The history of South Tyrol’s most beautiful circular mountain trail in the Texel Group Nature Park
The idea of creating a panoramic hiking trail on the southern side of the Texel Group dates back to Oswald Wallnöfer (AVS Chairman 1960–1961). Helmuth Ellmenreich (AVS Chairman 1963–1997) revived this vision in the 1960s and began connecting existing mountain paths traditionally used by local farmers. By 1969, the first section of the Merano High Mountain Trail was completed, running from Longfall through Talbauer, Hochmuth, Leiteralm, Hochganghaus, and ending at Giggelberg. It was Ellmenreich who suggested the name “Merano High Mountain Trail.”
Expanding the trail
Under the leadership of Robert Schönweger, who became trail and marking coordinator in 1968, the path was expanded during the 1970s and 1980s. New sections were created from Longfall to Gfeis and Vernuer, and from Giggelberg to Hochforch and Schnatzhof. Challenging parts, such as the Lahnbach Gorge, were tackled creatively despite the limited technical means of the time. A stretch from Innerforch to Unterstell was completed in collaboration with the nature park administration.
Nature park and alpine trail
With the establishment of the Naturpark Texelgruppe - Texel Group Nature Park in 1976, the idea emerged to transform the trail into a circular route around the entire mountain massif. Thanks to the support of local farmers, municipalities, tourism associations, and volunteers – including members of the Schwäbischer Albverein – this dream gradually became a reality.
Completion and inauguration
In 1982, the section from Ulfas to Matatz was finished, and on June 30, 1985, the Merano High Mountain Trail was officially inaugurated in Katharinaberg after around ten years of construction. The bridge over the Pfelderer Bach was financed by the Fuchs family (Forst Brewery).
A collective achievement
Today, the Merano High Mountain Trail is one of South Tyrol’s most beautiful circular mountain trails. Thanks to the dedication of Helmuth Ellmenreich, Robert Schönweger, and many other contributors, it is more than just a hiking trail – it is a “bond of friendship connecting farms, municipalities, and valleys.”
2025! This year, we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Merano High Mountain Trail with special events and unforgettable highlights!