Thematic Trail

Discovery Trail - Experience the Stuibenfall

Ötztal
Open
Top
Medium
Key facts
1:45 h Duration
2.75 km Length
450 m Ascent
0 m Descent
1,462 m Max. altitude
1,078 m Min. altitude
Stamina
Landscape
Quality of Experience
Best Season
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Description

Experience the Stuibenfall.

On this route, you will learn how water has shaped life and the landscape in Umhausen over centuries and how significant its influence still is. Fascinating insights into the diverse uses of water await you, from historical irrigation systems to naturally grown bridges.

Map & elevation profile

Experience the Stuibenfall.

On this route, you will learn how water has shaped life and the landscape in Umhausen over centuries and how significant its influence still is. Fascinating insights into the diverse uses of water await you, from historical irrigation systems to naturally grown bridges.

The start of the hike is at the Bischoffsplatz parking lot in Umhausen. From there, follow the wide Fortsweg behind the Kneipphäusl restaurant up to the junction with the "Waalweg Arzwinkel." The path calmly winds along the Waal canals until you reach a gravel road. There, turn right along the bubbling Horlachbach up to the foot of the mighty waterfall, the Stuibenfall – Tyrol's largest waterfall. Always with a view of the fascinating natural spectacle, hike up to the source of the Stuibenfall on the right side of the cascading water masses over about 700 steps. Along the way, you pass scenic platforms and the 80-meter-long suspension bridge. At the end of the Discovery Trail, you can either return the same way or hike the old Niederthai street back to Umhausen. Alternatively, you can also hike to Niederthai and from there return to Umhausen by public transport.

Author's tip

How do the Discovery Trails work?

1. Get started: Simply click on the link or scan the QR code. You can also scan the QR code directly on the trail. In both cases, you will be redirected to a new page. You don't need to download anything, create an account, or install an app. The digital trails including facts are available as a web version and easily accessible via the link (or QR code).

2. No cheating possible: You must first reach each station to unlock and listen to the associated stories and facts. But who wants to cheat when you have it in your legs?

3. Digital collection pass: After you have reached all stations of a Discovery Trail, you will also receive a sticker in your digital collection pass as a reward.

Regions & Places

Austria (Country)
Tyrol (Province)
Bezirk Imst (District)
Ötztal (Tourism area)
Umhausen (Commune)

Mountain areas

Alps (Mountain area)
Stubai Alps (Mountain area)
Modified at 26.06.2026 · Created at 12.08.2025

Characteristics

Linear route
Refreshment stops available
Family-friendly
Cultural/historical interest

Way types

Asphalt 47.8 m
Schotterweg 1 km
Naturweg 196.07 m
Pfad 1.5 km

Hiking difficulty

Hiking trail - sometimes steep or narrow. Danger of falling cannot be ruled out. Basic surefootedness and orientation skills are an advantage.

Public transit

Travel comfortably and safely by train to the Ötztal train station. The final destination or exit point is the ÖTZTAL station. Then travel conveniently and quickly by public transport or local taxi companies throughout the valley to your desired destination!

The current bus schedule is available at: http://fahrplan.vvt.at

Starting point

Bischoffsplatz parking lot

Getting there

The car journey into the ÖTZTAL. Located in Tyrol, the Ötztal branches southward as the longest side valley of the Eastern Alps. Traveling by car takes visitors along the Inn valley to the valley entrance and further along the Ötztal. In addition to the toll motorway, country roads can also be used. You can quickly and conveniently plan your drive using the route planner. To the route planner: https://www.google.at/maps

Parking

The following parking options are available in Umhausen:
  • Mure parking lot | free of charge
  • Bischoffsplatz parking lot | Cost: €6.00 car day ticket, chargeable from 7:00 - 18:30
    • Multi-day tickets possible
    • Guests with disabilities park for free - valid ID must be shown and stored+
    • Buses park for free

Coordinates

10.93053, 47.131463
Plan arrival

Sunday, 05.07.
Longer Friendly
Later changeable
Morning
13 °C
10%
Rainfall risk
Afternoon
28 °C
40%
Rainfall risk
Monday, 06.07.
Rapid weather improvement
Mostly pleasantly warm
Morning
14 °C
50%
Rainfall risk
Afternoon
27 °C
30%
Rainfall risk

Appropriate equipment such as breathable, weather-appropriate outdoor clothing, ankle-high hiking boots, wind, rain and sun protection, a hat, and possibly gloves is required for all hikes and routes. It is necessary to bring a first aid kit, a mobile phone, and possibly a hiking map, as well as sufficient provisions for hikes without the possibility to stop for food.