24 From Stelvio Pass to the Furkelhütte

Course: Stelvio Pass (Start) ➔ Garibaldi Refuge (Trailhead) ➔ Goldseeweg (No. 20) ➔ WW1 Ruins ➔ Goldsee Lake ➔ Exposed slope path ➔ Furkelhütte (Chairlift) ➔ Trafoi (Destination)

This hike is undoubtedly one of the absolute highlights of the Alps. Park your car in Trafoi and take the shuttle or public bus comfortably up to the Stelvio Pass (2,757 m). Directly at the pass, ascend a short, somewhat steep path toward the Garibaldi Refuge, where you will join the famous Goldseeweg trail (Path No. 20). The path leads you gently undulating in an easterly direction. Along the way, you will pass well-preserved ruins and fortifications from World War I. To your right, the breathtaking view of the Ortler (South Tyrol's highest peak) accompanies you. After a while, you will reach the beautiful Goldsee Lake. From Goldsee Lake, continue hiking eastward. The trail now runs as a narrow, partly quite steep, and exposed path along the mountainside. Concentration and surefootedness are required here, while the views down into the valley remain phenomenal. Finally, you will reach the beautifully situated Furkelhütte refuge (2,153 m). After a cozy break on the panoramic terrace, float relaxed back down to the valley of Trafoi on the chairlift, returning to your car.