Hungerburg - Arzler Alm - Höttinger Alm

This circuit links the Arzler Alm and the Höttinger Alm in the Nordkette foothills above Innsbruck, Tyrol, Austria, and is rated mittelschwierig (medium difficulty) by Innsbruck Tourism. Access begins with the Hungerburgbahn funicular from Congress station to the Hungerburg upper station at 6020 Innsbruck; no car or permit is needed. The route covers about 10 km in roughly 5.5 hours, with about 763 m of ascent and descent in total, which places it in the moderate range: sustained uphill sections but no serious exposure. The surface is a combination of forest tracks, farm roads and dirt paths, with a good share of shade in the lower woodland and more open ground near the alms. The first landmark is the Arzler Alm, reached after a forest walk of around 45 minutes, followed by the climb to the Höttinger Alm, where views open across Innsbruck and the Inn Valley. Both alm inns serve food in season, which makes them natural rest stops and turn-around points for walkers who prefer a shorter day; the Arzler Alm is the easier place to turn back. The route ends on the Hungerburg or Seegrube side, where a cable car can be taken to the valley, so walkers should check lift operating times before starting. Natural water sources are not dependable, so bottles should be filled before departure and topped up at the inns. Hiking boots, a rain jacket, a warm layer and a trail map are advisable, since weather on the Nordkette slopes can change quickly and forest tracks become slippery when wet. The season runs from about May to October, once snow has gone from the higher stretches. The walk suits fit walkers who want a full day on the Innsbruck side of the mountains without technical terrain, and who value food stops at traditional alm inns along the way.