Austria's Ultimate Hiking Challenge

Alpen Triple Crown

Hike Austria's three great trails: Nordalpenweg, Zentralalpenweg, and Südalpenweg. More than 2,500 km and almost 150,000 meters of elevation - all in one season.
Explore the Trails

All three trails of the Alpen Triple Crown

01 Nordalpenweg

Austria's premier alpine journey spanning from Vienna to Lake Constance. This historic trail traverses seven Austrian states along the northern limestone Alps, reaching nearly 3,000 meters at its highest points. Established in 1975 and considered the most spectacular of Austria's long-distance paths, it challenges hikers with demanding alpine terrain while rewarding them with unparalleled mountain vistas.
  • Vienna to Bregenz
  • ~960 kilometers
  • Approx. 53,000 m
Weitwanderweg 01 (Nordalpenweg)

02 Zentralalpenweg

Austria's longest trail, cutting through the heart of the Austrian Alps from east to west. Opened in 1978, this challenging route crosses seven states and reaches beyond 3,000 meters in the High Tauern and Ötztal Alps. Parts require glacier experience and advanced alpine skills, though an alternate route (02A) offers a less technical option. The trail showcases Austria's stunning national parks and delivers a true high-alpine experience for ambitious hikers.
  • Feldkirch to Hainburg
  • ~1,150 kilometers
  • Approx. 66,000 m
Weitwanderweg 02 (Zentralalpenweg)

03 Südalpenweg

The southernmost of Austria's great trails, stretching along the country's border from Bad Radkersburg to Sillian. Opened in 1981, this diverse path begins in Styria's wine country before climbing to the spectacular Karawanken and Carnic Alps ridgelines, reaching heights of 2,700m with breathtaking views into the Italian Dolomites. The western section doubles as part of the European Long-Distance Path E10, offering hikers a remarkable journey through Austria's southern alpine frontier.
  • Bad Radkersburg to Sillian
  • ~450 kilometers
  • Approx. 25,000 m
Weitwanderweg 03 (Südalpenweg)

From Alpine Roots to Mountain Trails

Born in Austria in 1985, I once looked up at the Alps wondering why anyone would climb them. At 24, I left for America with just $100, eventually securing a tech career in San Francisco where I transformed my body and mind—losing 100 pounds and discovering my passion for hiking. The Pacific Crest Trail awakened my love for mountains, leading me to plant medicine in the Amazon and ultimately back to my Austrian roots. Now I'm tackling my greatest challenge yet: over 2,500 km with 150,000 meters of elevation across Austria's mountains—a journey from the chubby kid who avoided hills to the adventurer conquering the very peaks that once intimidated him.
About my Journey
Thomas on Mount Whitney (14,508 ft)

What's The Gear I'm Using?

The most daunting aspect of this hike is dealing with the snow. I have to start after most of the snow has melted and finish before the next snowfall. This narrow window necessitates a fast pace and minimal gear to stay light and quick on my feet, making the challenge even more intense.
  • Aonijie C9111 - Backpack
    I chose this fastpack due to its affordability (around $70), its lightweight design (600 grams), and its vest-like shoulder straps that should help distribute weight more evenly.
  • Iceflame Gear Extra Quilt NXT - Sleeping Quilt
    The choice ultimately hinged on the cost per gram. Getting 512 grams for $166 is nearly unbeatable. For three-season hiking, this quilt rated for 0-20 °C should ensure I stay warm.
  • Naturehike Thermal 3.5R - Sleeping Mat
    I searched for second-hand ultra-light sleeping mats, but they were either too expensive or heavy. So, I bought a new Naturehike for $94, which is affordable and weighs just 415 grams.
  • Six Moon Designs Gatewood Cape - Tarp (Poncho)
    This serves as both my tarp and rain poncho. It's not only incredibly lightweight, but hopefully a great protector against the weather, and also eliminates the need to carry a separate rain jacket.