Pack your bags for a unique adventure! The thrilling hike from Ehrwald to Seebensee, Drachensee, and Hinterer Tajakopf in the Mieminger Mountains is one of my favorite hikes of all time. This hike is only for the most adventurous hikers looking for a physical challenge and new, untouched terrain.

Why This Hike is a Must-Do

—  Epic Views: Enjoy the breathtaking panorama from Hinterer Tajakopf (2408 m).

—  Wildlife Encounters: Experience the active wildlife of marmots and wild chamois.

—  Perfect for Hot Summer Days: The emerald green and crystal clear Seebensee (1657 m) and Drachensee (1874 m) are great for a well-deserved cool-off!

This 7-hour hike is one of my favorite day trips from Munich. The spectacular views of this hike, combined with several swimming stops at Drachensee and Seebensee, make this trip unique. From the Seebensee, you have a spectacular view of the Wettersteingebirge and Germany's highest mountain, the Zugspitze.

Quick Facts about the Hike to Hinterer Tajakopf

—  Starting point: Ehrwalder Almbahn Bergstation
—  Distance: 16.4 km
—  Time Required: 7 hours
—  Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
—  Min. Height: 1498 m
—  Max. Height: 2408 m
—  Best Time to Visit: June to October

Pro Tips for Hiking to Hinterer Tajakopf

1. Hiking Clockwise is a Game-Changer: Most hikers take the easier route from Seebensee to Drachensee and miss out on the breathtaking panorama from Hinterer Tajakopf and Hinteres Tajatörl. If you hike clockwise, you can see both Drachensee and Seebensee as you descend from Hinteres Tajatörl. This route also avoids the crowds.

2. Seasonal Tips: Bring a bathing suit for refreshing dips in the Seebensee and Drachensee lakes in summer. I've also hiked here in the snow in the early spring. It added an extra layer of adventure! If you do, please be careful as it can get quite slippery!

3. Best Time to Go: Any time between June and October offers good hiking conditions. If you're an early bird like me, choose to start around 7 a.m. when the trails are less crowded.

4. What to pack: The sun can be unforgiving, especially in exposed areas. Bring sunscreen and plenty of water. There are no springs to refill, so bring extra! I also recommend good hiking boots; the terrain varies greatly, and you'll want good ankle support.

Is the Hike from Ehrwald to Hinterer Tajakopf Dog-Friendly?

My border collie, Hanna, has accompanied me on this hike several times. She loves it! She especially likes the opportunity to swim in the lakes! If you're bringing your furry friend, remember two things:

1. From the Ehrwalder Almbahn Bergstation take the gravel road to the left. Hoher Gang can be quite dangerous for dogs as there are many narrow and unsecured passages. From there follow the route until Ehrwalder Alm. Follow the trail direction “Seebensee” through the forest. Continue until you reach the junction to Gamsjägersteig and Brendlkar and continue as illustrated below to Hinteres Tajatörl.

2. Skip the last ascent from Hinteres Tajatörl to Hinterer Tajakopf - there are no safety barriers and it is not accessible for dogs.

Tour Overview: Your Epic Hike from Ehrwald to Hinterer Tajakopf, Drachensee and Seebensee

Gear up for a hike that will take you on a scenic rollercoaster ride from the Ehrwalder Almbahn Bergstation to some of Austria's most breathtaking sights. Here's your step-by-step itinerary.

Step 1: Parking and Getting Started

From the parking lot at the Ehrwalder Almbahn Bergstation, you'll walk to the Wasserfall Erlebnisweg Ehrwald and Hoher Gang. The day ticket for the parking lot is 5€. In case you are wondering, there are no free parking spaces.

Step 2: Ascent Hoher Gang

Start your adventure by climbing the Hoher Gang, a steep route through forested terrain and over rocky boulders. Some steep sections are poorly secured. You don’t need any additional climbing equipment, though. Note that this is not suitable for dogs.

Step 3: From Gamsjägersteig and Brendlkar to Hinteres Tajatörl

After reaching the top of Hoher Gang, take the Gamsjägersteig and Brendlkar trail to Hinteres Tajatörl. The terrain gets wilder from here, so sturdy hiking boots are necessary. If you are quiet enough, you might even spot some marmots along the way!

Step 4: Ascent to Hinterer Tajakopf Summit

Hinterer Tajakopf is the crown jewel of the hike. Take your time at the top, the view is unforgettable. Note that it's important that you are not afraid of heights! Otherwise, it’s better to avoid the ascent to the summit.

Step 5: Descent to Drachensee and Coburger Hütte

The descent from the Törl to Drachensee and the Coburger Hütte will reward you with views of the two lakes that will make you forget the effort you've made. Don't rush this part; the views are a photographer's dream. You are also likely to see wild chamois foraging here.

Step 6: Descent to Seebensee and Return

Finally, the trail descends to the beautiful Seebensee before looping back to the Ehrwalder Almbahn Bergstation. If you can, make a short stop at Seebensee; it's the perfect place to take a quick dip if the weather allows it.

Detailed Route Description: Hiking from Ehrwald to Hinterer Tajakopf

Before you start, wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water and snacks. This hike is strenuous, so make sure you're physically prepared.

This guide will give you a well-rounded hiking experience of nature, challenges, and unforgettable views. Enjoy the journey!

How to get to Ehrwald: Parking Tips for Your Adventure

Start your hike at the Ehrwald Almbahn Bergstation, which is your gateway to an extraordinary hike. Secure parking is available next to the station. Day tickets for the parking lot are 5€.

Conquering Hoher Gang

At the end of the Ehrwalder Almbahn mountain station, you can choose between two paths—the gravel road to the left or the Wasserfall Erlebnisweg Ehrwald and Hoher Gang to the right. Hoher Gang is the more scenic route and offers a rewarding mix of forested terrain and rocky outcrops. However, if you bring your four-legged friend along, you may want to take the left trail. From the beginning, you will have to climb steeply. Just follow the path until you reach the top of Hoher Gang. It will take you about 45 minutes.

Arrival at Brendlkar / Ganghofersteig Junction

Once you have successfully climbed Hoher Gang, the signs will try to lead you to Seebensee, but your adventure lies to the left of the gravel road. Go to the Seebenalm and follow the forest path downhill. Make sure to always follow this forest path and not the gravel road. After around 5 minutes you will arrive at the junction of the Brendlkar/Ganghofersteig path. Follow this path uphill.

Navigation towards Hinteres Tajatörl

As you enter this section of the hike, the trail transforms into an alpine wonderland. Serpentines wind through light larch forests. Above the tree line, you will enjoy sweeping views of the Wetterstein mountain range. Just follow the red markings towards and past the Brendlsee and you'll reach a scree field up to Hinteres Tajatörl. There's something magical about this rugged, unspoiled landscape. If you are lucky, you might even see some marmots! So be quiet and listen carefully! You will need about 1:30 hours for this part.

Ascent to Hinterer Tajakopf Summit

If you have the time, the Hinterer Tajakopf is well worth a detour. This part of the hike may look intimidating from below, but it's more bark than bite. All you need is a head for heights. The trail is mostly unsecured but passable. Nothing to worry about! Once at the top, you'll have an awe-inspiring panoramic view that will validate every step you take to get there. The detour takes about 45 minutes.

Descent to Coburger Hütte

After a well-deserved rest at the Hinterer Tajakopf, return the same way you came from to the Hinteres Tajatörl. From there, the descent to the Coburger Hütte is a unique adventure. Herds of wild chamois can often be seen from the trail, especially if you're quiet and attentive. As you descend, the glistening lakes of Drachensee and Seebensee gradually come into view. The breathtaking panorama makes this one of the most visually pleasing sections of the hike.

Descent from Coburger Hütte to Seebensee

Before you hike from the Coburger Hütte to the Ehrwalder Alm, you might want to take a dip in the Drachensee. Be aware that it is super cold! Anyway, the trail takes you through rocky terrain that zigzags steeply down. Once you arrive at the Seebensee, the place invites you for a last moment of peace before you head back. Be sure to go for a swim!

How to Return from Seebensee to the Ehrwalder Almbahn Bergstation

Almost there. Just follow the gravel road through a patch of forest to a junction with a sign "Koatiger Weg, Ehrwalder Alm,” which will take you off the gravel road and onto a small forest path. This shortcut takes you through the magical Lärchenwald before descending a steep, rocky path that can be slippery when wet, so be careful. Once out of the woods, follow the signs downwards with the Ehrwalder Alm and Ganghofer Hütte on your right and return to the Ehrwalder Almbahn Bergstation.

Ehrwald to Hinterer Tajakopf: A Must-Do Hiking Adventure in Tyrol

If you're looking for an unforgettable hiking experience in Tyrol, the trail from Ehrwald to Hinterer Tajakopf should be at the top of your list. The scenery constantly changes, offering breathtaking views and refreshing rest stops. It's a dog-friendly hike, so your four-legged friend can enjoy the adventure too!

The scenery is as varied as it gets. One moment, you are climbing a rocky slope; the next, you are walking along a tranquil lake. Every turn of the trail reveals a different panoramic view, leaving you in awe of nature's majesty.

And if you think this is the only gem in the area, you're in for a pleasant surprise. Tyrol is a hiker's paradise, with countless other equally breathtaking trails. For climbing enthusiasts, the region also offers several via ferratas, moderate and challenging, just waiting to be conquered. I can't wait to try them all!

Before you head out, though, don't forget to pack the essentials: plenty of water, food, and sunscreen. Trust me, once you're there, the mesmerizing beauty of the range might convince you to extend your stay.

So, are you ready to fall in love with one of the most beautiful hikes in Tyrol?