Circular Hike Obergurgl->Ramolhaus (3006m)->Piccardbrücke->Zirbenweg Obergurgl

Hi all!

Get ready for an awesome adventure! We're organizing a high-demand hike that promises both physical challenges and incredible rewards in the form of breathtaking landscapes and a sense of true achievement.

Our main destination is the Ramolhaus Mountain Hut, nestled deep in the Ötztaler Alps at an impressive 3006 meters above sea level. This is one of the few high mountain huts above 3000 meters that you can reach without crossing any ice fields, and it's only open to visitors for three months each year!
On our journey, we'll also cross the Piccard Suspension Bridge, which spans the dizzying depths of the Gurgler Gorge.
Expect exhilarating vistas of snow-capped mountain chains, high mountain pastures, rocky cliffs, dramatic canyons, majestic glaciers, cascading waterfalls, and a magical Stone Pine forest.

If you have a steady foot, a head for heights, and the stamina to keep up a swift pace, gear up and join us for this challenging yet exhilarating hike!

Difficulty
Brace yourself for a tougher-than-usual challenge! This hike is no walk in the park, featuring several black mountain trail sections. While these sections are relatively challenging, most are equipped with metal cables and steps, so no actual climbing is involved.
We'll be covering a total distance of around 20 km with a significant altitude gain of approximately 1425 meters.
The route is a variation of this hike with the added visit to Ramolhaus.
Please reconsider participating if you're unsure about maintaining a swift pace or enduring the challenges mentioned above. This hike is not suitable for anyone with a crippling fear of heights or unsteady footing.

Weather
Weather for this hike is unpredictable at the moment. A decision to cancel will only be made the night before the hike if conditions are unfavorable.
High probability of rain or thunderstorms will lead to cancellation, as the rocky sections can become dangerously slippery, and high altitude increase the risk of lightning strikes.
Weather can change rapidly, so it's crucial to be prepared for anything.
Also, if the weather takes a sudden turn for the worse during our hike, we’ll play it safe and turn back before reaching the Piccard Suspension Bridge, as that’s the easier route. Safety first!

Schedule/Itinerary

• 08:30 - Start from Obergurgl ("Obergurgl Zentrum" bus stop)
• 11:30* - Arrive at Ramolhaus Mountain Hut for a quick snack/lunch
• 12:15 - Depart from the hut and head towards the close-by high viewpoint (Top-right of the featured photo)
• 12:30 - Descend towards Piccard Suspension Bridge
• 13:30* - Cross the Piccard Suspension Bridge
• 15:00* - Pass by Langtalereckhütte
• 16:15* - Arrive at Rotmoos Waterfall platform and begin the Stone Pine Forest Path (Zirbenweg Obergurgl)
• 17:00* - Return to Obergurgl

* - rough estimation

Getting There and Back (from Innsbruck)

• By car it takes a bit over 1,5 hours to Obergurgl. This means leaving Innsbruck before 07:00
• There is a train-to-bus connection. Start with the train from Innsbruck main station at 06:04, transfer to a bus at Ötztal train station at 07:00, and arrive in Obergurgl at 08:28
• For the return trip there are several bus-to-train options available, including 16:40, 17:10, 18:15, and 18:40

Preparedness Checklist

• Bring cash: Cards are accepted at the hut (there's cell reception) but better safe than sorry
• Use Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, hat, sunglasses. Much of the hike is under high solar radiation due to the altitude and thinner atmosphere
• Stay Hydrated: Bring refillable water container. Consider packing snacks
• Consider Change of Clothes: You'll likely sweat a lot
• Rain Preparedness: Pack rain gear and wear waterproof footwear
• Possible Cold Weather: At 3,000 meters, it might be chilly if the sun isn't out. Pack accordingly
• Dogs: This is not a very dog-friendly path
• Hiking Sticks: For better stability, safety and comfort, especially on uneven/steep terrain
• First-Aid Kit: For eventual minor injuries
• Pack Light: Despite all, try to pack light and avoid a bulky or heavy backpack. Excess weight might affect your performance, and bulkiness can be troublesome on narrow paths
• Insurance: Ideally you should have personal insurance that includes mountain rescue
• Your safety is your own responsibility! No one else will be liable for your well-being during this hike

We’re looking forward to this epic hike!
Cheers!