Kappl - Niederelbehütte - Kappler Kopf

This scenic and varied hike leads from Kappl through the hamlet of Ulmich and up the narrow Fatlartal to the very scenic Kappler Kopf (2,404 meters) and the nearby Niederelbehütte (2,310 meters). Along the way, hikers pass many small hay barns, deep blue mountain lakes, and rushing streams. A delightful break is promised not only at the Niederelbehütte but also at the Untere Seßladalpe in an idyllic, green high valley through which the descent route runs. For the total elevation gain of 1,250 meters, good fitness is required, and sure-footedness is also advantageous here and there.
The hike starts at the church in Kappl and follows the community road inland. Ignore the first turn to the Niederelbehütte and instead walk the three-kilometer stretch to the hamlet of Ulmich. There, turn right through an alley and take the hiking trail No. 4, which now leads moderately but steadily steeply upwards towards Seßgratjoch. It goes initially through open forest, past a chapel and hay barns, and into the flower-rich Fatlartal, where the trail runs slightly above the Alschnerbach. At an altitude of about 2,000 meters, hikers pass the small Riepasee. Shortly after, there is a somewhat steeper climb to Seßgratjoch, where the path intersects with the Paznaun and Kieler High Trail. From there, either descend the short distance to the Niederelbehütte (2,310 meters), enjoy a refreshment, and then ascend over the Seßgrat to the Kappler Kopf (2,404 meters) or proceed in reverse. From the hut, it is only a 20-minute walk, and the view from the summit into the Paznauntal is fantastic.