The Elferhütte at 2,080 m is the landmark of Neustift. The 360° panorama over the Stubaital, the view of the Serles and in the direction of the glacier – for that, hikers come from all over Tirol. The question is only: Gondel or by foot?
By Gondel – 10 minutes, no effort
The Elfer-Gondelbahn starts directly in Neustift and brings one to the Elferhütte in about 10 minutes. In high summer, in operation daily, first ride usually at 8:30 am.
Advantages:
- Ideal for families with small children or luggage
- More time above, less time on the ascent
- Also tolerable in bad weather
Disadvantage: Gondel costs. And one misses the ascent through the forest, which has its own charm.
By Foot – 2 hours, 1,100 meters in altitude
The ascent to the Elferhütte by foot is no small thing: about 1,100 meters in altitude on about 5 km, through the Elfer forest and over open alpine meadows.
Route description:
- Start at the Elfer-Gondelbahn parking lot in Neustift
- Signposting towards Elferhütte / Elferkogl
- Through the forest – first leisurely, then steeper
- Above tree line: first panorama
- Elferhütte (2,080 m) – a snack is deserved
Walking time: 2–2.5 hours up, 1.5–2 hours down Difficulty: Medium – for experienced well doable, for untrained strenuous
What awaits above
The Elferhütte (Bewirtschaftet, DAV-Hütte) offers:
- Panorama terrace with view of the Serles, Stubaier Glacier, Inntaler Mountains
- Typical hut food: goulash, cheese spätzle, strudel
- Overnight accommodation (bunk, room) – good for multi-day tours
Further on from the Elferhütte:
- Elferkogl (2,480 m) – 1 more hour, summit experience
- Kreuzjoch – connection to the Pinnistal
- Starkenburger Hütte – for experienced, part of the Stubaier High Trail
Recommendation
Gondel up, by foot down – the best of both worlds. Up early, have a leisurely breakfast, then take the footpath down. The descent is easier than the ascent, and one sees more.
Those taking on the ascent: early start before 8 am. The path is full from 10 am – especially in August.