Lavanttal High Trail - Overall

The Lavanttal High Trail leads from Lavamünd northwards over the Kleinalpl to the Großer Speikkogel. At 2140 meters, it is the highest summit of the Lavanttal High Trail. It then continues to the Weinebene and over the Hebalm to the Packsattel. At the Peterer Riegel, it descends back into the valley to Reichenfels. Afterwards, from the market town, it ascends to the Feldalm. From here, it continues southwards to the hiking and ski area Klippitztörl.
The next section of the route leads the hiker onto the ridge of the Saualpe and offers an unforgettable hiking experience with its magnificent panorama. The path goes over the Forstalpe and the Gertrusk to the Ladinger Spitz, which at 2079 meters above sea level is the highest point of the Saualpe. Then it leads to the Wolfsberger Hut, over the Kostmannkogel to the mountain village of St. Leonhard an der Saualpe, and up to the Griffner Berg. The final section of the Lavanttal High Trail leads over the St. Pauler Berge back to Lavamünd.

Packing list - Multi-day hike

10 recommendations from the Austrian Alpine Association (ÖAV)

As a nature sport, mountain hiking offers great opportunities for health, community, and experience. The following recommendations from alpine clubs aim to make mountain hikes as safe and enjoyable as possible.

1. Healthy into the mountains

Mountain hiking is endurance sports. The positive strain on heart and circulation requires good health and realistic self-assessment. Avoid time pressure and choose a pace so that no one in the group is out of breath.

2. Careful planning

Hiking maps, guide literature, internet, and experts provide information about length, elevation difference, difficulty, and current conditions. Always tailor tours to the group! Pay special attention to the weather forecast, as rain, wind, and cold increase accident risks.

3. Complete equipment

Adjust your equipment to your activity and pay attention to a light backpack weight. Rain, cold, and sun protection should always be in the backpack, as well as first aid kit and mobile phone (European emergency number 112). Maps or GPS support orientation.

4. Suitable footwear

Good hiking boots protect and relieve the foot and improve surefootedness! Pay attention to perfect fit, slip-resistant soles, waterproofing, and light weight.

5. Surefootedness is key

Falls due to slipping or tripping are the most frequent cause of accidents! Note that too high a pace or fatigue severely impairs surefootedness and concentration. Beware of falling rocks: careful walking prevents loosening stones.

6. Stay on marked trails

In trailless terrain, the risk of losing orientation, falling, and falling rocks increases. Avoid shortcuts and return to the last known point if you get off the path. Often underestimated and very dangerous: steep old snowfields!

7. Regular breaks

Timely rest serves recovery, enjoyment of the landscape, and sociability. Eating and drinking are necessary to maintain performance and concentration. Isotonic drinks are ideal thirst quenchers. Muesli bars, dried fruit, and biscuits satisfy hunger on the way.

8. Responsibility for children

Note that variety and playful discovery are central for children! In sections with fall risk, only one adult can supervise one child. Very exposed routes requiring long concentration are not suitable for children.

9. Small groups

Small groups ensure flexibility and allow mutual help. Inform trusted persons about destination, route, and return. Stay together as a group. Beware of solo hikers: even small incidents can lead to serious emergencies.

10. Respect nature and environment

To protect mountain nature: Do not leave waste, avoid noise, stay on paths, do not disturb wild and grazing animals, leave plants untouched, and respect protected areas. Use public transport or form car pools for travel.

Link to the nine stages of the Lavanttal High Trail:

Information about the region:

region-lavanttal

Information about the tour:

alpine association section Wolfsberg

More info about Carinthia’s paradise at Lavanttal holiday region.