HIKING RULES

Here you find ten basic mountain rules for your safety. Make sure that your next holiday in the fantastic Ötztal mountains will be successful.

These 10 international Hiking & Mountaineering Rules established by VAVÖ (Austrian Association of Alpine Clubs) and UIAA (Union Internationale des Associations d'Alpinisme).

PHYSICAL SHAPE

Check your physical condition before you start a hike and choose an appropriate tour according to your experience and the shape of your hiking companions.

EQUIPMENT

Appropriate hiking and mountaineering equipment is a must. Hiking clothes, non-slip hiking boots, raingear and protection against cold are absolutely required. Don't forget to take a first aid box and enough food and drink (also for emergencies) with you.

INFORM SOMEONE

Choose the mountain tour according to the season and the length of the day. Inform someone (for example your host) about the tour, the exact route and when you plan to be back.

HIKING COMPANIONS

Never hike alone. Always check the fitness of your hiking companions first, then choose a mountain tour according to the physical shape of the weakest hiker.

HIKING TRAILS

Never leave the signposted walking routes and hiking trails. Especially in snow-covered glacier areas and on via ferratas a chest and sit harness, secured by a rope, are absolutely required.

TOUR PLANNING

It's absolutely necessary to accurately plan a hiking tour in Alpine terrain. Not only the length and the distance but also the difference in altitude is important.

WEATHER

You should always be informed about the weather conditions and check the latest weather and avalanche reports for high Alpine regions. Additionally, you should trust in local weather forecasts and snow reports referring to the hiking area you have chosen.

BEST HIKING TIME

Start your hike as early as possible so that you return early and don't get caught by darkness.

OVEREXERTION

The right walking speed is of utmost importance for all hikers, depending on your own stamina and the physical fitness of your companions. A walking pace which is too fast causes overexertion.