Hiking in Imst Austria – Rosengartenschlucht Waterfall Guide

Hiking in Imst Austria is a total hidden gem and we loved the jam packed Nature hike from old town to the famous Imst alpine coaster.

Imst has a work-a-day vibe that is refreshing after the impossible cuteness overload at places like Garmisch (and less crowds).

This absolutely stunning hike packs a lot in its short 1 mile length, from spouting waterfalls, caves, hanging bridges and milky blue tumblers of a river in the gorge. 

If you want a break from the hot sun or a nice walk to get to the alpine coaster then this is the hike for you. It’s one of the best things to do in Imst, and it’s always free admission!

Morgan’s Rosengartenschlucht Imst Hiking Youtube

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Who is this hike for?

Families, people wanting to see waterfalls without crowds, people going from old town to the Imst alpine coaster by foot. 

Who is this hike not for?

People in wheelchairs. Winter hikers – it’s closed.

tl;dr: Family friendly hiking trail travel guide to the best hiking in Imst Austria at the Rosengartenschlucht Waterfall hike right in town!  Including GPX stages for your phone travel tips and best places to to stay.

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Hiking in Imst Austria – Rosengartenschlucht Waterfall Guide

Pros of the Hike:

• Very short
• Action Packed gorge with waterfalls, caves
• Trailhead directly in old town

Cons of the hike:

• Steep
• No bathroom
• Point to Point – not a loop.  It’s a 1.1 km walk back to the town center on an alpine road, or there is a bus stop Imst Seraput 10 min from the top of the trail.

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Craving More Adventure in Imst?

Don’t have time to read the whole article? No Problem! To sum up, here are the three best outdoor things to do in addition to awesome hiking in Imst, Austria.

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Imst Hiking Route Map

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How to use this map: Use your computer mouse or fingers to zoom in and out. Click on the icons to get more information. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the written index. Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your google maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open google maps, click the menu button, and go to “your places”/ “maps.”

Rosengartenschlucht Waterfall Hike: My Experience

 Old Town – End of Trail (:30 min)

To access the trailhead at Johannis Brunnen, you can either park in the paid lot in the middle of the old town or walk from your hotel.

We did this hike on a hot day as preparation for the alpine coaster, and it proved to be a refreshing break from the heat despite being uphill most of the way.

The path follows the Schinderbach river and you don’t get drenched, but it’s definitely cooling.

Starting along the rose-filled walkway, you’ll soon reach the gorge entrance with its hanging bridge. Be sure to use the restroom beforehand as there are no stops along the way. The trail winds through various waterfalls and lookouts, with a forest fairy vibe.

At the top of the gorge, you can either walk down to town (.6 miles) or take a bus (10 min walk on the road). Most people opt for the latter on hot days. However, we recommend continuing uphill through the forest to the Imst alpine coaster in the micro hamlet of HochImst.

There, you’ll find chairlifts, the alpine slide, restaurants, bars, and skiing in winter. A bus stop is also available in this hamlet.

Things to Know About Imst Austria

Is Imst Austria Worth Visiting?

Yes!  If you love the outdoors and charming villages that aren’t pretentious.  It’s not the typical alpine village with buildings plastered in malerei and geraniums.  It’s more work-a-day, yet offers incredible hiking, canyoning, white water rafting and delicious food.  The mountains here are vast and beautiful and the people are more willing to have a chat than busier Alps towns like Garmisch or Innsbruck.

Located only an hour from the more touristy hot spots, Imst is a great break from the tourist overwhelm and the focus really is on immersing in Nature and adventure.

Things to do in Imst Austria

All Season Outdoor Adventure – Alpine Coaster and River Sports Are the Highlight, but Imst has it all.

River Gorges

Rosengartenschlucht is definitely a summer Nature highlight.  There are many trails and gorges in this little corner of Austria, hence all the canyoning opportunities. And unlike the famous Partnachklamm gorge in Garmisch, you will not be waiting in a line of people to pass.

Imst Sommerrodelbahn Or Imst Alpine Coaster

The Imst alpine coaster is a highlight of the area as it’s the longest alpine coaster in the world.  It’s 3.535 meters long. That’s 2.17 miles of wild coasting. We actually really loved the mountain tricycles in Mittenwald better because you can pass slower people on the bikes but no the coaster.

Skiing and Snowboarding

The Imster Bergbahnen ski area offers 9 km of pistes and located at the same lift as the alpine coaster in Hoch Imst.

For more ski adventure the nearby Hochzeiger Bergbahnen Pitztal ski area offers skiing and snowboarding for all levels.  They also offer toboggan runs, glacier skiing, cross country skiing, ice climbing, snow hiking, snowshoeing, ski touring, and of course, the famous Austrian Apres Ski!

Cultural

If you’re a beer lover, a visit to the Starkenberger brewery next door Tarrenz is a must when traveling to Imst. Not only are their beers excellent, but the trip up to the brewery is an experience in itself. The steep walk up is rewarded with breathtaking views and a chance to enjoy a beer tasting. 

But the brewery offers more than just beer. On-site, there’s a restaurant where you can indulge in some delicious food. For the adventurous, there’s even an opportunity to bathe in beer pools! 

And if you’re planning a large event, the brewery is the perfect venue. With its stunning views, delicious food, and unique beer pools, it’s sure to be a memorable experience for all.

River Rafting and Canyoning

Both Imst and nearby Tarrenz are a hotspot for outdoor activities including river canyoning and white water rafting.  There are beginner trips and more advanced depending on the level of intensity you prefer. 

Paragliding

Right at the same lift as the imst alpine coaster is an opportunity to go paragliding with multiple companies offering tandem flights.  You’ll need to pre book a flight.

Area 47

This  is a nearby adventure amusement park for all kinds of outdoor adventure like wakeboarding, canyoning, rafting, caving, a flying fox bungee and more.  They also have music concerts. 

Mountain Biking

All of the local ski resorts have summer lifts that will carry your mountain bike to the top so you can fly down at your own risk.

Food

1. Werkstatt Imst: This trendy restaurant serves up delicious dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The industrial decor creates a unique atmosphere that’s perfect for a night out with friends.

2. Ristorante Pizzeria La Taverna VII: If you’re in the mood for Italian cuisine, head to La Taverna VII. The pizzas are delicious and the pasta dishes are made fresh to order.

3. Gasthof Sonne: For traditional Austrian cuisine, Gasthof Sonne is a great choice. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff make you feel right at home, and the schnitzel is a must-try.

Best Places to Stay in Imst

Based on my personal experience, these are my recommendations for hotels in Imst based on your situation.

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We hope you enjoy this hidden gem in Austria! Read more of my off-the-beaten path adventure travel and hiking blogs.

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More Hiking & Outdoor Gear Resources

Here’s more awesome gear to empower your journey. I have written in-depth comparisons of products that make hiking and exploring the Great Outdoors safer and more fun, especially if you’re a beginner (or like me, a little rusty in the knees).

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Related Resources

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In conclusion, hiking in Imst is a must-do activity that offers breathtaking views and a chance to explore the beautiful Austrian Alps and the special Rosengartenschlucht waterfall hike.