For those who look closely, the light brown summit cross of the Gamskogel is already visible from the road – it's located at the end of the Almsee, where the Alm river springs from its outlet. From here, a direct, very steep path leads straight up to the Gamskogel.

However, we have planned our tour a little more generously and have integrated the Ameisstein, Josefshöhe, Almsee itself, and Gamskogel into our tour plan.

You absolutely have to watch my Reel about it on Instagram:

The hike to the Gamskogel and the Ameisstein, including the Almsee circular path

We started directly from the free car park right by the roadside – further back at the end of the Almsee, there are also plenty of paid parking spaces available, should nothing more be free on the roadside in the designated areas.

And so our tour began with the Ant Stone, as it was the next destination directly from our car park. Upon arriving at the Ant Stone, we walked a few more steps down to the fantastic viewpoint with the Friendship Cross on Josefshöhe.

The Ameisstein is a very easy and beginner-friendly mountain. It is short and not too steep, making it suitable for less fit people as well. Caution: It is still a mountain and a basic level of fitness and hiking experience is definitely necessary. Although the mountain is relatively easy, sure-footedness and the correct equipment are absolutely essential.

After the Ameisstein, we continued straight on to the Almsee, and before walking around the Almsee, we headed up the Gamskogel. You'll find my detailed route, which you can follow, at the end of the blog post.

A small word of caution here: the Gamskogel is only suitable for very experienced, fit, and robust individuals. While the ascent is not exposed, it is very steep and without experience, this can quickly become dangerous. It is generally suitable for dogs and children, provided they also have extensive mountain experience.

Those who decide to hike the Gamskogel will be rewarded at the top with one of the most beautiful views in the Salzkammergut. The steep and strenuous ascent is generously rewarded up here, and the effort is certainly worthwhile.

I have to say, this is genuinely one of the most beautiful peaks I've seen so far.

The crowning glory of the tour was then the Almsee circuit – the turquoise Almsee (which you could actually see from both peaks, by the way) is simply a lake that you must see with your own eyes.

Key details for the hike on the Gamskogel, Ameisstein, and Almsee loop

If you want to follow this tour yourself, here are the key details at a glance:

11.5 km
approx. 550 m
approx. 4.5 hours (incl. break)
Parking available (partially chargeable)
Suitable for very fit children & dogs
Very steep (Gamskogel) – Freedom from vertigo and surefootedness absolutely required
Ameisstein and Gamskogel not suitable for wheelchairs and prams

ATTENTION: We expressly point out that we accept no liability for accidents or possibly closed paths. Check the availability of the trail before you set off and check your own fitness.

Getting there and parking at Almsee for your hike

As mentioned above, there are numerous parking spaces around the Almsee. At the end of the Almsee, there is a large, paid car park – parking spaces along the road can currently still be used free of charge.

We approached via the Vorchdorf motorway exit, and then proceeded via the main road through Scharnstein to Almsee.

Getting there by public transport is also possible, of course.

Check out public transport right here:

Places to stop for refreshments during the hike at Almsee

There are no refreshment stops with vegan options on this hike. Should this change, I would be grateful for any information, and I will of course update it immediately. It's best to simply bring your own good snack and a nice coffee in a thermos flask – then you're definitely on the safe side.

My conclusion about the hike to Gamskogel

The Gamskogel was my absolute highlight this year. I will definitely visit it again in autumn. We were also able to enjoy a relaxed break and have a snack at the summit before heading back down to the lake.

To all those who already have skiing experience and have the right equipment at home for a steeper tour lying around, I can only suggest packing your rucksack and setting off for the Gamskogel.

Komoot tour to follow yourself

Further recommendation

Did you like this post? Then I have another great hiking tip for you! Have a read here: A real surprise: hike to the summit cross Surprise at the Kaltenbach wilderness

Der Beitrag Wanderung zum Gamskogel – Gipfel am Almsee, dem Juwel des Salzkammerguts erschien zuerst auf muats drawig.

Anyone not yet familiar with the Eiskogel should definitely mark it down now. This hike is very short, with a brief ascent and a fantastic view right from the start. After about 30 minutes, you'll have reached the summit (starting from the car park).

This summit is therefore ideal as an after-work stroll or hike for people who don't want to gain too much altitude.

Anyone looking for a short and scenic hike in the Salzkammergut should definitely remember the Eiskogel. This route is ideal, especially if you have little time or just want a leisurely stroll.

You absolutely have to watch my Reel about it on Instagram:

The hike to the Eiskogel in the Salzkammergut

We started directly from the free car park by the transmitter mast. You can find my exact Komoot tour further down this post – you can also see the starting point there.

Having reached the summit, we were once again alone and could enjoy the peace and quiet and immortalise ourselves in the summit book.

Key data for the ascent of the Eiskogel in Steinbach am Ziehberg

If you'd like to follow the tour yourself, here are the most important details at a glance:

approximately 3.2 km
190 hm
around 1 hour
Suitable for children and dogs
It is best to bring your own snacks

ATTENTION: We expressly point out that we accept no liability for accidents or possibly closed paths. Check the availability of the trail before you set off and check your own fitness.

Getting there and parking options for reaching the Eiskogel

I travelled via the Vorchdorf motorway exit and then drove via Pettenbach towards Steinbach am Ziehberg. The car park is located directly at the transmission mast – you'll find the starting point in my Komoot tour below. You can also navigate directly to the start with the Komoot app (the navigation app on your phone will open).

Getting there by public transport is also entirely possible.

Check out public transport right here:

Places to stop and eat during the hike to the Eiskogel

There are no refreshment stops on this hike. It's best to simply bring your own good snack and a nice coffee in a thermos flask – then you're definitely on the safe side.

Conclusion on the hike to Eiskogel

A truly great, small, fine, and short hike. Definitely save it and sign the summit book yourself!

Komoot tour to follow yourself

Further recommendation

Did you like this post? Then I have another great hiking tip for you! Have a read here: Hike to the Schabenreitnerstein in Steinbach am Ziehberg

Der Beitrag Kurze Wanderung auf den Eiskogel in Steinbach am Ziehberg erschien zuerst auf muats drawig.

We've been up the Großer Sonnstein and Kleiner Sonnstein a few times already – whether for sunrise, as a day trip, or just a short hike to one of the two summits as a relaxed after-work tour. And every time, I'm amazed by the brilliant view.

Anyone who has been here before knows that the large Sonnstein is more of a well-kept secret, as you usually have to go back the same way you came, which is rather unattractive for many. Alternatively, you could also walk back along the main road to the car park to avoid walking the same route twice, but who would want to do that.

This time, in conjunction with the OÖVV, I tried something new and travelled to Ebensee by public transport, before hiking from there over the Großer Sonnstein to the Kleiner Sonnstein and then catching the train again in Traunkirchen to head home. The Großer Sonnstein is hardly visited, which is why you often have the summit all to yourself here – and thanks to the good public transport connections, you don't need to walk all the way back. An absolute win-win situation. (Advertisement)

You absolutely have to watch my Reel about it on Instagram:

Directions to the hike to the Grosser and Kleiner Sonnstein

This time we travelled entirely by train. We started in Schwanenstadt and then changed trains in Attnang-Puchheim towards Selztal. Our destination station was „Ebensee Landungsplatz“. Occasionally, there's even a direct connection daily – you can check public transport connections directly in the blog post below. With the Freizeit-Ticket OÖ, you can travel through Upper Austria all day with up to two adults and 4 children for just €26.50. (Price as of May 2026) So it's definitely worth it.

The train station for the return journey is in Traunkirchen Ort, which is relatively quickly reachable from the foot of the small Sonnstein.

The journey actually took almost as long as travelling by car – and with good planning, you don't have to wait long for the next train at the station either.

The biggest advantage: you no longer have a parking problem – anyone who knows the little Sonnstein knows that there are only a very limited number of parking spaces here.

Check out public transport right here:

The hike to the Sonnstein summits on Lake Traun

We started directly in Ebensee at the landing stage, and the path is well signposted and marked throughout. Further down you will also find my detailed Komoot tour to follow yourself. Anyone travelling with small children or dogs should, after the challenging ascent to the Großer Sonnstein, rather turn back for about 15 minutes to the second-to-last junction to the Kleiner Sonnstein, as the path directly from summit to summit to the Kleiner Sonnstein is only for experienced hikers and very steep.

Construction work involving blasting is currently taking place in the mine – the hike can still be carried out as the area is not cordoned off. However, please observe the warning signs.

After the small Sonnstein, we then went to Traunkirchen to get on the train home again in Traunkirchen Ort.

Key facts about the hike from Ebensee to the Great and Small Sonnstein to Traunkirchen

If you want to follow the tour yourself, here are the most important details at a glance.

9 km
approx. 860 hm
around 4 hours
very well accessible by public transport
It is best to bring your own snacks
Possible with children and dogs

Very good endurance required
Sure-footedness absolutely required
Don't take the familiar route with small children and dogs.
Dogs require a muzzle on public transport.

Not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs

ATTENTION: We expressly point out that we accept no liability for accidents or possibly closed paths. Check the availability of the trail before you set off and check your own fitness.

Places to stop for refreshment on the hike

There are no refreshment stops with vegan options on this hike. Should this change, I would be grateful for any information, and I will of course update it immediately.

It's best to simply bring your own good snack and a nice coffee in a thermos flask – then you're definitely on the safe side.

My conclusion on the public transport hike to the Großer and Kleiner Sonnstein

I was really impressed with how easy it was to get there using public transport. We travelled on a public holiday and it worked very well even then. We were able to get there so quickly by public transport that we were completely alone on the first summit.

So, for those who like to hike trails where you don't have to walk the same route back, you should definitely try this Sonnstein hike using public transport. An absolute recommendation from me!

Komoot tour to follow yourself

Further recommendation

Did you like this post? Then I have another great hiking tip for you! Have a read here: Hike to the Schlosskogel through the Kaltenbach wilderness on Traunsee lake in Salzkammergut

Der Beitrag Mit den Öffis auf den großen und kleinen Sonnstein am Traunsee im Salzkammergut erschien zuerst auf muats drawig.

The Schabenreitnerstein is located in Steinbach am Ziehberg in the Kirchdorf district. This short hike rewards you with a great view of the surrounding mountain landscape around the village. In general, there are many great summits in Steinbach am Ziehberg that I still need to explore this year. Honestly, I hadn't really considered them until now.

You absolutely have to watch my Reel about it on Instagram:

The hike to the Schabenreitnerstein in Salzkammergut

We started directly from the public car park. You can find my exact Komoot tour further down in the post. Anyone who has been here before will notice that there is now a new path, which is very well signposted.

At the summit, we had it all to ourselves and could also enjoy the view in peace. This short tour is perfect for a quick outing.

Key details for the hike to Schabenreitnerstein

Around 6 km
500 hm
around 1 hour and 45 minutes
Suitable for children and dogs
It is best to bring your own snacks
Good basic fitness required
not possible with a pushchair or wheelchair

ATTENTION: We expressly point out that we accept no liability for accidents or possibly closed paths. Check the availability of the trail before you set off and check your own fitness.

Directions and parking for hiking up the Schabenreitnerstein

I arrived via the Vorchdorf motorway exit and then drove via Pettenbach in the direction of Steinbach am Ziehberg. The car park is located directly on the main road towards Kirchdorf – you'll find the starting point in my Komoot tour further down. You can also navigate directly to the trailhead using the Komoot app; the navigation app will open on your phone.

Getting there by public transport is also entirely possible.

Check out public transport right here:

Places to eat and drink on this hike

There are no refreshment stops on this hike. It's best to simply bring your own good snack and a nice coffee in a thermos flask – then you're definitely on the safe side.

Conclusion on the hike to Schabenreitnerstein

Definitely worth a hike here yourself! I found it to be a great, brisk after-work loop and it's also suitable for people who don't want to tackle too many metres of elevation gain. You shouldn't underestimate the climb, but it's well worth it.

Komoot tour to follow yourself

Further recommendation

Did you like this post? Then I have another great hiking tip for you! Have a read here: Car-free cycling adventure day at Lake Attersee in Salzkammergut

Der Beitrag Wanderung auf den Schabenreitnerstein in Steinbach am Ziehberg erschien zuerst auf muats drawig.

Every year around the end of April / beginning of May, the car-free cycling experience day takes place at Attersee. On this day, the Attersee will be completely closed to motor vehicles for a whole day from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, and you can fully enjoy the circular route around the Attersee by bicycle.

It is not for nothing that this day is also very busy, as everyone wants to enjoy the fantastic panorama by bicycle without getting into a dangerous situation with cars. It is also the perfect opportunity for families with small children.

Incidentally, if you don't want to suffer a cold start after the winter break, the Wahoo Kickr is the perfect preparation. I rode my bike indoors regularly over the winter and was able to thoroughly enjoy the Attersee circuit. The onboard computer in the video is also from Wahoo (ELEMNT Ace). You can find the equipment here: Wahoo Kickr Core 2 (Advertisement)
You can find my contribution to the installation and my personal impressions here: How I stay fit in winter – My training with the Wahoo KICKR Core 2

You should also check out my short Reel from the car-free cycling experience day on Instagram

Getting there and parking for the car-free cycling experience day on Lake Attersee

It is generally recommended to travel by public transport. However, for those who wish to travel by car, there are various parking options around the lake. Please note that the road around the lake is closed, but parking outside is still possible (Weißenbach, Unterach, Seewalchen, Schörfling...).

We personally usually park in the Eurospar car park right in Seewalchen, which gets filled up very quickly, however. Alternatively, you could park a bit further away and form carpools.

Check out public transport right here:

Car-free day at Lake Attersee

The car-free cycling event is always a highlight. I'm totally captivated by this event. There's nothing but good cheer here, and if the weather plays along, the panorama and the view are simply fantastic.

We usually start off with an onion outfit, which we then have to gradually take off as the sun is already very strong at the end of April. Plus, moving around also makes you sweat quite a bit.

Those who want to start later can also do so, as the lake is closed until 4:30 PM and can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace.

However, caution is advised as many cyclists and children are out and about.

Unfortunately, there is no one-way system, which means that occasionally there can be oncoming traffic. The recommended direction is anti-clockwise.

Key details of the bike tour

approx. 48 km
approx. 250 hm
Bathing facilities
Public toilets
Plenty of places to eat/stop
Please watch out for other cyclists and oncoming traffic

My conclusion on the car-free cycling experience day at Lake Attersee

I am delighted every year by the great organisation and the opportunity to cycle around the lake without cars. Shall I see you next year?

My tips for car-free cycling day

Starting early is worthwhile (the official start is at 09:30).
Take enough provisions to enjoy your breaks
Have some cash on you (for the labs).
Check the bike beforehand
Don't forget to bring sunscreen.

Further recommendation

Did you enjoy the post? Then I have another great tip for you! Have a read here: Hike to the Katzenstein peaks directly on the Laudachsee in the Salzkammergut

Der Beitrag Autofreier Rad-Erlebnistag am Attersee im Salzkammergut erschien zuerst auf muats drawig.

For those seeking a fantastic and not-too-crowded hike, these two peaks are highly recommended. The little Katzenstein is actually still a bit of a hidden gem, as there are no markers or signs here. The best part is: it's only about 20 minutes from the main summit. So this little detour to the small Katzenstein is definitely worth it!

And the best thing about it: the first stop is the beautiful Laudachsee, from which you will then have a clear view from the summits.

You absolutely have to watch my Reel about it on Instagram:

Hike to Laudachsee & Katzenstein in Gmunden

We started near the Franzl in Holz (you'll find the exact starting point in my Komoot tour below). From here, we went via forest roads and woodland paths to the first stopover: the Laudachsee.

From here, the path then continues to the ascent of the Katzenstein, where there's a steep climb for a while. The path is marked and generally not exposed. However, there are 2-3 dangerous key sections where a good head for heights and surefootedness are definitely necessary, as you have to do a fair bit of scrambling here. I wouldn't recommend this hike to anyone travelling alone with a large dog. With Shaggy (approx. 12 kg) and a second person, it worked out quite well, but at one point we had to lift him down together.

Once you get to the top, there's a fork in the path where heading left leads to the Katzenstein summit, and heading right takes you towards the small Katzenstein.

Both peaks are highly recommended!

Key information for the hike to both Katzenstein peaks in Salzkammergut

If you'd like to retrace the tour yourself, here are the key details at a glance:

Approx. 13 km
around 1100 m
around 5 hours
Caution with children and dogs (there are parts at key points where you have to scramble)
Not recommended with a dog alone
A good head for heights, excellent stamina, and a steady foot are required.
Not possible with a pram or wheelchair

ATTENTION: We expressly point out that we accept no liability for accidents or possibly closed paths. Check the availability of the trail before you set off and check your own fitness.

Wildlife on the move

Getting there and parking for the hike to Katzenstein

This time, the approach was via the Laakirchen West motorway exit (or Regau if coming from Salzburg), where you then head towards Gmunden. With my Komoot tour below, you can start navigation directly to the starting point.

We parked directly below Franzl in the woods in the free car park and started from there. You can also use the paid car park higher up and take a different route to the Laudachsee directly from here. There are many paths to the Laudachsee, so the starting point is irrelevant.

Check out public transport right here:

Places to eat and drink on this hike

There are no refreshment stops with vegan options on this hike. Should this change, I would be grateful for any information, and I will of course update it immediately. It's best to simply bring your own good snack and a nice coffee in a thermos flask – then you're definitely on the safe side.

My conclusion on the Katzenstein peaks at the Laudachsee in Salzkammergut

To be honest? I totally underestimated the hike. I thought it was going to be a leisurely, enjoyable after-work stroll, but it was more challenging than I expected. That's generally not a problem, as we are experienced and persistent, but I was expecting something else.

I can absolutely recommend the hike – it offers many great viewpoints and is also a lot of fun. I will definitely be back here.

PS: For those who absolutely want to go up with the dog, I think the Mairalm is a better option. It should be easier to hike to the Katzenstein with a dog there. (I've heard.)

Komoot tour to follow yourself

Further recommendation

Did you like this post? Then I have another great hiking tip for you! Have a read here: Hike to the Schlosskogel through the Kaltenbach wilderness on Traunsee lake in Salzkammergut

Der Beitrag Wanderung zu den Katzenstein Gipfeln direkt am Laudachsee im Salzkammergut erschien zuerst auf muats drawig.

We were recently at the summit Surprise, which can also be reached via the Kaltenbach wilderness and is a real insider tip – you can find the blog post about it here: A real surprise: hike to the summit cross Surprise at the Kaltenbach wilderness

On the way down, I then saw some people on the Schlosskogel, who were enjoying the sunset, and that's why it was clear to me that my next hike would be the Schlosskogel. Many hikers even combine both tours and go via the Kaltenbachwildnis first to the Überraschung and then to the Schlosskogel (or vice versa), thus having three great destinations with two summits on the tour.

The Schlosskogel is a very small peak with little altitude gain and is better suited for less energetic people than the Surprise. The combination with the Kaltenbachwildnis and the Schlosskogel is also ideal for people who want a summit experience but don't want to tackle many metres of altitude. It is also possible to hike only the Kaltenbachwildnis or only the Schlosskogel to save a few more metres of altitude.

Despite this, the Schlosskogel is strenuous, and sure-footedness is absolutely essential! I wouldn't do this tour with inexperienced dogs that you would have to lift in two places.

Beware of ticks in the Kaltenbach wilderness!

Ticks are a real nuisance in the Kaltenbach nature reserve, especially on the path to both peaks (Schlosskogel and Überraschung). I've never seen or experienced anything like it, and the community has also informed me multiple times about the sheer number of ticks. After the hike, I spent three hours removing around 100 ticks from Shaggy's fur – and that's no exaggeration!.

Therefore, my tip is: definitely wear long trousers and thoroughly check yourselves, children and dogs. There are also many nymphs, which look like a 1mm speck of dust, around.

Tips from the community

I've started a community survey and the most mentioned tip to protect Shaggy preventatively from ticks has been coconut oil. I'll definitely be testing this out and will update on social media about how well it works.

Please note: Before you use anything for ticks on your dog, do thorough research and ask your vet. I'm only sharing my experiences here and not giving medical advice – obviously.

You absolutely have to watch my Reel about it on Instagram:

The hike up the Schlosskogel through the Kaltenbach wilderness on Traunsee (Gmunden in Salzkammergut)

The hike up the Schlosskogel is ideal as an after-work round. As mentioned in the introduction, this summit is also suitable for beginners with good sure-footedness (as it is already partly exposed or has narrow paths). You also get a bit of a ridge feeling at the top, as you can walk along for a few metres at the highest point.

We started from the free car park right on the road (see my Komoot tour at the end of the post) and went first through the Kaltenbach wilderness and then up to the Schlosskogel.

The path to the Schlosskogel is unmarked and unsignposted. Only the beaten track is visible.

The key details are the total distance, including Kaltenbachwildnis and Schlosskogel. If you only want to do one of them, you can roughly halve the altitude gain.

Key Data for the Hike to Schlosskogel

4 km
350 hm
Around 1.5 hours
It's best to bring your own snacks
Children and dogs need to be very experienced – it’s something to scramble over and I had to be on a lead for Shaggy Lift up and down partially (it's very narrow and prone to falling at these points)
Requires very good stamina
Foot security absolutely required
Not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs

ATTENTION: We expressly point out that we accept no liability for accidents or possibly closed paths. Check the availability of the trail before you set off and check your own fitness.

Getting there and parking at Lake Traunsee near Kaltenbachwildnis

We travelled by car and like to park directly on the street at the entrance. Parking spaces are very limited and in summer, during the day, only allowed for a maximum of 3 hours (beware, checks are carried out daily and regularly). Other options include the car park at the turning circle (with public toilets), which however costs quite a bit, or possibly at Hoisn Wirt (unfortunately I don't know the conditions here).

At the end of your Komoot tour, you can directly start navigation back to the starting point by clicking the "Directions" button.

Public transport is also an option.

Check out public transport right here:

Places to stop for refreshments during the hike

There are no refreshment stops with vegan options on this hike. Should this change, I would be grateful for any information, and I will of course update it immediately. It's best to simply bring your own good snack and a nice coffee in a thermos flask – then you're definitely on the safe side.

My conclusion on the hike

I don't think it's been a secret for a long time that I'm an absolute fan of Kaltenbach Wildnis. There are already a few posts about it here on the blog, and it feels like I post Reels about it multiple times on social media. I find these hikes around the Kaltenbach wilderness have something magical about them, and this time it's even a great hike that might also be possible for less energetic people who don't want to start with the big peaks right away.

Be careful of the ticks, but otherwise highly recommended.

Komoot tour to follow yourself

Further recommendation

Did you like this post? Then I have another great hiking tip for you! Have a read here: A real surprise: hike to the summit cross Surprise at the Kaltenbach wilderness

Der Beitrag Wanderung auf den Schlosskogel durch die Kaltenbachwildnis am Traunsee im Salzkammergut erschien zuerst auf muats drawig.

I hadn't known the mountain before, but it had been on my to-do list for a long time, as the Filblingsee must be very magical. Unfortunately, due to the onset of winter, it wasn't really spectacular, but that doesn't matter – I'll just come back here in the summer.

The climb was a bit tougher than expected, but the view was well worth it – take a look:

Be sure to check out my reel on Instagram:

The hike to Filbling and Filblingsee

The start of the hike was directly at Fuschlsee from the car park. You'll find the starting point and the car park further down in my Komoot tour. From here, it's a steep climb up a narrow forest road to Filblingsee. After Filblingsee, you then have the option to continue to the summit cross. This path is rather „easy“ in terms of its condition, but you do have to climb a bit as it goes over hill and dale. At the top, you then stroll briefly along a beautiful ridge and have a fantastic view of Fuschlsee.

Key facts about the hike

7 km
650 hm
Approximately 2.5 hours
It's best to bring your own snacks
No vacancies
Suitable for children and dogs
Requires very good stamina
Not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs

ATTENTION: We expressly point out that we accept no liability for accidents or possibly closed paths. Check the availability of the trail before you set off and check your own fitness.

Directions and parking facilities

The journey was relatively easy. You can either drive via St. Gilgen towards Fuschlsee, or as I did, via the A1 motorway with the Thalgau exit. From there, it's about another 15 minutes to the car park directly on the main road. This is free of charge. You'll find the car park below in my Komoot tour (Tip: You can start the car navigation to the starting point directly within the Komoot tour – your navigation app will then open).

You can check the public transport route directly here:

Places to stop for refreshments during your hike on the Filbling

There are no refreshment stops on this hike. It's best to simply bring your own good snack and a nice coffee in a thermos flask – then you're definitely on the safe side.

My conclusion on the hike directly on Lake Fuschl

The small but excellent hike with a challenging ascent rewards you with a great little hidden lake (Filblingsee), a beautiful summit, and a fantastic view of the Fuschlsee. All in all, an unknown but definitely worthwhile summit!

So, my clear recommendation – I'll definitely be coming back here.

Komoot tour to follow yourself

Further recommendation

Did you like this post? Then I have another great hiking tip for you! Have a read here: A real surprise: hike to the summit cross Surprise at the Kaltenbach wilderness

Der Beitrag Wanderung zum Filbling und dem Filblingsee am Fuschlsee im Salzkammergut erschien zuerst auf muats drawig.

After work, Shaggy and I headed to Traunsee to go on an "surprise" hike through the Kaltenbach wildness. Yes – the summit is actually called that. For anyone who doesn't know the Kaltenbach wilderness yet: this alone would definitely be worth a visit!

Done and dusted! The hike was a real highlight, and I'd say it was one of the most beautiful hikes I've ever done. But a word of caution: although it's short, it's very steep and therefore quite strenuous.

By the way, for those who find the hike to the summit too much, I still absolutely recommend visiting the Kaltenbach Wildnis. The hike through the Kaltenbach Wildnis is many times easier and also offers breathtaking views.

You absolutely have to watch my Reel about it on Instagram:

The hike to the surprise at Kaltenbach Wildnis on Traunsee

As mentioned above, the hike is a must for all summit enthusiasts. Although the path is not marked, the beaten track to the summit cross is clearly visible, and you don't need to climb anywhere either. At most, a bit of scrambling. At the summit, the last 5 metres are exposed – extra caution is advised here.

Attention: I found the short tour to be very punchy and strenuous. It does go quite steeply uphill.

We started directly at the entrance to the Kaltenbachwildnis – you can find the exact starting point and the route as a Komoot tour further down. The entrance to the Überraschung is located immediately after the small tunnel in the Kaltenbachwildnis on the right-hand side. The entrance is not marked but is recognisable as a dirt track.

Key details for the hike to the Überraschung on Traunsee

So that you can perfectly plan the tour yourself, here's an overview of the most important information:

4.5 km
540 hectometres
Around 2-2.5 hours
Bring your own snacks
No vacancies
No marked path
very steep and strenuous
Children and dogs must be very strong.
Not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs

ATTENTION: We expressly point out that we accept no liability for accidents or possibly closed paths. Check the availability of the trail before you set off and check your own fitness.

Getting there and parking for the hike to the Überraschung on Traunsee

The journey is directly via Gmunden in the direction of Traunstein. Parking is available on the free short-term parking bays (maximum 3 hours) or the paid parking bays at the Traunstein reversing area.

With my Komoot tour below, you can start navigation to the starting point directly in the app.

You can also easily get there by public transport.

Check out public transport right here:

Places to stop for refreshments during the hike to the Surprise at Traunsee

There are no refreshment stops with vegan options on this hike. Should this change, I would be grateful for any information, and I will of course update it immediately. It's best to bring your own good snack and a nice coffee in a flask – you'll definitely be on the safe side then.

Conclusion on the hike to the surprise at Traunsee

Absolute recommendation. Anyone who has a bit of stamina will definitely get their money's worth here. The view is simply fantastic and also one of the most beautiful hikes – thanks in particular to the Kaltenbach wilderness.

Komoot tour to follow yourself

Further recommendation

Did you like this post? Then I have another great hiking tip for you! Have a read here:

Der Beitrag Eine echte Überraschung: Wanderung zum Gipfelkreuz Überraschung über die Kaltenbachwildnis erschien zuerst auf muats drawig.

The Mittagstein near Scharnstein is a great little tour with fantastic views for taking a break. The duration and distance are relatively short, but the ascent is by no means to be underestimated, as it's quite steep and tough going up to the summit.

Honestly, I didn't think I'd sweat this much. At the summit, someone also said to me: "I now know why the path is called Gschlachtl, because you get slaughtered going up it.".

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You absolutely have to watch my Reel about it on Instagram:

Hike to Mittagstein in Salzkammergut

We started directly from the car park in Steinbach am Ziehberg. You'll find the exact starting point further down on my Komoot tour – in the app, you can then also start the navigation to the starting point directly.

It went uphill from the car park straight towards the summit. I decided to go up via the Wolfswiese first and then back down via Gschlachtl. You can find the exact route at the very bottom of the post.

The hike is not exposed at any point, but it goes steeply up through the forest to the summit. Shortly before reaching the top, you have to scramble over a rocky section, but here too, it is generally not exposed and can be navigated relatively easily with increased caution.

Children and dogs must definitely be robust.

Having reached the summit, or indeed a little before, you are then rewarded with a fantastic view of the surrounding mountain landscape. We then went down via Gschlachtl, which was also another great descent.

Key data for the hike to Mittagstein in Salzkammergut

If you want to do the tour yourself, here are the most important details summarised concisely:

Approx. 7 km
approx. 660m
2.5 hours
It's best to bring your own snacks (no refreshment stops available)
Parking available (free, but limited)
Child and dog friendly
Very steep climb – very good endurance required
not possible with a pushchair or wheelchair

ATTENTION: We expressly point out that we accept no liability for accidents or possibly closed paths. Check the availability of the trail before you set off and check your own fitness.

Directions and Parking for Getting to Mittagstein in Steinbach am Ziehberg

The journey to the starting point is also relatively straightforward via the Vorchdorf motorway exit. You can start navigation directly to the starting point using the Komoot app.

Parking is free, but very strictly limited. There are only a few parking spaces, and anyone who parks outside the designated area should definitely expect a trespassing charge.

Those travelling by public transport should definitely allow more time, as you can't start directly from the entrance here, but have to walk away from the location itself. However, this also means more metres in altitude.

Check out public transport right here:

Places to stop for refreshments during the hike to Mittagstein in the Salzkammergut

There are no refreshment stops on this hike. It's best to simply bring your own good snack and a nice coffee in a thermos flask – then you're definitely on the safe side.

Conclusion on the hike to Mittagstein in Salzkammergut

So, as a brisk and challenging after-work round, the Mittagstein is perfectly suited. The distance is short, but the climb is very demanding. Perfect for a stronger workout after work.

Certainly interesting for a weekend hike at a more relaxed pace.

I can absolutely recommend the hike!

Komoot tour to follow yourself

Further recommendation

Did you like this post? Then I have another great hiking tip for you! Have a read here: Erikablüte: Hike in Hinterlobming in Upper Styria on the Matzlerberg

Der Beitrag Tolle Wanderung zum Gipfelkreuz Mittagstein im Salzkammergut erschien zuerst auf muats drawig.