A scenic circular hike with magnificent summit views.
Astjoch (2.190 m) is one of the highest summits in the area of Rodenecker and Lüsner Alm. The hike leads from Ellen near St. Lorenzen to this popular peak, offering breathtaking views on the Puster Valley, the Zillertal Alps and the Dolomites. The summit is dominated by a huge wooden cross, clearly visible from a long distance.
The bus 424 from St. Lorenzen to Elle has 15 seats. You can load the stroller on board in the designated area at the back of the vehicle.
Starting point
Ellen - Kreuzner
Directions
Just before the Kreuzner car park, which is situated above the hamlet of Ellen, the well-marked forest trail no. 67 branches off to the left towards Astjoch/Burgstall. After a gentle climb of about an hour, it leads to the slightly hidden Walderalm, which is surrounded by flowering meadows in early summer and invites you to enjoy a refreshing break from June to September with a view of the Brunico valley basin. Behind the Walderalm, the path winds its way towards the nearby tree line and then climbs through scenic meadows and heathland slopes up to the Astjoch. At the high summit cross, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the Puster Valley, the Zillertal Alps, the Eisack Valley and the Dolomites. A panoramic sign indicates the names of some of the surrounding mountain peaks, and a few benches invite you to linger. You then hike back down the same path you took on the ascent until you reach the crossroads above the Walderalm, where you follow the forest road to the left, which winds pleasantly down through the forest and finally takes you back to the starting point via path no. 67B.
Alternative descents:
Option 1 – Circular walk: From the summit cross, turn right onto trail no. 67 towards the Rodenecker Alm (places to stop for refreshments: Starkenfeldhütte and Rastnerhütte). Then follow trail no. 67 and subsequently trail no. 67B back to the starting point.
Option 2 – Return via the same route as the ascent.
public transportation
From Bruneck with the train, the citybus 420.2, the regular bus 401 or 460 to St. Lorenzen bus station. From here with the regular bus 424 to Ellen - bus stop Kreuzner.
Where to park
Parking Kreuzner -on charge from 7.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.:
0,80 € per hour
5 hours or more: daily rate of 4,00 € for cars and 6,00 € for campers
Solid hiking shoes with good tread, breathable and weather-appropriate clothing, and, if needed, hiking poles to help with ascents and descents. Make sure your rucksack also contains sun and rain protection, enough fluids and a snack.
