salzburg or Innsbruck

Transfer time: approx. 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours by coach

Included in your walking holiday to St. Johann

  • Option to join Inghams Guided Walks in Kitzbühel from 26 May - 12 Sep 25 (subject to availability)

  • On holiday support and tailored advice from our Destination Experts based in Austria
  • Inghams Digital Resort Guide with things to do, walks and useful information on holiday

  • Flights from the UK, transfers and accommodation

Walking in St. Johann

Walks and hikes

Walking Trails:
200km+
Terrain:
Diverse terrain from rolling hills and wide valleys to dramatic peaks

St. Johann is set in a wide and beautiful valley between the majestic Wilder Kaiser massif and the Kitzbüheler Horn. There are many additional side valleys to explore and over 200 kilometres of marked hiking paths and nine themed walking trails. St. Johann is also the start of Austria’s famous ‘Eagles Way’ long distance walking trail from East to West Tyrol. Terrain varies from meadow walks and riverside trails to the higher peaks of the Harschbichl gondola and Wilder Kaiser mountains. Excellent bus and train links also make it easy to explore the neighbouring Kitzbühel, Ellmau and Söll walking areas.

St. Johann Tourist Office runs a free programme of guided walks that changes weekly, plus hiking booklets and stamps for those completing stages of the ‘Eagles Way'.

There are two full-day walks per week in Kitzbühel, just for Inghams guests and when you stay in St. Johann it's easy for you to join. Join a small group and be led by a professional walking guide on some of their favourite trails. It’s a great way to get to know the area. The walks in Kitzbühel are run by David Hechl.

In Summer 25, they're available from 26 May - 12 Sep. Walks will run on Mondays and either Thursdays or Fridays - please see the dates by the walk descriptions below. You can add the walks onto your holiday at the time of booking, through My Booking or by giving us a call.

Please note: the walks all take place in or around Kitzbühel, and you'll need to make your own way to and from the starting point (usually by train), which will be advised by your Destination Expert.  

Spaces are limited, so early booking is recommended. Walks depend on weather, guide availability, and group size, and routes may change. Details are provided on arrival, and some may include a small local transport fee. Walks are not suitable for under 12s (under 18s must be with an adult). Please ensure the walk is right for you, our guides have the final say. See our booking conditions for full details. 

Our guided walks in Kitzbühel

A beautiful, low-level circular route through a hilly, forested area that was heavily influenced by the Ice Age. Pass pretty, traditional farmhouses and meadows, and enjoy stunning views of the local area. At the end, there's the option for a dip in the picturesque Schwarzsee lake - the warmest swimming lake in the area.

  • Grade: easy - moderate (basic fitness required)
  • Distance: 15km
  • Walking time: approx. 5 hours
  • Ascent/Descent: 480m
  • Terrain: Asphalt, dirt tracks, natural trails
  • Useful information: There will be a lunch stop at the Tischlerwirt (payable locally)

In Summer 25, this walk will run on: 26 May, 16 Jun, 7 Jul, 28 Jul, 18 Aug and 8 Sep

Enjoy beautiful views on this circular walk - an ascent of the more pleasant kind, weaves up from the valley offering spectacular views over the Achental. At the top, you're rewarded with the Wildalm Hut where you'll stop for refreshments with an impressive mountain backdrop.

  • Grade: moderate - challenging (basic fitness and sure-footedness required)
  • Distance: 10.2km
  • Walking time: approx. 5.5 hours
  • Ascent/Descent: 660m
  • Terrain: Forest tracks, natural trails
  • Useful information: This walk requires a local taxi which is approx. €10pp each way. There will be a lunch stop at the Wildalm Hut (payable locally).

In Summer 25, this walk will run on: 30 May, 20 Jun, 10 Jul, 1 Aug, 21 Aug, 12 Sep

Summit-baggers will love this walk. It starts in Kirchberg and heads up mainly through the shady forest then along the ridge to the peak of the Rauher Kopf - the view from here is really special. After a summit break, it's on to the Ruetzen snack station for refreshments and then down to the pretty town of Kirchberg for a train back.

  • Grade: moderate - challenging (basic fitness and sure-footedness required)
  • Distance: 11.5km
  • Walking time: approx. 5.5 hours
  • Ascent/Descent: 530m ascent and 750m descent
  • Terrain: Forest tracks, natural trails
  • Useful information: This walk requires a local taxi which is approx. €10pp and a local train which is approx. €2.70pp. There is a lunch stop at the Ruetzen snack station (payable locally).

In Summer 25, this walk will run on: 6 Jun, 27 Jun, 18 Jul, 8 Aug, 29 Aug

The name gives the game away on this walk - you'll pass five picturesque chapels - but it's also a scenic walk for the non-believers. Weaving along the valley, in and out of the forest, it's an enjoyable walk that can be shortened at any time by taxi if necessary. Of course, there'll be a refreshment stop on route too, at the pretty Hallerwirt and the final highlight is the Schleier waterfall.

  • Grade: easy - moderate (basic fitness required)
  • Distance: 15km
  • Walking time: approx. 5.5 hours
  • Ascent/Descent: 570m ascent and 750m descent
  • Terrain: Forest tracks, natural trails
  • Useful information: This walk requires a local bus which is payable locally. There will be a lunch stop at the Hallerwirt (payable locally).

In Summer 25, this walk will run on: 2 Jun, 23 Jun, 14 Jul, 4 Aug, 25 Aug

First the Hornbahn lift does the brunt of the uphill leg-work and you're rewarded with spectacular views right from the start. You follow the scenic Gams Trail to the Lämmerbichlalm where there's chance for a tea break before a beautiful climb up towards the Hochetzkogel for a panoramic view. The Bichlalm Hut offers lunch in the dreamiest setting and then you descend to Sonnbergstube (you can shorten the descent by taking the chairlift part way) and then you'll get a taxi back to Kitzbühel.

  • Grade: moderate - challenging (good fitness and sure-footedness required)
  • Distance: 11.5km
  • Walking time: approx. 5 hours
  • Ascent/Descent: 380m ascent and 880m descent
  • Terrain: Forest tracks, natural trails
  • Useful information: This walk requires ascent by gondola (payable locally - approx. €24.50pp or €29.50pp for a combined ticket with the optional chairlift) and return by taxi (payable locally - approx. €8pp). There will be a stop for a tea break and lunch which are both payable locally.

In Summer 25, this walk will run on: 13 Jun, 4 Jul, 25 Jul, 15 Aug, 5 Sep

Experience summer on the iconic Streif - one of the most challenging downhill ski runs on the World Cup Ski Calendar. On this walk, you'll enjoy some beautiful views over Kitzbühel towards the Wilder Kaiser mountains, as well as seeing some of the famous sections of the ski run including the finishing jump. You'll pass some picturesque traditional farms along the way too, and lunch is at the Seidlalm which offers spectacular views.

  • Grade: moderate (basic fitness and sure-footedness required)
  • Distance: 9.5km
  • Walking time: approx. 5 hours
  • Ascent/Descent: 625m
  • Terrain: Forest tracks, natural trails
  • Useful information: There will be a stop at the Seidlalm (lunch not included)

In Summer 25, this walk will run on: 10 Jun, 30 Jun, 21 Jul, 11 Aug, 1 Sep

Our favourite self-guided walks in St. Johann

  • Grade: Easy 
  • Distance: 7.2 km 
  • Walking time: 2 hours 
  • Terrain: Tarmac and gravel trails 

Follow the Old Roman Way on this easy walk from Oberndorf to Kitzbühel. The path takes you through peaceful fields and past historic landmarks like the Hoferbauer farm, which dates back to 1097. You’ll also have the option to stop at the Hinteroberau farmhouse museum to learn more about the area’s past. The trail is mostly flat, with well-maintained paths that make for a relaxing walk through rolling hills and wide-open fields. 

  • Grade: Moderate 
  • Distance: 8.7 km 
  • Walking time: 3 hours 
  • Terrain: Tarmac, gravel, forest path, narrow rooted ways, steps of steel 

This trail climbs steadily through winding forest paths and rugged rocky sections as it leads towards the Eifersbacher Waterfall. As you approach the falls, the sound of the water grows louder. Steel steps help you get closer to the waterfall, offering a better view of the cascading water. The loop continues through more woodland, where you can pause for a break at the Grander Schupf Inn before finishing the walk. 

St.Johann Kitzbueheler Horn From Harschbichl Copyright Mirja Geh Photography
  • Grade: Moderate–Challenging 
  • Distance: 5 km 
  • Walking time: 3 hours 
  • Terrain: Rough terrain with partially exposed sections with handholds/cables 

The Kitzbüheler Horn hike is a short but challenging climb with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Starting from the Harschbichl gondola station, the trail ascends steeply through sweeping meadows and over craggy rocks. Some exposed sections require handholds and cables, adding a sense of adventure. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Wilder Kaiser and Leoganger Steinberge. The descent offers more striking vistas, providing a fulfilling experience for those seeking a mountain challenge without a lengthy trek. 

Discover St. Johann

  • Embrace the local culture at the lively Wednesday village evening
  • Take the Harschbichlbahn lift for fantastic views, walks and the high ropes park
  • Walk through the spectacular Griesbachklamm gorge

This charming little market town set in the wide sunny valley close to Kitzbühel is full of Austrian traditions with a Baroque twin spire church and pretty town square filled with quaint cafés that play host to regular festivals and celebrations throughout the summer. There are plenty of shops and restaurants - guests enjoy the ‘Huber Bräu’ local Brewery with its very own tower, for traditional cuisine and views. The town is surrounded by miles of gentle walking and cycling paths, including riverside and valley walks to Kitzbühel, as well as more challenging routes up to higher peaks - some accessible by gondola. The bus and train links are excellent and its central location between Innsbruck and Salzburg make it a great base for sightseeing.

Stroll past traditional Austrian buildings, painted in light colours and intricate decorative murals and bursting with colourful flower baskets. With a central square and open spaces to enjoy a break, St. Johann can be both a lively and peaceful atmosphere. It's particularly lovely when the Wednesday 'Lang & Klang' village evening brings the town to life, or when the locals embrace a festival.

St. Johann is the perfect spot to forget the stresses of everyday life and really get connected with nature - the mountains of the Wilder Kaiser and Kitzbühel Alps are right on your doorstep.

Whether it be by foot or bicycle, exploring the region comes at ease with over 200 kilometres of marked hiking and biking paths in St. Johann. Ride along the base of the Wilder Kaiser mountains to Going and Ellmau, or take to the mountain bike paths on the Kitzbüheler Horn. E-bike south to Oberndorf in Tirol one day, then north to Kirchdorf in Tirol the next. For wilderness walks and scenic hikes, many trails and challenges start in and around the centre of St. Johann, like the Eifersbach Waterfall - a beautiful eight-kilometre circular route.

Families are spoilt for choice with endless nearby activities including adventure playgrounds, bathing lakes, high-rope courses and themed trails. Let off steam at the mountain playgrounds by jumping on trampolines or climbing over giant wooden play parks. The Badesee bathing lake at nearby Going is perfect for a chilled day and has plenty to keep the kids entertained with slides, water features and plenty of grass space. 

Or, hop on a local bus to explore Ellmi's Magic World at the top of the Ellmau lift, or the Hexenwasser ('Witches Water') play park in Söll. If the weather's not playing ball, the Kaiserbad indoor pool and climbing wall near Ellmau is a great option too.

Unlock a world of wonder with a bundle of neighbouring villages to St. Johann. Being part of the Kitzbühel Alps, you can hop on a bus, train or cable car to enhance your stay in one of Europe's best mountain ranges. With the St. Johann guest card included, exploration, relaxation and fitness come at a discounted rate – ideal for lowering those holiday expenses.

St. Johann has a great network of public transport and lifts that make getting around the area really easy.

Lifts

There are plenty of lifts in and around the region for you to access hiking routes from. Some of the most relevant ones are below, however if you purchase the Kitzbüheler Alpen Summer Card you have access to up to 39 in total.

  • Harschbichlbahn, St Johann (normally open 23 May - 27 Oct)
  • A1 Hahnenhammbahn, Kitzbühel (normally open 7 Jun - 2 Nov)
  • B1 Fleckalmbahn, Kirchberg (normally open 29 May - 1 Jun and 7 Jun - 12 Oct)
  • E1 Gaisberg, Kirchberg (normally open 10 May - 26 Oct)
  • G8/9 Panoramabahn 1 and 2, Pass Thurn (normally open 19 Jun - 12 Oct)
  • H11 Bichlalm, Aurach (normally open 14 Jun - 28 Sept)
  • H1/2 Hornbahn 1 and 2, Kitzbühel (normally open 10 May – 12 Oct)
  • H3 Hornbahn 3, Kitzbühel (normally open 10 May - 12 Oct)
  • B4 Sonnenrast, Kitzbühel (normally open 14 Jun - 12 Oct)

You can also use your included St. Johann Guest Card to receive discounts on certain cable car tickets.

Subject to change.

Train

You can use your included St. Johann Guest Card to access train services from Kirchbichl to Hochfilzen free of charge – allowing you access to lots of areas with various hiking routes, such as on the Wilder Kaiser and many more mountain ranges.

Buses

The bus service in this area is exceptional, with travel being free of charge as part of your included St. Johann Guest Card.

Your Guest Card - St. Johann Card is given to you on arrival at your hotel. The guest card includes local train travel, one free return journey on the Harschbichlbahn cable car, and further discounts with bonus partners.

Kitzbüheler Alpen Summer Card - buy locally | from €120.00 - 6 days | please present your guest card for the reduced rate.

Consecutive days only. Other durations are available.

The Summer Card includes up to 39 lifts in the region including the following lifts in the St. Johann and Kitzbühel area plus discounts on various bonus partners throughout the region.

  • Harschbichlbahn, St Johann
  • A1 Hahnenhammbahn, Kitzbühel
  • B1 Fleckalmbahn, Kirchberg
  • E1 Gaisberg, Kirchberg
  • G8/9 Panoramabahn 1 and 2, Pass Thurn
  • H11 Bichlalm, Aurach
  • H1/2 Hornbahn 1 and 2, Kitzbühel
  • H3 Hornbahn 3, Kitzbühel
  • B4 Sonnenrast, Kitzbühel

In addition to these lifts, you also have access to operating lifts in St Johann in Tirol, Wildschönau, Alpbachtal, Steinplatte Waidring, Pillersee, Lofer, Going, Ellmau, Scheffau, Söll, Brixen, Westendorf, Hopfgarten, Itter, and Kufstein, making the pass excellent value for money.

Lift pass inclusions, prices and lift opening times are subject to change.

Travel to St. Johann

Travel by air

Flights to Innsbruck and Salzburg depart on Saturdays or Wednesdays between 24 May - 13 Sep 25 and 23 May - 19 Sep 26

Fly to Salzburg from:

  • London Gatwick (Wednesday or Saturday), Manchester (Saturday only), Birmingham (Saturday only), Newcastle (Saturday only) or Glasgow (Saturday only)

Fly to Innsbruck from:

  • London Gatwick (Wednesday or Saturday), Manchester (Saturday only), Birmingham (Saturday only) or Edinburgh (Saturday only)

Transfer time:

  • Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes by coach from Salzburg
  • Approx. 2 hours by coach from Innsbruck

Please be aware transfer times may vary depending on weather conditions and volume of traffic, especially during peak season.

Things to do in St. Johann

This spectacular journey takes you over the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, an incredible feat of engineering with stunning views. From the Franz-Josef's Höhe you'll see the Pasterze glacier and maybe catch a glimpse of 3,798-metre summit of the Grossglockner. Keep a look out for the wild marmots and Ibex too - they love the high alpine conditions. You can visit the free museums and exhibitions to learn about the National Park or enjoy a walk round the area and a tasty Austrian mountain meal.

Departs: Thursdays

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Salzburg is a city full of culture, history and music. Visit Mozart’s birthplace, enjoy the view from the Hohensalzburg Fortress, or wander the famous Getreidegasse shopping street. Immerse yourself in history as you explore the medieval Old Town, discover museums and Baroque churches or visit the Salzburg Residenz Palace - the DomQuartier. There is an optional guided walking tour which is a great way to see more of the city (payable locally, approx. €12 per person).

Departs: Wednesdays

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

There's a few options for you to choose from on this interesting trip to Berchtesgaden. Spend the day discovering the pretty Bavarian town of Berchtesgaden itself, or choose one of the optional extras that you can add on to your day (difference payable locally).

The most famous is the Kehlsteinhaus (Eagle's Nest). Explore the historic building and surrounding area, with spectacular views on a clear day over the King's Lake. The house is famous for being Nazi-constructed and was used for government and social meetings by Hitler and the Nazi Party. Alternatively, head underground to see the Salt Mines. A network of tunnels and slides take you on an underground adventure discovering this once very important industry (optional add-ons are payable locally - Eagle's Nest approx. €31.90 per person, Salt Mines approx. €25.50 per person).

Departs: Tuesdays

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

St.Johann Mountain Carting

Ascending nearly 1,000 metres, the cable car quickly whisks you up the mountain ready for a world of adventures. Breaking the journey up, the mid-station is not to be passed by without a visit to the Hornpark climbing world, or Harschbichl Trail, fantastic for eager mountain bikers. For a thrilling experience, you can hire a mountain cart to make the descent more fun. Enjoy one free return journey on the Harschbichlbahn which is included in your guest card.

Image: (copyright Mirja Geh Photography)

Regular annual festivals and events bring St. Johann to life throughout the summer with live music, beer tents, food stalls and entertainment:

  • Weekly farmers’ market in Town square
  • Brass band concerts in Town square
  • Excellent weekly Tyrolean evening (pay locally)
  • Vintage car rally in Kitzbühel (early Jun)
  • Billy goat mountain top festival (mid Jul)
  • Summer Solstice bonfire night (mid Jun)
  • Jaggas’n town fair (mid Jul)

Beginner, expert, or keen to get into a new hobby? With the mountains right behind you, the golf courses in Kitzbühel or at Lärchenhof are the ideal place to either unwind or compete. Remember, practice makes perfect, so the driving range is just the place for a course 'warm-up'.

Going Badesee Lake Austria Copyright TVB Wilder Kaiser Martin Lifka Photography E.U

Children love nothing more than a day at the Panoramabad waterpark. Grab an inflatable boat and speed your way down the 38-metre turbo slide – there are even light displays inside the tube. There is also another wide slide, and a 100-metre tube slide, perfect for little ones to go again-and-again.

Cool off in the St. Johann outdoor pool or head to the Badesee bathing lake at nearby Going – surrounded by beautiful scenery, and extremely refreshing on a hot summer's day. Fresh water is supplied to the man-made lake, complimenting the clean mountain air that surrounds you. Relax on the spacious lawn to recharge for another day of mountain fitness - these spots are great for kids too.

Image: (copyright TVB Wilder Kaiser Martin Lifka Photography E.U)

St.Johann Hornpark Highropes Copyright Mirja Geh Photography

Head to Hornpark treetop adventure in St. Johann, the Kitzbüheler Alps biggest high ropes course. With 106 obstacles, 11 different courses and immaculate views of the Wilder Kaiser, children will create forever-lasting memories here. Take the flying fox zip line over the Angereralm mountain lake, or mountain cart down to the bottom lift station – one for the thrill-seekers.

Image: (copyright Mirja Geh Photography)

Rattenberg centre

Discover some of the area's best kept secrets on this trip which combines three unique destinations. Our first 'treasure' is Kufstein, located on the banks of the River Inn. You'll have time to explore and admire this border town with its dominating Fortress. Next, you're off to the beautiful Thiersee lake, surrounded by forests and steeped in folklore. Our final destination is Rattenberg, rich in history and famous for Kisslinger glass - watch a glass-blowing demonstration and explore the picturesque streets of this tiny city.

Departs: Fridays

We act at all times as a selling agent for the suppliers. All excursions require minimum numbers to run and are subject to change. Some excursions may not be available to pre-book in low season but may be available to book locally subject to numbers. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please see our terms & conditions.

Image: Rattenberg centre (copyright: Alpbachtal Tourismus Rattenberg)

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