A real surprise: hike to the summit cross Surprise at the Kaltenbach wilderness

The name says it all. Both on the ascent and at the summit of surprise, a dreamlike view of the Traunsee lake and the surrounding mountains awaits you. 🤩🏞️

After work, Shaggy and I headed to Traunsee to go on a hike through the Kaltenbachwildnis to reach the "Surprise". Yes – the summit is actually called that. 😄 For anyone who doesn't know the Kaltenbachwildnis yet: it would definitely be worth a visit on its own!

Done and dusted! The hike was truly a highlight; it was, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful hikes I've ever done. But be warned: although it's short, it's very steep and therefore quite strenuous. 💪⛰️

By the way, if the hike to the summit is too much for you, I would still definitely recommend visiting the Kaltenbach Wildnis. The hike through the Kaltenbach Wildnis is many times easier and offers just as 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 signposted, the trodden path to the summit cross is very clear, and you don't need to climb anywhere. A bit of scrambling at most. 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 hm
✅ Round 2-2.5 h
✅ Bring your own snack
✅ No reported vacancies
⚠️ No marked path
⚠️ Very steep and strenuous
⚠️ Children and dogs must be very patient
⛔️ Not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs

⚠️ 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.

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

The journey is directly via Gmunden in the direction of Traunstein. 🚗 You can then park in the free short-term parking areas (maximum 3 hours) or in the paid car parks at the Traunstein funicular station.

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

You can also easily arrive 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 vegetarian options on this hike. If this changes, I'd be happy to be informed so I can update it immediately. ⛰️ It's best to simply bring your own good snack and a fine coffee in a thermos flask – then you're definitely on the safe side. 🥪☕️

Conclusion on the hike to the surprise at Traunsee

Absolute recommendation. 🤩 Anyone with 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: