The Adolf Munkel trail is the signature trek of Val di Funes. It runs almost level at the base of the huge northern walls of the Odle, swapping between spruce forest, clearings and welcoming alpine huts.
It is easy but long, ideal for fit families, with close-up views of one of the most spectacular skylines in the Dolomites.
How to get there — Parcheggio Zannes / Malga Zannes (1.685 m)
You start from the car park at Malga Zannes, at 1,685 m, at the head of Val di Funes about 5 km beyond Santa Maddalena. Drive up from Bressanone through San Pietro and Santa Maddalena to the valley floor, where the paid car park acts as the gateway to the Puez-Odle Nature Park. In summer a scheduled bus links the valley villages with the Zannes area, handy on busy days when the parking spaces vanish early. Arriving early is still the best move, both to set off at a relaxed pace and to catch the Odle walls in good light.
The trailhead is in the Val di Funes area. Check the travel guide for lift schedules, parking and access rules.
Stage by stage
1. From Malga Zannes to the base of the Odle
Climb gently through the forest until the trail opens up beneath the spires of the Odle.
2. Traverse beneath the north walls
The middle section hugs the north faces, with the peaks above you the whole time and the chance to stop at the alpine huts along the way.
3. Return via the huts
Close the loop past the panoramic huts, great for a local-food break, before heading back to the car park.
When to go & weather
The season runs June to October, with the trail clear and the huts open for a break. In summer the meadows are in bloom and the dairies are in full swing, but the north faces of the Odle stay in shade until mid-morning, so for the best photos it pays to arrive once the sun lights them up. September and early October bring warm autumn light and fewer people. It is an easy (E) but long loop, around 9-10 km with gentle ups and downs, so late in the season keep an eye on the shrinking daylight.
Recommended gear
- Hiking boots or trekking shoes with a sole that grips on the forest floor
- A rucksack with water and food for the four hours of walking
- Waterproof jacket and a warm spare layer
- Hat, sunglasses and sun cream for the open stretches across the pastures
- Trekking poles, useful on the ups and downs between Rifugio Genova and Malga Brogles
Useful tips
- Follow trail 35 beneath the walls and return on trails 34 and 36 towards the dairies to close the loop
- Treat yourself to a stop at a dairy. The Geisler Alm (Rifugio Odle) and the Gschnagenhardt Alm are popular for their home-made food
- If the full 9-10 km is too much, cut it short by turning back from one of the dairies
- Watch when the sun reaches the Odle. At mid-morning the walls light up and change completely
- Carry your own water, because springs in the forest are not guaranteed
- Keep dogs on a lead in the grazing areas, out of respect for the animals and the shepherds
Huts and rest points
- Malga Glatsch (Geisleralm) (1996 m) — Malga sul sentiero Adolf Munkel, dove si sale soprattutto per mangiare bene. Details →
Frequently asked questions
Is the Adolf Munkel trail suitable for children?
Yes, there is nothing technical. The only catch is the length, around 11 km. If you need to, shorten the loop by heading back early from one of the alms.
Are there places to eat along the Adolf Munkel trail?
Yes, the route passes several panoramic alms such as the Geisler Alm and the Gschnagenhardt Alm, open in the summer months, where you can stop for something to eat or drink. It is one of the reasons this loop works well for families too.
Is the Adolf Munkel trail a loop or an out-and-back?
It is done as a loop: you walk beneath the walls of the Odle on trail 35 and come back among the alms on trails 34 and 36. The Zannes car park is the start and finish point, and the connecting paths in between let you shorten the loop.
What is the ascent on the Adolf Munkel trail?
The total ascent is around 400 to 450 m, over gentle ups and downs across the roughly 9 to 10 km of the loop. There are no technical passages, but the length still calls for a minimum of fitness.