August 23, 2026, 5:23 am | Read time: 3 minutes
The Alps are noticeably changing: Higher temperatures, melting permafrost, and unstable slopes are making many mountain tours more challenging than just a few years ago. Those who want to travel safely should no longer rely solely on past experiences. Experts from the German Alpine Club (DAV) explain which factors are crucial for tour planning today.
Risks in the High Mountains Are Increasing
Heat waves at high altitudes, freezing levels above 4,000 meters, and thawing permafrost are significantly changing conditions in the Alps. According to the DAV, traditional knowledge about routes and seasons is often no longer sufficient. Careful planning and the willingness to adapt flexibly to changes are more important than ever.
Conditions change rapidly, especially above 2,500 meters. Rockfalls occur more frequently, scree fields become more unstable, and well-known access routes can change significantly within a few years. Larger rock and mountain slides, such as those recently seen on the Matterhorn or in the Mont Blanc region, are also among the potential dangers.
Also of interest: How the Alpine Club is tackling inconsiderate hikers
Keep an Eye on Weather, Warnings, and Closures
According to the DAV, entire mountain seasons are shifting due to climate change, while weather and terrain conditions are becoming harder to predict. However, mountaineers do not have to forgo tours if they adjust their preparation to the new conditions.
Important factors in planning include:
- current weather forecasts
- the weather patterns of recent days and weeks
- current warnings
- trail closures and erosion-related restrictions
To stay up to date, the DAV recommends using websites, webcams, and social media channels of mountain huts or regional tourism organizations. The Alpine Club also provides current information for tour planning on “alpenvereinaktiv.com” under the “News” section.
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Heat Can Become a Burden
Not only rockfalls or unstable slopes pose a risk. High temperatures can also strain the heart and circulatory system. Therefore, the DAV recommends an early start to the day. Additionally, the current situation should be regularly reassessed throughout the tour.
It is also crucial to be willing to change original plans. Those who want to travel safely should consider alternatives during preparation. “Alternative routes and a Plan B should now be a standard part of any tour planning,” says the DAV.
AI Can Help–But Not Take Control
Applications with artificial intelligence can also be useful for initial orientation, such as route suggestions or finding accommodations. According to a survey by the industry association Bitkom, 15 and 17 percent of respondents have already used this on vacation. Forty-one and 44 percent can imagine such use in travel planning.
However, Bitkom points out that AI information should always be verified. “Especially on hikes, conditions on the ground can change quickly. Therefore, AI recommendations should always be cross-checked with current maps, weather information, and closure notices,” says Lucy Czachowski, Bitkom’s artificial intelligence consultant.
A residual risk will remain in the future. Current information, flexible planning, and continuous assessment of the situation on the ground are among the most important prerequisites for mountain tours in the Alps today.
With material from dpa