Austrians have made sure that trails, maps, guides, campgrounds and hiker huts ensure the best access to a quality hiking experience, while maintaining the land's rich natural beauty. Ever since the 1860s, when the active exploration of nature and the environment first became a popular notion and when hiking and mountain climbing turned into recreation and sport for a large number of people, the Austrian Alps have been a paradise for the outdoors-oriented. Alpine clubs and societies were founded, equipment was invented and refined, paths and trails were marked and secured, guides and maps were compiled and an outstanding system of mountain huts was established. As a matter of fact, camping out overnight is strongly discouraged in the Austrian Alps, both for reasons of rapidly changing weather conditions and of the established system of keeping track of hikers and climbers in the mountains. Hiking and climbing trips may be planned so as to depart from one hut in the morning, have lunch at the next one and arrive at the third one before sunset or, alternately, return to the same hut in late afternoon.
Mountain huts provide food and shelter for hikers in varying degree of comfort.
Some huts are quite simple offering bunk space in a dormitory style setting, others are lavish mountain lodges with full restaurant facilities in addition to private rooms. Huts must accommodate all persons present at nightfall, with members of the Alpine club or association maintaining the hut having first priority. Rooms with beds are usually limited and bunk space is in much better supply. For those interested in exploring the Austrian Alps hiking, climbing or simply walking, there are a number of outstanding resources available. Practically any Austrian resort and village in the Alpine region is offering day hikes and assistance for travelers.