The Yodel Hiking Trail High above Austria's Zillertal valley, about halfway between Salzburg and Innsbruck, hotelier Christian Eder recently opened what might be the world's first hiking trail devoted to the art of the yodel -- the ancient form of alpine communication that is so deeply entwined with Austrian folk music. The trail, which starts in the village of Königsleiten, is perched opposite Hohe Tauern National Park, which affords breathtaking views and acts as a majestic muse for aspiring yodellers.   The hike begins From the village, it is a short hike to the 10-minute cable car ride that lifts travellers to the top of Königsleitenspitze mountain, where the 6km-long Yodel Hiking Trail begins. Alpine summits Starting at an elevation of roughly 2,275m, the moderately challenging descent has five stations that offer lessons on how to yodel like a pro -- or at least an unabashed enthusiast. Depending on how long you linger to sing to the hills, the trek can last from just a few hours to an entire day, and can be travelled with a guide or on your own. Musical accompaniment Each of the five stations are unique, but several have audio clips featuring some of the region's top yodellers whom hikers can emulate. Station two (pictured) is a giant cowbell-shaped hut, lined inside with hanging and numbered cowbells that produce musical notes. Ring them to accompany your best yodelling. Sing with emotion Since yodelling mostly consists of an other-worldly vocabulary -- "Hoi hoi hoi, drai ho-i, ho-da ria drai du-li-jo" is a typical lyric -- it is important to sing with emotion and enough clarity to make the syllables pop, said Hermann Härtel, a yodelling instructor of 30 years from the nearby state of Styria. Seeking respite As the final station on the Yodel Hiking Trail, the megaphones double as a shady repose for weary hikers -- provided no one is about to bellow into them. If you are looking for something safer, check out the neighbouring Larmach Alm restaurant to recharge on coffee, beer or a sandwich while admiring the sweeping vista.  Village life Only about 50 people actually live in the village of Königsleiten, including Eder and his wife, who run the Castello Hotel and Restaurant. But the village has about 4,000 beds for tourists, who come in greater numbers in the winter months for skiing. (Tim Loh)