This 35-km long valley runs in northeastern direction from the main chain of the Alps to Schönberg im Stubaital, near Innsbruck.

Below Fulpmes, the villages lie on terraces above the Ruetz on either side of the river.

South of Neustift im Stubaital, the largest side valley Oberbergtal joins from the west.

The ÖBB operates a 16-MW hydroelectric power plant in Fulpmes.

At the end of the Stubaital valley the Stubai Glacier is used as a ski resort.