Hiking Tips & Emergency Numbers

Tips & information for a safe mountain adventure

Breathtaking mountain landscapes, fresh alpine air, and tranquility away from the hustle and bustle await you in our region. To ensure your hiking day is both safe and enjoyable, we've compiled essential tips and emergency contact information for you.

Important emergency numbers

  • European emergency number: 112
  • Vorarlberg rescue/mountain rescue: 144

Save these important numbers in your phone or write them down so you can act quickly in an emergency.

A good plan is the first step to a great hike

Check the route: Familiarize yourself with the length and difficulty of your hike. Inform family members or your host about your planned route and expected return time.  

Stay updated on the weather: Mountain weather can change quickly. Check the forecast and seek advice from locals to avoid unexpected surprises.  

Allow for extra time: Begin your hike early in the morning and include time buffers to ensure a safe return before nightfall.

The right gear matters

Wear sturdy shoes and pack warm clothing, snacks, sunglasses, sunscreen, rain protection, a map, and a phone for emergencies. A well-packed backpack makes all the difference.

Listen to your body

Know your limits: Adjust the pace to the weakest in the group, take breaks, and enjoy nature without overexerting yourself.  

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol, as it reduces performance.

Stick to the marked trails

Follow the markings: Stick to the well-marked trails.

Always close pasture fences behind you.

Turn back in time: If unsure, it's safer to turn around earlier.

Enjoy nature respectfully

Be mindful: Keep noise levels down, leave no waste, and follow conservation rules. Respect both nature and fellow hikers.

Learn more about the "Respect your boundaries" initiative here.

Safety at a Glance

Use the location number: Vorarlberg’s hiking trails are classified into three difficulty levels. In an emergency, the location number helps pinpoint your exact location for faster assistance.

Fair travel: Sharing nature responsibly

Our region offers countless ways to experience nature—whether you enjoy the tranquility of hiking or the freedom of mountain biking. No matter how you explore the mountains, the goal is the same: to have a great time and unwind in your own way.

In some areas, hikers and bikers cross paths more frequently. With mutual respect and a true sporting spirit, we can all enjoy the mountains together!

Sporting spirit: Respect between hikers and bikers

We all cherish our moments in nature—whether enjoying solitude on a trail or taking a turn with some extra speed. In Brandnertal, some paths are shared. A little awareness, mutual respect, and a friendly smile make the experience better for everyone!

Tips for Hikers on Sharing Trails with Cyclists

  • If there's enough space, kindly step aside with a smile.
  • Don't block cyclists without a good reason.

Tips for Cyclists on Sharing Trails with Hikers

  • Hikers always have the right of way.
  • Use a bell to give a heads-up in advance.
  • Pass hikers at a walking pace or briefly dismount.
  • Brake gently to keep the trails in good shape.

Staying Safe on Pastures: Friendly Animal Encounters

Just like you, cows, sheep, goats, and horses love spending time outdoors. Thanks to our local farmers, these animals can follow their natural instincts and live happily on pastures and alpine meadows. However, like us, they will defend themselves if they feel threatened or if their young are in danger. To avoid any misunderstandings when you encounter grazing animals, please follow a few important guidelines.

Guidelines for Respectful Interaction:

  • Keep your distance! Avoid contact with grazing animals, don't feed them, and stay back.
  • Stay calm! Don't scare the animals.
  • Watch out for mother cows! They protect their calves, so keep dogs away.
  • Keep dogs on a short leash! If an attack seems likely, unleash your dog immediately to get it out of danger.
  • Stick to the paths! Don't stray from the marked trails on pastures and alpine meadows.
  • Cattle on the path? Walk past them at a safe distance.
  • Animals approaching? Stay calm, face them, and move away slowly.
  • Animals restless? Leave the grazing area quickly but stay calm.
  • Watch out for fences! Use the gates, close them properly, and cross the pasture quickly.
  • Respect everyone and everything! Treat people, animals, and nature with care.

Follow these simple rules to ensure peaceful encounters with grazing animals – and keep the "moo" friendly!