Walking in Austria. Kev Reynolds

walks fall into three categories, graded 1–3, with the highest grade reserved for the more challenging routes. This grading system is purely subjective, but is offered to provide a rough idea of what to expect. Grade 1 walks are fairly modest and likely to appeal to most active members of the family, while the majority of routes are graded 2–3, largely because of the nature of the landscape which can be pretty challenging. The grading of walks is not an exact science and each category covers a fairly wide spectrum. Inevitably there will be overlaps and variations and, no doubt, a few anomalies which may be disputed by users, but they are offered in good faith and as a rough guide only.

       Grade 1: Suitable for family outings; mostly short distances or walks along gently graded paths or tracks with little height gain.

       Grade 2: Moderate walking, usually on clear footpaths with a reasonable amount of height gain. Walkers should be adequately shod and equipped.

       Grade 3: More strenuous routes on sometimes rough or unclear paths. Some modest scrambling may be required, or the use of ladders, fixed ropes or cables as support. A ‘head for heights’ may be called for. On some of these routes there will be passes to cross, screes to tackle, or a minor summit to reach. In short, true alpine walking. There will be steep ascents and descents, some exposed sections, and fairly long distances involved. Walkers attempting these should be ‘mountain fit’ and well equipped.

      Waymarking

      Most of the paths adopted by these routes are well maintained, signed and waymarked. These waymarks (invariably red and white bars) may be found on rocks, trees, fenceposts or other immovable wayside objects. Some of the trails are colour coded with additional numbers or letters, and this information will usually be translated onto relevant maps and signposts.

      Signposts will be found at significant points (usually major path junctions) along the way, indicating not only the path’s destination, but an estimate of the time it will take to get there with Std being an abbreviation of Stunden (hours). On occasion you may come upon a sign which says Nur für Geübte, which means only for the experienced – an indication that the route ahead could be difficult, exposed, or safeguarded with fixed ropes, chains or ladders.

      Main photo: Trail signing is good almost everywhere Inset photos (top to bottom): Hut keepers sometimes add direction markers on rocks along the trail; Be warned that route numbers added to waymarks do not always correspond with numbers on maps; Wilder-Kaiser-Steig waymark (Kaisergebirge, Routes 66 and 68); Waymarks below Tör (Dachsteingebirge, Routes 76, 78 and 79)

      Fixed cables on the Jubilaumssteig (Kaisergebirge, Route 64)

      Sections of route marked Klettersteig (the German equivalent of Italy’s famed via ferrata) often involve sustained exposure and a concentration of metal ladders, rungs and fixed ropes. To attempt such routes one needs to have scrambling experience and specialised equipment such as harnesses, slings and karabiners. A few examples of such routes are described in this guide – with adequate advanced warnings given.

      Rarely do described routes stray into unpathed terrain, but where they do, cairns and/or additional waymarks often guide the way. In such places it is essential to remain vigilant to avoid becoming lost – especially in poor visibility. If in doubt about the onward route, return to the last point where you were certain of your whereabouts and try again. By consulting the map at regular intervals along the walk, it should be possible to keep abreast of your position and anticipate junctions before you reach them.

      For safety’s sake never walk alone on remote trails, moraine-bank paths or glaciers. Should you prefer to walk in a group but have not made prior arrangements to join an organised walking holiday, a number of tourist authorities arrange day walks with a local guide. Enquire at the tourist office of your nearest resort.

      The rock wall of the Kuchelmooskar en route to the Plauener Hut (Zillertal Alps, Route 32)

      SAFETY CHECKLIST

       Before setting out, check the weather forecast – available from hut keepers, tourist offices and local TV channels – and be aware that all alpine regions are subject to rapidly changing conditions. Throughout the day watch for tell-tale signs and be prepared for the worst by having adequate clothing.

       Study route details beforehand, noting any particular difficulties and the time needed to complete the route. Do not overestimate your abilities, and make sure you can safely reach your destination before nightfall.

       On a full day’s walk carry food (and emergency rations such as chocolate or dried fruit), and at least one litre of liquid per person to avoid dehydration.

       Leave details of your planned itinerary and expected time of return with a responsible person. If staying in huts, enter details in the visitors’ book provided.

       Be vigilant when crossing wet rocks, scree, snow patches and mountain streams. If your route is safeguarded with fixed ropes or chains, ensure they have not worked loose before using them.

       Do not stray onto glaciers unless you are with experienced companions and have the necessary equipment and knowledge to deal with crevasse rescue. Keep away from icefalls and hanging glaciers.

       Avoid dislodging stones onto others below.

       Never be reluctant to turn back in the face of deteriorating weather or if the route becomes hazardous. In the event of your being unable to reach your expected destination, try to send a message to avoid the rescue services being called out.

       Carry map and compass (and GPS if you have one) – and know how to use them.

       Always carry some first aid equipment, as well as a whistle and torch for use in emergencies.

       Make a note of the International Mountain Distress Signal printed at the front of this book: six blasts on a whistle (and flashes with a torch after dark) spaced evenly for one minute, followed by a minute’s silence. Repeat until an answer is received and your position located. The response is three signals followed by a minute’s pause.

       Be insured against accidents – rescue and subsequent medical treatment. AAC membership (see above) carries automatic insurance for this. Don’t forget to take your European Health Insurance (EHI) card with you to obtain medical treatment on the same terms as native Austrians.

       Finally, please help keep the mountains and their valleys litter-free.

Equipment

      Experienced hillwalkers will no doubt have their own preferences in regard to clothing and equipment, but the following list is offered to newcomers to the Alps. Some items will clearly not be needed if you envisage tackling only valley routes.

      Clothing

       Walking boots – must be comfortable, a good fit, have ankle support and plenty of grip in the soles

       Trainers or similar for wear in huts, hotels and villages

       Wind- and water-proof jacket and overtrousers

       Warm hat and sunhat

       Gloves

       Fleece or sweater

       Shirts – 2 or 3 for a fortnight’s holiday

       Warm trousers, slacks or breeches – jeans are not recommended (cold when wet and difficult to dry)

       Long woollen socks

       Underwear

      Miscellaneous

       Rucksack – with waterproof liner and/or cover

       Sheet sleeping