23 High-Alpine Pilgrimage Trail to the Niederjöchl

Course: San Martino in Monte (Mountain Station, Start) ➔ St. Martiner Alpl ➔ Goldrainer Alpl ➔ Old Shepherd's Hut ➔ Weather Cross at Niederjöchl (Destination & highest point) ➔ Return via the same route ➔ San Martino

This challenging, high-alpine mountain hike takes you deep into the fascinating peaks soaring high above San Martino in Monte. Panoramic views: from the icy giants of the Ortler Group to the Ötztal Alps and the distant, jagged Dolomites. Your hike begins with a spectacular cable car ride from Laces up to San Martino in Monte (1,740 m). Directly from the mountain station (where the unique pilgrimage church is located), follow trail No. 6/8 uphill until you reach the idyllic St. Martiner Alpl (2,000 m). From the pasture, continue on the initially moderately steep trail No. 6, heading northwest through the light forest until you reach the lonely Goldrainer Alpl (2,400 m, unmanaged) just above the tree line. From the Goldrainer Alpl, the character of the tour shifts: the path becomes increasingly steep and exposed, winding in numerous switchbacks heading west through rugged, partly precipitous terrain. You will pass an old shepherd's hut (2,630 m) and shortly after reach the impressive weather cross at the Niederjöchl pass (2,664 m). Up here, a magnificent 360-degree view awaits you. Descend along the same route back to San Martino.