Insider tip: Hike up the Geisswand and Baalstein in Traunkirchen in the Salzkammergut region

In mid-February, Shaggy and I climbed the Geißwand and the Baalstein with a direct and fantastic view of the Traunsee, the Traunstein and the surrounding mountain landscape.

The short, but nevertheless very crisp hike was perfect for a spontaneous hike up to a summit in the Salzkammergut on a Friday afternoon. The hike itself is a real insider tip in the Salzkammergut. The tour is just about 4 km there and back with 400 metres of elevation gain on the 2 km outward journey. This means that, despite the relatively short hiking trail, we really did something for our thighs. 😄

The view from the Geisswand couldn't have been more beautiful. It was still raining a little on the outward journey, but by the time we reached the summit the view was already beautiful and spring-like. The last section to the Geisswand summit cross is generally possible with a child and dog, but increased caution is definitely required. The dog definitely needs to be mountain-savvy and I had to lift Shaggy down from the high places on the way back - you shouldn't underestimate that under any circumstances. If necessary, simply skip the Geisswand and just hike to the viewpoint at Baalstein. 🏞️

I've already posted a reel about it - why don't you take a look?

Directions and parking options for the hike up the Geisswand in Traunkirchen im Salzkammergut

The classic approach is via the main road. I came from Regau, which is also where the A1 motorway goes to, and then I took the main road through Gmunden and Altmünster. Just before the tunnel in the direction of Ebensee, simply turn left and you will reach the first car park. There are cheap and sometimes free car parks here.

However, I parked directly in the town, as the view of the lake directly from the car park is a dream. I paid around 6 euros for 3 hours of parking here. If the maximum duration of 3 hours is too short, then simply park outside in the other car parks.

Alternatively, travelling by public transport is also very easy. Traunkirchen is easily accessible by bus and train.

Check out public transport right here:

Hike in Traunkirchen in the Salzkammergut: Baalstein and Geißwand

Shaggy and I started the tour directly from the car park in Traunkirchen. Below you can also find our Komoot tour to follow yourself. 🚀

The first section leads up a few steps towards the forest. Attentive hikers will also spot a very funny statue of a genitalia in the garden of the Russian villa on the first few metres - definitely makes you smile, I promise. 😄

The hike itself is really great - it leads through the forest throughout, but it is quite steep uphill. It's generally suitable for children and dogs, but they definitely need to be fit and experienced, as you have to be very careful at the top, otherwise it can quickly become dangerous. There are two places where it's a bit of a scramble and I even had to lift Shaggy, my mountain-experienced dog, up and down. 🐾

Key data for the hike to the Geißwand and the Baalstein

So that you can plan the tour yourself, here is the most important information at a glance. ⛰️

✅ approx. 5.5 km
✅ approx. 400 hm
✅ around 2 hours
✅ No refreshments available at the summit - it's best to bring your own snacks
✅ Car parks available at the entrance, mostly for a fee, only a few free ones
✅ Public toilet available at the car park
Suitable for children and dogs (increased caution and experience required)

⛔️ not possible with pushchair or wheelchair

⚠️ ATTENTION: We expressly point out that we accept no liability for accidents or possibly closed trails. Before hiking, check the availability of the trail and reflect on your own fitness.

Refreshment stops on the hike in Traunkirchen im Salzkammergut

In Gmunden in general, there are several places to stop for a bite to eat. Although there are no huts or similar along the hiking trail, plant-based dishes are no longer an exception here in Gmunden. For example, Piu Ma offers delicious snacks, Le Burger has great vegan burgers and La Sonett is also a little insider tip. 🤗

If you don't want to go to a restaurant after the hike, it's also suitable beforehand, as the hike is relatively short, or at a takeaway afterwards, for example at Le Burger. 😄 In any case, you won't be left without food in the Gmunden area.

Summary of the hike to the Geißwand and the Baalstein in Traunkirchen

So the hike up the Geißwand and the Baalstein view was definitely a highlight this year. A short and challenging hike with great views and a beautiful forest path. Perfect for an after-work round or a spontaneous hike in between. ✌🏼

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: Insider tip in the Salzkammergut: Hike up the Vorderer Signalkogel