On the way in the footsteps of smugglers and customs officers
The Smuggler’s Trail runs from the Isler in Oberjoch on the German side to the Wannenjoch in Tyrol. The fact of hiking across the border would be exciting enough for the kids. But it gets even better. Because of its proximity to Austria, the area was once a popular smuggler’s trail. Now families can discover the trail on an adventure hike in the Allgäu region.
On the Smugglers’ Trail, children get to take on the role of smugglers or border guards and complete tasks at the game stations to match. The smugglers’ goal is to smuggle the smuggler’s bag (available at the valley station) into Austria. The guards try to get their hands on it. You can get a tour description and utensils for the game at the valley station of the Islerbahn.
Then it can start. Families who like to run start at the valley station. Over the crispy-steep serpentines past pastures and a small stream for splashing, it goes in 40 minutes up to the Wiedhag Alpe. At the hut you can enjoy Allgäu specialties and walk directly on to the Schmugglersteig. A playground with trampoline and climbing wall provide enthusiasm for the children.
Families who prefer to save their energy for the Smuggler’s Trail take the Islerbahn to the mountain station and from there they set out on their own. By the way, this trail also leads past the Wiedhag-Alpe. So no one has to go hungry.
On the good four kilometers of the Schmugglersteig there is a unique mountain panorama to admire. The path is partly narrow and steep. Surefootedness and good shoes are a must for hikers young and old. In the smuggler’s nest you can take a short break along the way.
Once you reach the Austrian side, take the Wannenjochbahn to the valley and from there take the hourly bus (you will get the departure times with the tour description) back to the Islerbahn parking lot.
Around-the-corner tip: The Krötz farm & cheese dairy is 15 minutes away by car. For the end of a hiking day, the farm with play barn, petting zoo and homemade cakes is the perfect destination.
We were allowed to discover this favorite place as part of our cooperation with Allgäu GmbH.
