The Stubai Ultra Trail is the highlight for trail runners in autumn and attracts numerous athletes every September to the sun‑kissed Stubaital. With clear 10 °C, light wind and a spectacular Alpine backdrop, the course offers ideal conditions for an unforgettable running experience – whether you are a professional athlete or an ambitious hobby runner.
What is the Stubai Ultra Trail?
The Stubai Ultra Trail is an 80 km ultramarathon that features over 5,000 hm of elevation gain. The route takes you through the heart of the Tyrol valley, past well‑known alms such as Karalm, Klamperbergalm and Lizumer Hütte, and offers breathtaking views of the Stubaier Gletscher.
Tips: Start early in the morning to take advantage of the cool air and avoid the climbs in the afternoon.
Start and Arrival
The start line is located in Neustift im Stubaital, easily reachable via the Brenner Autobahn A13 (exit Schönberg/Stubai) and then the B183. A direct shuttle service takes you from the parking lot to the start area.
Overview of Arrival Options
- Car: A13 → exit Schönberg/Stubai → B183 to Neustift.
- Public transport: Train to Innsbruck, then bus line 470 to Neustift (about 30 min).
- Parking: Free parking at Neustift‑station, shuttle runs every 15 minutes.
Course Description – Main Stages
| Stage | Length | Elevation | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Start – Karalm | 12 km | 1 200 hm | Ascent to Karalm (1737 m) – open daily 9–17 Uhr |
| Karalm – Klamperbergalm | 8 km | 800 hm | Panoramic view, Klamperbergalm (1795 m) – open daily 9–17 Uhr |
| Klamperbergalm – Lizumer Hütte | 15 km | 1 200 hm | Technical climb, Lizumer Hütte (2019 m) – overnight & half‑board |
| Lizumer Hütte – Finish | 45 km | 1 800 hm | Descent through the Stubaier Gletscher valley, final sprint to the finish in Neustift |
Tips: Use Karalm and Klamperbergalm as refreshment stations – both offer snacks and drinks.
Refreshments and Supplies
Along the course several alms serve as off‑course supply stations. Here is an overview of the main stops:
- Karalm – 1737 m, daily 9–17 Uhr, dog‑friendly, no overnight stay.
- Klamperbergalm – 1795 m, daily 9–17 Uhr, dog‑friendly, no overnight stay.
- Lizumer Hütte – 2019 m, season mid June–early October, overnight and half‑board possible.
- Oberhausalm – 1350 m, daily 9–18 Uhr, dog‑friendly, no overnight stay.
Fact Blocks for Each Alm
Karalm
- Height: 1737 m
- Opening hours: daily 9–17 Uhr (season)
- Dog: yes
- Overnight: no
Klamperbergalm
- Height: 1795 m
- Opening hours: daily 9–17 Uhr (season)
- Dog: yes
- Overnight: no
Lizumer Hütte
- Height: 2019 m
- Opening hours: season mid June–early October
- Dog: yes
- Overnight: dormitory and rooms, half‑board
Oberhausalm
- Height: 1350 m
- Opening hours: daily 9–18 Uhr (season)
- Dog: yes
- Overnight: no
Tips: Plan your nutrition so that you take at least a half‑hour break between Karalm and Klamperbergalm – this gives you energy for the steep climb to Lizumer Hütte.
Frequently Asked Questions by Runners
How far is the next alm from the start?
- Karalm is already 12 km from the start in Neustift. It is the first official supply station.
When do the alms open in September?
- In September Karalm, Klamperbergalm and Oberhausalm are still open daily from 9–17 Uhr (or 9–18 Uhr). Lizumer Hütte remains open until early October.
Is the course suitable for beginners?
- The Stubai Ultra Trail is a demanding ultramarathon with many elevation meters. Beginners should train on shorter trails such as the Karalm Runde – Pinnistal (7 km, 350 hm) or the Stubaier Baumhausweg (6 km, 44 hm).
Are there dog‑friendly sections?
- Yes, the alms Karalm, Klamperbergalm, Oberhausalm and Lizumer Hütte are dog‑friendly. Note that Lizumer Hütte only offers a limited number of dog overnight places – early registration is advisable.
Preparation and Training
A successful ultra‑trail requires targeted training. Here is a sample plan:
- Endurance: 3‑4 long runs per week, gradually increase distance up to 30 km.
- Elevation: Incorporate mountain runs, e.g. the Wilder Freiger – Seven Summits Stubai (11.5 h, 1926 hm, 20.3 km) as a test run.
- Strength: Leg and core stability training 2 times per week.
- Nutrition: Test energy‑rich gels and electrolyte drinks during your long training runs.
Tips: Try your nutrition in a training session to avoid stomach problems on race day.
After the Race – Recovery and Highlights
After finishing in Neustift, you can unwind with a relaxed walk through the valley. A recommended stop is the Panoramarestaurant Koppeneck (1609 m) – here you’ll find regional specialties and a spectacular view of the Stubaier Gletscher.
Additional Autumn Programs
- Grawa Waterfall – 1.5 h, 200 hm, 5 km – perfect for a gentle post‑run.
- Grünausee – 5.67 h, 836 hm, 13 km – a lovely loop around the lake.
Conclusion
The Stubai Ultra Trail combines sporting challenge, alpine beauty and the hospitality of the Stubaital alms. With well‑planned refreshment stops at Karalm, Klamperbergalm and Lizumer Hütte, clear weather forecasts and autumn light, the race is an unforgettable experience for every trail runner.
Tips: Book your accommodation in Neustift early and register with Lizumer Hütte for a possible overnight stay – this way you start rested and full of energy for the adventure.
Further Links
- Route Planner – create your personal course map.
- Neustift – information about the village and accommodations.
- Alms – overview of all open alms in autumn.