The route runs along the broad, wooded ridge between the Eggental valley and Tiers. The path consists entirely of forest tracks with a natural surface. The route is mostly flat, with some gentle ascents and descents, winding through magnificent spruce forests and wide clearings that offer wonderful views of the Rosengarten massif and the ‘organ pipes’ of the Latemar. The Hagneralm is situated on a hilltop with panoramic views overlooking the upper Eggental valley.

Accessibility

From Bolzano Nord, head through the Eggental valley towards the Karer Pass. Just before the pass, take the road on the left towards the Niger Pass. You can park near the pass or at the Niger Joch Haus mountain inn.

Description

From the car park near the pass (1,690 m), we cross the main road and follow the gently ascending forest track, which starts on the left-hand side of the Niger Joch Haus mountain inn. After a barrier, which can only be bypassed with some difficulty, we follow the signs towards Schillerhof and Hagneralm. The road, with a firm natural surface and gravel, winds almost flat across the mountain range and leads slightly downhill at the start, then slightly uphill for a longer stretch, up to the Sagerer Schwaige (1,630 m). After further twists and turns through a shady coniferous forest, we reach a wide clearing with a small hut, from where there is a magnificent view of the Rosengarten and the Latemar. The path continues slightly downhill to a junction, where a signpost directs us towards the ascent to the Hagner Alm (reachable after 900 m): however, it is advisable to continue straight ahead to avoid this very steep descent on a gravel surface. After a few hundred metres, we reach another signpost for the Hagner Alm. Here we turn left and follow the gently ascending path marked No. 4A. The final section of the trail is almost flat again all the way to the Hagner Alm (1,590 m). As well as offering magnificent views, the alp, with its homemade produce and numerous farm animals, provides a welcome place to stop for a break for young and old alike. The return to the Niger Pass follows the same route.