Erlanger Hütte: A High-Alpine Haven

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Experience Tyrolean hospitality at this high-alpine hut near Wettersee lake, a perfect base for exploring the Ötztal Alps.

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Erlanger Hütte

Nestled in the Ötztal Alps near the Wettersee lake, the Erlanger Hütte is a Category I mountain hut offering hikers a traditional Tyrolean experience since 1931. With stunning views and hearty cuisine, it's a perfect base for exploring the surrounding peaks.

A brief summary to Erlanger Hütte

Umhausen, 6441, AT
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Local tips

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season. Contact Christian and Anita Rimml, the hutkeepers, in advance.
The hut is open from late June to mid-September, depending on snow conditions.
A hut sleeping bag is required for overnight stays. You can purchase one at the hut or in mountain sports shops.
Consider shortening your hike by taking an alpine taxi to Vordere Leierstalalm or Gehsteigalm.

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Getting There

Walking

Most hikers approach the Erlanger Hütte from Umhausen. From the car park near the Fundus bridge in Umhausen-Neudorf, follow the broad forest trail towards Vordere Leierstalalm. After approximately 2.5 hours, you'll reach Vordere Leierstalalm. Continue for another 700m on the road before turning left onto the hiking trail. The trail ascends through steeper terrain to the hut. The entire hike from Umhausen takes about 5 hours.
Taxi

To shorten the approach, take a taxi from Umhausen to Vordere Leierstalalm or Gehsteigalm. From Vordere Leierstalalm, the hike to the Erlanger Hütte takes approximately 2.5 hours. From Gehsteigalm, the hike is about 3 hours. Taxi Scharfetter operates in the area; call +43 (0) 5255 5858. Expect to pay around €60-€80 for a taxi from Umhausen to either Alm, prices may vary.

Discover more about Erlanger Hütte

The Erlanger Hütte, a charming mountain refuge in the Ötztal Alps, has been welcoming hikers and mountaineers since its construction in 1930-31 by the Erlangen section of the German Alpine Club. Situated at an elevation of 2,541 meters (8,337 feet) near the picturesque Wettersee lake, the hut provides a tranquil escape with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including Wildgrat, Fundusfeiler and Kreuzjoch.The hut's history is intertwined with the town of Umhausen, which has been a partner municipality of Erlangen since 2006. The Erlanger Hütte is a Category I refuge of the German Alpine Club and has been awarded the Environmental Seal of Quality for Alpine Huts since 2000. It typically opens from late June to mid-September, depending on snow conditions.Inside, visitors will find a cozy atmosphere with traditional decor, including a wood-fired stove and a welcoming wooden parlor. The hut offers 8 beds and 40 dormitory spaces. The hut's cuisine is a highlight, with a focus on regional Tyrolean dishes, including lamb roast and wild goat ragout. The hut is a member of the DAV campaign "Taste of the Mountains", committed to regional and sustainable practices.The Erlanger Hütte serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding mountains. Popular peak tours include Wildgrat (2,974 m), Fundusfeiler (3,079 m), and Kreuzjoch (2,767 m). The hut is also a stop on the Central Alps Trail and Tours 1 and 3 of the "Pitztaler Runde".