Karnischer Höhenweg

Route overview

The Karnischer Höhenweg follows the ridgeline of the Carnic Alps along much of the historic Austro-Italian border in Carinthia, tracing terrain that was a front line of mountain warfare during the First World War. Many sections pass remnants of wartime fortifications, trenches and via ferrata routes originally built for military purposes. The trail runs largely at or above the treeline, connecting a series of mountain refuges on both the Austrian and Italian sides of the border, with expansive views over the Dolomites to the south and the Gailtal valley to the north. Most hikers complete the route over ten to twelve days, and several sections require via ferrata equipment given the historic military-built passages along the ridge.

Trail facts

Country

Austria / Italy

Region

Carnic Alps

Distance

c. 150 km

Typical duration

10–12 days

Difficulty

Hard

Elevation gain

c. 7,500 m cumulative

Best season

July–September

Trail type

Point-to-point

Access and logistics

Bookings

Refuges should be booked ahead in July and August.

Safety context

Several sections use historic via ferrata built during wartime and require appropriate equipment and experience. Exposed ridge walking is affected by wind and weather.

Some of the wartime-era via ferrata infrastructure is aged, and current condition should be checked with local refuge keepers before attempting exposed sections.

Highlights

First World War fortification remnants Carnic Alps ridgeline views of the Dolomites Historic military via ferrata sections Cross-border refuge network

Why find a buddy

Ridge walking along a historic, partly technical border trail is safer shared with a partner, particularly on the older via ferrata sections.

Primary source

Open the primary route source.

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