Hike up the small and large Sonnstein - fantastic panorama

Last week I spontaneously felt like going to the small and large Sonnstein in the beautiful Salzkammergut. It is located in the district of Gmunden near Traunkirchen, directly on Lake Traunsee.

It's been a while since I last climbed a big mountain; the Eibenberg was my last real mountain adventure. I'm usually out and about on smaller paths or running. But recently, I suddenly felt the urge to go really high again - and the small and large Sonnstein in the Salzkammergut region came just at the right time. I thought to myself, why not do something crazy and set off with Shaggy at 05:00 in the morning in the dark to experience the sunrise at the top? And what can I say - it was simply marvellous!

Directions and parking options for the hike from Traunkirchen to the small and large Sonnstein:

I was travelling with my faithful companion Shaggy again for this tour, so we decided to arrive by car. There are very few car parks right at the start of the hiking trail and they are quickly filled. We were lucky with our early time and managed to get one of the coveted spaces. If you arrive later, you usually won't find a parking space and have to use the paid car park in Traunkirchen, from where it's about a kilometre to the start of the trail.

Those who prefer to travel by public transport often have it easier. You can travel comfortably to Traunkirchen by train. From there, it is possible to climb the Kleiner Sonnstein first, then move on to the Großer Sonnstein and finally hike to Ebensee, where you can catch the train for the return journey.

Check out public transport right here:

Have a look at my reel of the hike:

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by ⛰️ Michael 🚴 and 🌱 Elyas 🏃🏽‍♂️ (@muatsdrawig.at)

Our hike up the small and large Sonnstein

Our adventure began right at the start, where we first had to climb a few steps. The path led us cheerfully through the forest until we finally reached the rocky ascent. With a little perseverance, you soon reach the summit of the small Sonnstein.

Even on the way there, you can enjoy a marvellous view of Lake Traunsee and the Traunstein. You can hear the chirping of various birds everywhere - a real nature experience!

For very motivated hikers: After a short rest on the small Sonnstein, we continued on to the large Sonnstein. This stage demanded everything from us once again. I would categorise the entire tour as moderately difficult to difficult and only recommend it to people with stamina. The last section to the Großer Sonnstein is particularly challenging with a dog, as it is very narrow and steep. I had to lift Shaggy up several times with great effort. In my opinion, a head for heights is absolutely essential on this part of the trail.

All in all, it is a fantastic tour, although it does require some experience. It is doable with fit children and dogs with plenty of stamina.

Key data of the hike

Before you set off on your adventure to the small and large Sonnstein, here are some important key points to help you be optimally prepared. The entire route requires a good level of fitness, as it not only offers wonderful views, but also some challenging passages. In addition to stamina, surefootedness is also required, especially if you have children or dogs with you. The last section to the Großer Sonnstein can be particularly challenging for dogs. Please note that the hike is not possible with a pushchair due to the steep and narrow paths.

Attention: construction work is currently being carried out on a small section of the hiking trail. Among other things, blasting work is being carried out between the small and large Sonnstein - please be sure to observe the warning signs. Walking is possible according to the current signage (as of 02/05/2024).

✅ Route length: approx. 8 km
✅ Altitude metres: around 800 hm
✅ Estimated duration: approx. 2.5-3 hours without breaks
✅ It is best to bring your own snack

⚠️ Sure-footedness: absolutely necessary
⚠️ Children: Take extra care as some of the paths are rocky and narrow
⚠️ Dogs: Please keep on a lead

⛔️ Pushchair: Not possible on this route

⚠️ 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 during the hike

Unfortunately, there are no vegan refreshment stops on this tour. It is best to bring your own snacks and refreshments. 

Summary of the hike from Lake Taferlklaussee to Lake Langbathsee

The hike up the small and large Sonnstein was a real highlight that I will remember for a long time. Not only me, but also Shaggy had great fun enjoying nature to the full. The sunrise on the summit was simply marvellous - a sight that made all the early efforts worthwhile. Admittedly, the tour was more strenuous than expected and I slightly underestimated the challenge. But at the end of the day, I am all the happier that I went for it. It was an unrivalled adventure that once again brought me and Shaggy a little closer together.

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 from Taferlklaussee to Langbathsee in the Salzkammergut