Snowshoe hike to Astjoch across snowy alpine pastures, with gentle climbs and stunning views of the Dolomites, Pfunderer Mountains and Zillertal Alps.
The snowshoe hike to Astjoch at 2,194 m is one of the most scenic winter tours along the Lüsen/Luson ridge. Wide snow-covered alpine pastures, gentle ascents and impressive mountain views accompany the route, creating a memorable experience in the peaceful winter landscape.
The starting point is the small hamlet of Ellen above St. Lorenzen/San Lorenzo di Sebato. From here, the route initially leads through snow-covered woodland and alpine pastures before reaching the open landscape of the Lüsen/Luson ridge. As you gain altitude, the views become increasingly expansive, revealing the impressive surrounding mountain scenery. Gentle terrain and wide alpine pastures characterise much of the tour.
On the way to Astjoch, short woodland sections alternate with open slopes and panoramic passages. In clear conditions, the views extend across the Pustertal/Val Pusteria and towards numerous surrounding mountain ranges. Particularly impressive are the Dolomites/Dolomiti, Pfunderer Mountains/Monti di Fundres and Zillertal Alps/Alpi della Zillertal.
The destination of the tour is Astjoch at 2,194 m. Once at the summit, you are rewarded with an impressive panoramic view of South Tyrol’s snow-covered mountains. It is well worth allowing some time for a break here to enjoy the peace and vastness of the winter landscape. On clear winter days, the panorama is one of the highlights of the entire tour.
Depending on opening times, mountain huts serving food and drinks along the route offer opportunities for a relaxing stop. Regional dishes and hot drinks are a perfect way to round off the winter experience. As opening times may vary during the winter season, it is advisable to check them in advance.
The snowshoe hike leads through alpine, snow-covered terrain. Appropriate winter equipment, good physical condition and experience with snowshoes are therefore recommended. The actual difficulty of the tour can vary considerably depending on snow depth, weather and trail conditions.
Please follow the recommendations of the Alpenverein Südtirol (AVS) snowshoe hiking awareness campaign and always check the current snow, weather and avalanche conditions before setting out. The route should always be adapted to the current conditions.
