Proper conduct while hiking

Time and time again, hikers put themselves in danger by wearing unsuitable shoes, forgetting important equipment such as protection against the rain, cold or sun, overestimating their stamina or failing to take note of the weather forecast. Safe hiking requires preparation and advance information. Therefore, please be sure to observe the rules for proper conduct in the mountains. Your safety is very important to us. And don’t forget: drink plenty of fluids while hiking!

If you urgently need help along the way:
Alpine emergency call: 140
International emergency call: 112

• Check the physical fitness of all participants, including children, before every hike. Mountain hikes often demand sure-footedness and a head for heights.
• Detailed planning based on route descriptions and maps. Information from alpine associations and locals, such as innkeepers, can be very helpful.
• Make sure you have appropriate clothing and equipment. Solid, high boots with grippy soles and protection against rain and cold are particularly important.
• Before leaving, let the innkeeper, hotelier or friends know your route and the destination of your hike, as well as the expected time of return.
• Adjust the pace to the weakest members of the group. Walk slowly, especially at the start of the hike. Be sure to observe the other participants to recognise signs of exhaustion early on.
• Stay on the marked trails. Use great caution when walking on steep, grassy slopes, especially in wet conditions. Crossing steep snow fields is particularly hazardous.
• Do not kick any rocks loose (risk of injury for other mountain hikers). Pass areas at risk of rock falls single file, quickly and without stopping.
• Turn back if the weather changes, fog rolls in, or the trail is too challenging or in poor condition. Rather than a dishonour, doing so is a sign of reason.
• Keep calm in case of an accident. If you are unable to help yourself, attempt to summon assistance using your mobile phone or by calling out, sending a light signal or waving a large piece of clothing. An injured person should generally be left at the accident site, and must never be left alone.
• Take waste back with you. Protect the flora and fauna.
• Dealing with animals in the alps: do not tease cows, calves, sheep, horses etc. but act “entirely normal” and do not show fear. Do not leave trails on mountain pastures and give animals a wide berth.
• Dogs must be on a leash. Preventing dogs from chasing livestock is essential. Mother cows in particular are very protective of their calves. Should your dog be attacked by livestock however, let the dog go for its own protection.