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Hirtensteig trail
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Ritten
Ritten
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Renon, herdersPhoto: Ritten
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The Hirtensteig trail is ideal for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking for an enjoyable walk in an alpine setting.
Open
moderate
Distance 2.4 km
0:54 h
205 m
1 m
1,696 m
1,491 m
The Hirtensteig takes you on an exciting journey into the world of alpine farming on the Rittner Alm (Alpe del Renon). Along five stations, you’ll discover how shepherds – also known as Saltner – have lived and worked with animals on one of Europe’s largest communal alpine pastures for centuries.
Each year, around 370 farmers bring their livestock up to the mountain pastures. The fresh mountain air, sunshine, and herb-rich meadows help the animals relax and regain strength. At the same time, you can learn more about the history, traditions, and unique natural environment of this region.
The trail combines nature, culture, and history – perfect for anyone who enjoys relaxed hiking while learning something new.
Author’s recommendation
Take enough time to stop at each station and read the information boards carefully – this is what makes the Hirtensteig a truly special experience.
Along the way, notice how wide the pasture areas are and how the livestock moves from one enclosure to the next during summer, all the way up to the Schianand (Schönlandalm). On the Ritten alpine pasture, grazing has followed a fixed rhythm for centuries: from spring to autumn, the animals gradually move uphill and later return to the valley.
This way, you don’t just enjoy a beautiful hike – you also gain an authentic insight into traditional alpine farming and the life of the shepherds.
Along the way, notice how wide the pasture areas are and how the livestock moves from one enclosure to the next during summer, all the way up to the Schianand (Schönlandalm). On the Ritten alpine pasture, grazing has followed a fixed rhythm for centuries: from spring to autumn, the animals gradually move uphill and later return to the valley.
This way, you don’t just enjoy a beautiful hike – you also gain an authentic insight into traditional alpine farming and the life of the shepherds.
Responsible for this content
Ritten
Ritten
Difficulty
moderate
Overall difficulty
moderate
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Experience
Landscape
Highest point
1,696 m
Lowest point
1,491 m
Track types
Show elevation profileRest stops
Hotel TannSafety information
To make your hike on the Hirtensteig safe and enjoyable, always stay on the marked trails and keep a sufficient distance from grazing animals. Please do not frighten them and approach them calmly and respectfully. Dogs must be kept on a leash.Keep an eye on the weather and return in time in case of thunderstorms or heavy rain. Mutual respect is essential on the alpine pastures: do not leave any rubbish and protect nature and wildlife. This helps preserve this special place and ensures a pleasant experience for everyone.
Roadbook
The Hirtensteig leads along the forest trail (no. 27) into the wood and, after 400 m, branches off to the left onto trail no. 1A. An ascent then takes you through fairly steep forest land to the mountain meadows of the Saltner Hütte hut. Follow mountain trail 9A and, soon after, turn to your right onto a bare forest crest known as the “Gleck,” where you will find benches to stop off for a rest. Take the same route to return or,
alternatively, hike back towards the east from the Gleck along the forest trail for about 1 km towards Loden. From here, take trail no 27 which leads back to the starting point.
alternatively, hike back towards the east from the Gleck along the forest trail for about 1 km towards Loden. From here, take trail no 27 which leads back to the starting point.
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Hotel TannPublic transport
The starting point “Tann” is easily reachable by public transport.From Bolzano, you can either take bus line 165 directly from the bus station to Klobenstein, or take the Ritten cable car to Oberbozen and continue by the Ritten Railway to Klobenstein.
From Klobenstein, bus line 166 runs to Tann. Timetabel
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Hirtensteig trail
Directions
From Bolzano/Rentsch, follow the signs for “RITTEN”. Drive along the provincial road for about 14 km to just before Klobenstein. At the roundabout, follow the signs for “RITTNER HORN” for about 4 km to Tann – driving time: approx. 25–30 minutes.The sunny plateau is also easily accessible by public transport.
Parking
At Tann only a few parking spaces are available. As an alternative, you can park at the valley station of the Rittner Horn mountain cable car (paid parking).Access to the trail: From the valley station in Pemmern, follow trail no. 1 for about 600 m to Tann (bus stop).
Coordinates
DD
46.568827, 11.448933
DMS
46°34'07.8"N 11°26'56.2"E
UTM
32T 687671 5160164
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Equipment
No special mountaineering equipment is required for the Hirtensteig. Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip provide stability, while weatherproof clothing protects you from sun and sudden weather changes.Bring enough drinking water, a sun hat, and sunscreen. Hiking poles are optional and can offer extra support. With the right equipment, your hike will be relaxed, safe, and enjoyable.
Status
Open
Difficulty
moderate
Overall difficulty
moderate
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Distance
2.4 km
Duration
0:54 h
Ascent
205 m
Descent
1 m
Highest point
1,696 m
Lowest point
1,491 m
Statistics
Maps and trails
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Descent
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