Highlight • Mountain Hut
Rastkogel Hut
Hiking
4.9
(1181)
Mountaineering
4.9
(47)
Mountain biking
4.6
(43)
Snowshoeing
5.0
(7)
Alpine skiing
5.0
(5)
The Rastkogelhütte is a welcoming mountain hut nestled at 2,124 meters (6,969 feet) in the heart of the Tux Alps in Tyrol, Austria. Owned by the German Alpine Club, this traditional refuge sits high above the Zillertal Valley, offering a tranquil alpine experience away from main roads and lift facilities. It serves as an ideal base for exploring the stunning mountain landscape, with panoramic views extending across to the majestic Zillertal Alps.
Visitors consistently praise the Rastkogelhütte for its warm hospitality, friendly hosts, and delicious regional cuisine offered at fair prices. Many describe it as a charming and rustic stop, providing a cozy atmosphere after a day of adventure. The tasty meals and welcoming environment make it a popular destination for both day hikers and those seeking overnight accommodation.
Access to the Rastkogelhütte is primarily by foot, making it a true mountain experience. From the hut car park on the Zillertaler Höhenstraße, the walk takes about an hour in summer. Alternatively, from the hiking car park at the former Sportalm, it's approximately a 1.5-hour hike, accessible even in winter. For those coming from Hochfügen, a scenic 2.5-hour walk via the Sidanjoch leads directly to the hut. Be prepared for cash-only payments and remember to bring a hut sleeping bag and hut shoes for overnight stays, as these are mandatory.
The Rastkogelhütte is a year-round destination, typically open from early December to Easter in winter, and from Pentecost (early June) until the end of October in summer. In warmer months, it's a hub for hiking and mountaineering, with trails leading to peaks like the Rastkogel (2,762 m), Marchkopf (2,499 m), and Kreuzjoch (2,290 m). During winter, it transforms into a popular spot for ski touring and snowshoeing, with a spectacular toboggan run available when snow conditions allow.
One popular route to the Rastkogelhütte is the hike from the Bergbahnen car park in Hochfügen. This intermediate trail takes approximately two hours, leading you over the Sidanjoch and offering increasingly impressive views as you ascend towards the hut.
Beyond the trails, visitors often highlight the sense of peace and solitude found at the Rastkogelhütte, far from the hustle and bustle. The surrounding landscape is characterized by lush alpine meadows, which burst into color with blooming almrausch in season. For families, a playground is available for children to enjoy, adding to the hut's family-friendly appeal.
Whether you're planning a day trip or a multi-day adventure, the area around the Rastkogelhütte offers a variety of hiking routes and opportunities for mountain biking. You can discover numerous trails and plan your visit using komoot, finding options that suit all levels of experience, from leisurely walks to challenging summit ascents in the Tux Alps.
Tips
September 25, 2018
Hiking
The hut is open in winter from early December to Easter, and in summer from early June to late October.
More information at alpenvereinaktiv.com/de/bewirtschaftete-huette/rastkogelhuette/6938681.
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September 7, 2021
Hiking
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July 30, 2022
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Rastkogel Hut
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Details
Informations
Elevation 2,170 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Overnight Stay
yes
Weather
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Thursday 7 May
13°C
0°C
45 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 8.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Rastkogelhütte suitable for beginner hikers?
Yes, there are routes suitable for beginners. For instance, the walk from the hut car park next to the Zillertal High Road is approximately 1 hour in summer and is considered a relatively easy approach. However, always check the specific trail conditions and your fitness level before heading out.
Are dogs allowed at the Rastkogelhütte for overnight stays?
Overnight stays with dogs are generally possible at the Rastkogelhütte, but it is mandatory to arrange this in advance with the hut wardens. This ensures appropriate accommodation can be provided.
What are the options for public transport to reach the Rastkogelhütte area?
While the hut itself is primarily accessed by foot, public transport can get you to the general vicinity. You would typically take a bus to towns like Hochfügen or Hippach, and then proceed on foot from there. Always check local bus schedules for the most current information.
What facilities does the Rastkogelhütte offer for overnight guests?
The Rastkogelhütte provides cozy accommodation with 20 beds and 47 mattress spaces in dormitories. Guests can expect modern washing rooms, warm showers, and a drying room with shoe dryers. A hut sleeping bag and hut shoes are mandatory for overnight stays.
Are there any circular hiking routes starting from the Rastkogelhütte?
The Rastkogelhütte serves as an excellent base for various hikes, including possibilities for circular routes. From the hut, you can embark on tours to surrounding peaks like the Rastkogel (2,762 m), Marchkopf (2,499 m), or Kreuzjoch (2,290 m), often combining paths to create circular experiences. Consult a hiking map or local guides for detailed circular route planning.
What are the payment options at the Rastkogelhütte?
It is important to note that the Rastkogelhütte operates on a cash-only basis. Make sure to bring sufficient cash for your meals, drinks, and any overnight stays.
Is there mobile phone reception or Wi-Fi at the hut?
While the Rastkogelhütte does not offer Wi-Fi, there is generally good mobile phone reception available at the hut, allowing you to stay connected if needed.
What should I wear for winter hiking or snowshoeing to the Rastkogelhütte?
For winter activities like hiking or snowshoeing to the Rastkogelhütte, it's crucial to dress in layers suitable for cold mountain conditions. This includes waterproof and windproof outer layers, warm insulation, appropriate winter hiking boots, gloves, a hat, and gaiters. Snowshoes or ski touring equipment will be necessary depending on your activity, and always carry safety gear like an avalanche transceiver, probe, and shovel if venturing into avalanche-prone terrain.
Are there any specific viewpoints or natural features to look out for near the hut?
Absolutely! The hut itself offers magnificent panoramic views of the Zillertal Alps. From higher points, you can even see the Karwendel mountains. In season, the surrounding alpine meadows are characterized by beautiful blooming almrausch (alpine roses), adding to the natural beauty.
How long does it take to hike to the Rastkogelhütte from different starting points?
Hiking times vary depending on your starting point:
- From Hochfügen (1,500 m) via the Sidanjoch: approximately 2.5 hours.
- From a hut car park next to the Zillertal High Road (1,900 m): about 1 hour during summer.
- From the hiking car park at the former Sportalm (1,700 m): approximately 1.5 hours.
- From Mösl/Gasthof (1,500 m) on the Hippach Höhenstraße: approximately 2.5 hours.
Can I access the Rastkogelhütte during the winter season?
Yes, the Rastkogelhütte is a popular destination in winter, typically open from early December to one week after Easter. It's a hub for ski touring and snowshoeing, and a spectacular toboggan run is available when snow conditions allow. Access is possible from various points, including the hiking car park at the former Sportalm.