19 puzzle stations around the reservoir, a panoramic circular trail accessible with a stroller, and a goblin in need of help. There are hikes that children need convincing to join. This is not one of them.
Up at the top station of the Hochalmbahn, Kodok, the guardian of the Glemmtal mountains, is facing a challenge—and as every parent knows, kids would rather solve problems than count meters of elevation gain. Along approximately two kilometers, the trail winds around the Hochalm reservoir lake, passing 19 hands-on stations designed for cranking, guessing, and discovering. Along the way, guests young and old learn just how much precision engineering and manual craft go into running a cable car.
From Hotel Alpin Juwel, it is only a few minutes valley inwards to the base station. This makes the knowledge trail one of those family day-trip destinations in Hinterglemm that work effortlessly for a spontaneous morning outing—leaving the entire afternoon free for relaxed downtime.
The Knowledge Trail at a Glance
For a long time, Kodok was known as a mischievous goblin. Over the years, however, he has transformed into a watchful guardian of the alpine world, looking after local wildlife, forests, and hikers.
Because his own mountain home is undergoing a complete renovation, Kodok is spending the summer up on the Hochalm—closely observing the cable car crew at work. How does a gondola lift actually work? How heavy is a steel haul rope? And what needs to happen during the summer to ensure safe operations in the winter? Kodok meticulously recorded all his findings in his magical notebook. But then, a sudden mountain gust blew through and scattered several pages to the wind.
This is where young mountain detectives come into play: armed with the adventure pass, children follow the trail, solve the puzzles at each stop, collect clues, and help Kodok piece his lost knowledge back together. The booklet is available at the Hochalmbahn valley station.
Hands-on Discovery Instead of Merely Watching
At the interactive stations, children get to crank levers, hoist weights, pull cables, and crack codes. Anyone who has ever tried lifting a real piece of aerial tramway cable walks away with a lasting respect for the loads these steel ropes endure.
The Reservoir Lake at the Heart of the Trail
The loop circles the Hochalm reservoir, which provides the water supply for winter snowmaking. In summer, it transforms into an idyllic, sun-drenched plateau offering sweeping vistas across the Pinzgau Grass Mountains. An ideal spot to unpack a snack from your rucksack.
Active Play Between Stops
Scattered between the brainteasers are miniature climbing structures and balancing elements. Energetic kids looking to burn off some steam between riddles will find plenty of opportunities here.
Behind the Scenes of the Lifts
During the summer school holidays, the lift operators open their doors once a week to offer exclusive behind-the-scenes insights into ropeway engineering. Current dates and times are available at the Alpin Juwel reception desk.
The knowledge trail ranks among the few alpine trails in the valley that are fully accessible with a stroller. The trail surface is wide and well-compacted, completely free of steps.
Two practical details make all the difference: pneumatic air-filled tires roll much more smoothly over alpine gravel than hard plastic wheels, and a handbrake is invaluable for keeping descents controlled on gently sloped sections. If you prefer walking without wheels, child carrier backpacks are available to borrow on request from the Schwabl family and the Alpin Juwel team.
From the front door of Hotel Alpin Juwel, head just a few minutes valley inwards toward the valley head to reach the base station of the Hochalmbahn. It is a quick drive, and free parking is available directly at the lift station. Alternatively, the local hiking bus stops nearby and can be used free of charge with the JOKER CARD.
The JOKER CARD is included in your stay at Hotel Alpin Juwel and is handed to you upon arrival at reception. It covers the operating cable cars throughout the valley—meaning your ride up the Hochalm requires no additional lift pass. If you are looking for a family hotel in Hinterglemm with the JOKER CARD included, your mountain transport is settled before your first cup of morning coffee.
Start in the Morning
The Hochalm sits on an open, sunlit plateau with very little natural shade along the path. Starting in the morning ensures cooler temperatures and quieter puzzle stations.
Pack Dependable Sun Protection
At over 1,700 meters, alpine UV radiation is significantly stronger than it feels. A sun hat, high-SPF sunscreen, and a filled water bottle belong in every daypack—best topped up right at the hotel before leaving.
Standard Athletic Shoes Are Plenty
There is no need for rigid mountain boots here. Sturdy trainers or running shoes with good profile grip are entirely adequate for adults and children alike.
Bring a Light Windbreaker
Breezes pick up around the open reservoir more often than the warm valley floor suggests. Packing a light wind jacket for everyone saves chilly complaints along the way.
Unwind Afterward
Back at Hotel Alpin Juwel, paths naturally diverge: the kids proudly recount their adventures with Kodok, while parents retreat to the JU-WELL Spa or drift in the infinity pool overlooking the Glemmtal scenery.
The Hinterglemm Valley Head (Talschluss)
Just a short drive further up the valley lies the Golden Gate Bridge of the Alps, the Treetop Trail (Baumzipfelweg), and the Teufelswasser water park area. A half-day trip flies by here, especially on warm summer afternoons.
Montelino's Adventure Path on the Kohlmais
The ideal next chapter for kids who haven't had their fill of mountain stories after Kodok. This trail is also tailored specifically to families with young children.
Alpine Hut Refreshments
Charming serviced mountain huts with scenic sun terraces dot the surrounding slopes of Hinterglemm. Homemade Pinzgau Kasnocken (cheese dumplings) and fresh Kaiserschmarrn are staple menu highlights—our reception staff will happily recommend which hut best matches your daily walking route.
