When leaving the charming historic small town behind, you might still be able to hear the faint sound of the “Heroes’ Organ” with its 4,948 perfectly tuned pipes – the world’s largest outdoor organ. First, take the train to Unterlangkampfen where the trail starts right above the church. Follow a steady climb through old-growth forest to gain elevation once again. Then take a narrow path from the Höhlensteinhaus to Köglhörndl, where you will enjoy magnificent views of the Inn Valley. The path continues to the Hundsalmjoch ridge at 1,637m. Close to the Alpengasthof Buchacker you will find the Hundalm Ice Cave at an elevation of 1,520m. Descend into this fascinating underground world with its numerous stalagmites and stalactites.
Medium-difficulty stage on red mountain paths. Sure-footedness and alpine knowledge required for the sometimes steep climbs and paths. Good overall physical fitness is necessary.
Starting point: Unterlangkampfen
Trailhead for this Eagle Walk stage is the tiny village of Unterlangkampfen, located halfway between Kufstein and Kirchbichl. Follow the way to the pedestrian underpass and keep on walking to the village centre with its parish church. Slightly above the church is where the signed forest road (“Höhlensteinhaus”) starts. Follow the road for a little while and do not miss the right fork onto a narrow dirt track. A steady and steep climb will take you up through the forest until you reach wide open alpine meadows.
Food & drink: Höhlensteinhaus
A steady and steep climb will take you up through the forest until you reach wide open alpine meadows. From here it’s a gentle downhill stroll to the Höhlensteinhaus, a mountain tavern situated in a lovely hollow. From the lodge, a footpath will take you to “Köglhörndl”. Follow the red-white blazes, heading up, steeply, and you will be rewarded with a true wilderness experience in and among some of the region's most pristine and beautiful surroundings. Continue along a remote ridge to the 1,645-metre-high peak of the Köglhörndl and savour majestic views from the top. Continue on as the trail takes a gentle up-and-down course along the ridge, with a final uphill section taking you to the top of the Hundsalmjoch ridge (1,637m), graced by a modern-style steel cross on its summit. This is where you leave the ridge and continue directly opposite the cross on the way-marked path down to alpine pastures. Follow the shortcut through the meadows to your left to the forest road. This is where the final section of the descent begins, leading down to the Gasthof Buchacker (1,450m). If you have the time and energy, turn off to the right just before reaching the Buchackeralm for an optional 20-minute walk to visit the Hundalm ice and stalactite cave.
Finishing point: Alpengasthaus Buchacker