L4 Almen-Trail

The route starts at the Bamacher parking lot and proceeds along the forest road. There is also a hiking trail that branches off right next to the road; we choose this trail for the return route. On the first 5 km to the Ennser Hut, we overcome about 500 meters of altitude gain, which is not too steep. Directly at the hut, just above, is the entrance to the hiking trail that takes us over a beautiful single trail straight to the summit of the Almkogel. With its 1513 meters, it is the highest summit in the nearby area with a great view of the Alpine foothills. The return is along the same single trail to the Ennser Hut (be careful when wet!). To the right behind the hut, a hiking trail leads down through the forest. It is easy to run until we meet the forest road again. We follow it for the next 1.5 km until another forest road branches off to the left. We now follow this road. A small passage that is a bit rough through the forest, then along the road again. Always downhill, we reach the Tomaseben Alm and continue running through the forest. Before turning towards Rotstein, we have to cross a small rough patch in the forest again, but it is not particularly difficult. We continue running, circle Rotstein on the left, and then reach the entrance to the summit. Short and steep climb up. The summit rewards with a wonderful view of Großraming. Returning via the hiking trail goes down again to an alpine pasture. In summer, there are many cows grazing here. Caution with dogs is advised. We leave the hiking trail and run to the right. A trail marker shows us the direction. Along alpine meadows, we reach the Oberplaißa main road, which takes us back to the starting point of our route.

Rest stop available at the Ennser Hut

It can become very slippery at Almkogel and Rotstein when wet; trekking poles are recommended.

The required equipment always depends on the respective route and the weather conditions. Regarding provisions: this is very individual and it is advisable to have more rather than less equipment and provisions with you. A 5 km round in the valley requires less than a demanding route in the mountains. The weather can change quickly, and if you are not constantly moving or need to take a break, warm clothing is of great importance, for example.

Here is a general checklist for you:

Weather-appropriate running clothes for the respective season – weather forecast – region – altitude. This includes, among other things: * a waterproof rain jacket * waterproof rain pants suitable for running * gloves and warm headgear (hat/headband/neck tube) * sunglasses + sunscreen + headgear for very warm days

Trailrunning shoes

Water bottles, soft flasks, or a hydration bladder with enough liquid for the respective route (possibly also salt tablets/magnesium)

Snacks for the energy boost in between: energy bars, gels, chocolate, trail mix,

Running backpack: ideally a trailrunning vest / a trailrunning backpack or a waist belt for small routes.

Dry pack: to keep your valuables or change of clothes dry (optionally a small garbage bag)

Emergency blanket

Small first aid kit. In my opinion, an Israeli bandage is highly recommended: it is a one-handed operable wound and pressure bandage. You can find details here.

Emergency whistle (often integrated into trail running backpacks)

Cell phone

Maps (online and/or offline)

E-Card or insurance card

Some cash

Crampons/spikes: these can be of great advantage in winter and icy conditions.

Folding poles for trailrunning

Headlamp