Vorarlberg, Austria's westernmost province, is a winter wonderland for hikers. While most visitors head straight for the ski slopes, the region offers an incredible network of cleared and marked winter hiking trails that showcase the Alps in their most magical season.
1. Lech am Arlberg — Green Ring Trail
A stunning 5.5 km loop at 1,450 metres that circles through snow-dusted meadows and forest. The trail is well-maintained and offers panoramic views of the Lechtal Alps. Allow 2–3 hours. Accessible by the Rüfikopf cable car from Lech.
2. Bregenzerwald — Georunde Rappenloch
This dramatic gorge walk near Dornbirn takes you past frozen waterfalls and ice formations. The 6 km circuit is moderate in difficulty and takes about 2 hours. Particularly stunning after a fresh snowfall when ice crystals catch the low winter sun.
3. Brandnertal — Bürserberg Panorama Trail
A gentle 4 km route with extraordinary views across the Rätikon mountain range to Switzerland. The trail passes through quiet farming hamlets where you might spot chamois on the slopes above. A Jause (snack) at the Bürserberg mountain inn is a must — try the Käsknöpfle for €12.50.
4. Kleinwalsertal — Breitachklamm
One of the deepest gorges in the Alps, Breitachklamm is spectacular in winter when massive icicles hang from the rock walls. The 2.5 km trail through the gorge is well-secured with railings and bridges. Entry costs €7.50 for adults.
5. Montafon — Silvretta Hochalpenstraße Winter Trail
When the famous alpine road closes to traffic in winter, it becomes a peaceful hiking and snowshoeing route. The 8 km out-and-back trail from Partenen climbs gently through a snow-covered valley with views of glaciated peaks. This is a full-day excursion — bring provisions.
6–10: More Hidden Gems
- Damüls — Uga Valley Trail — 3 km easy walk through Austria's snowiest village
- Bludenz — Muttersberg Panorama — Cable car access, 4 km ridge walk
- Au-Schoppernau — Diedamskopf Snowshoe Route — 6 km, moderate, incredible summit views
- Feldkirch — Wildpark Trail — 3.5 km family-friendly route past a wildlife park
- Warth — Lechweg Winter Section — 5 km section of the famous long-distance trail
Essential Gear
Winter hiking in Vorarlberg requires proper equipment: waterproof boots with good grip, layered clothing, gaiters, trekking poles, and — for routes above 1,500 metres — avalanche safety equipment. Our guided winter hikes, priced from €129 per person, include all safety equipment and an experienced local guide.
"Winter hiking is the best-kept secret in Austrian outdoor tourism. The silence of the snow-covered Alps is something everyone should experience at least once." — Thomas Steiner