Man hiking in the Alps

Bavarian Alps, Germany

Course Code TBA

Hiking in the Bavarian Alps

Either July 5, 2024 to July 13, 2024 or July 12, 2024 to July 20, 2024

Course held during Spring II 2024

We will be doing an intermediate-level, high alpine backpacking/hut-to-hut trip in the German and Austrian alps. This involves hiking 6-8 miles/day over steep, rugged, alpine terrain, for several days in a row, stopping at different mountain huts for food and a bed each night. Each hut is run by a host family and only accessible by foot--that's what makes them so incredible! We will carry everything we need for the week in our backpacks, the minimalist-traveler approach. Hiking in the mountains like this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience for experienced hikers. We will be immersed in nature, all day every day, with spectacular views.

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Itinerary

Faculty Facilitator

Dr. Kara Mosovsky

Associate Professor and Chair, Biological Sciences

Mr. Paul Stewart

Associate Hiking Aficionado

Cost

  • Program Fee:  $1,100
  • Airfare & Transportation: $1,500
  • Self-Pay Total Cost:  $2,600
  • Elevate Total Cost:  $0
  • For all travelers:
    • Insurance Fee:  $75 charged directly to your Student Account
    • Recommended for Personal Funds: $300
    • Tuition: None, if taken in course load.

Quick Facts

  • Application Deadline:  October 15, 2023
  • Program Length:  9 days
  • Credits:  TBA

  • Eligibility: This trip is intended for experienced hikers only, or those with outstanding physical endurance. This trip is not designed for a beginner-level hiker. Participants must be willing and able to hike 6 to 8 miles on intermediate-level, high alpine trails with 2,500-3,000 ft elevation gain and loss each day, carrying a 25-40 pound backpack for several days in a row. Surefootedness and balance over rugged and rocky terrain is required. Alpine backpack & hiking gear required. Required to attend information session prior to Travel Agreement, and required to participate in group pre-trip training hikes before the application deadline. Sophomore standing or higher at application deadline.

  • Language:  English; German helpful but not required

All the landmarks mentioned in this itinerary will be visited. Some changes may be made in the order they will be visited depending upon the weather.

Day 1: Embark on an unforgettable journey as you jet off from the US to the vibrant city of Munich, ready to immerse yourself in a European adventure.

Day 2: Arrive in Munich, greeted by the charm of this cultural hub. Experience the joy of travel as you board a picturesque train from Munich to Füssen, where you'll be captivated by the fairy-tale atmosphere. Gather your final supplies, repack your backpack, and then unwind and relax at a cozy hotel/hostel in Füssen, immersing yourself in the local hospitality.

Day 3: Lace up your hiking boots and embark on an exhilarating trek from Füssen to the stunning hut Vilser Alm. Traverse the picturesque landscapes, ascending 1,500ft and descending 300ft, as you breathe in the fresh mountain air and soak in the natural beauty around you.

Day 4: Embark on another thrilling hike, this time from Vilser Alm to the charming hut Otto Mayr. Journey along through awe-inspiring ridgeline trails, conquering a 2,300ft elevation gain and reveling in a 1,400ft elevation descent. Every step will reward you with breathtaking vistas that will leave you in awe.

Day 5: Push your limits further as you hike from Otto Mayr to the enchanting hut Gimpelhaus. Ascend 2,500ft and descend 2,250ft, surrounded by majestic peaks and sweeping valleys. Each stride will bring you closer to nature's grandeur, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Day 6: Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature as you hike from Gimpelhaus to the picturesque town of Reutte. With a backdrop of towering mountains, conquer a 950ft elevation gain and a 600ft elevation loss. Enjoy a scenic gondola ride down to Hofen and take a bus back to Füssen (or Horn), where your comfortable hotel/hostel awaits.

Day 7: Embark on a fairytale-like adventure as you explore Neuschwanstein Castle, cross the iconic Marienbrucke bridge, and wander through the surrounding grounds. Marvel at the architectural splendor and lose yourself in the magical ambiance. Later, hop on a train from Füssen to Munich and settle into your welcoming hotel/hostel.

Day 8: Unleash your curiosity in the vibrant city of Munich. Roam the charming streets, indulge in delectable cuisine, and discover the rich history and cultural treasures that await at every turn. Your hotel/hostel in Munich provides a comfortable base for your explorations.

Day 9: Bid farewell to Munich, cherishing the memories created during your extraordinary journey. Board your return flight to the US, carrying with you the experiences, sights, and flavors that will forever be etched in your heart.

COVID-19 Disclaimer

COVID-19 Disclaimer: Due to the unpredictable nature of the COVID-19 Pandemic we cannot guarantee travel or entrance into a destination or a program because of COVID-19 related delays and /or closures.  In addition, should travel occur outside of the United States or between States, we cannot guarantee re-entry with or without vaccine requirement and/or quarantine as determined by the intended destination and return location. Moravian University encourages travelers to comply with the COVID vaccine entry/exit requirements as detailed by their intended destination and/or program.  Please see the complete COVID-19 disclaimer here.