Katergebirge traverse using public transport – 4 peaks in Bad Ischl in the Salzkammergut

By far one of the most wonderful hikes I've ever done. The Katrin mountain range traverse in Bad Ischl with 4 peaks: Katrin, Elferkogel, Hainzen and Roßkopf – descent via Lake Nussensee.

This time we decided to traverse the Katrin mountain range in Bad Ischl, and to avoid having to return to the starting point, we travelled by public transport. This blog post was created in cooperation with OÖVV. (Advertisement)

The hike was an absolute highlight – the weather was fantastic and the views all the way across the ridge walk were simply mega! 🤩⛰️ During the traverse, you are also on the 7-Lakes circuit and therefore have a perfect view of the Salzkammergut lakes.

⚠️ The hike is only suitable for experienced hikers with a very good head for heights and stamina. My route (at the end of the blog post) leads via an easy via ferrata, which is very exposed. However, this path can be bypassed. Proper equipment and a realistic self-assessment are absolutely essential here.

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

Directions and parking facilities for getting to the Katergebirge ridge traverse using public transport

We travelled by public transport this time, which saved us having to look for a parking space and also returning to the starting point. We took the train from Gmunden to Bad Ischl (Lauffen), where the hike started right away. After crossing the ridge, we arrived at the bus stop in Ramsau, where a bus runs to Bad Ischl station every 30 minutes on Sundays (and otherwise every 15 minutes) (duration: 10 minutes). From there, it's an easy train ride back to Gmunden. 🚆

The cost for 2 adults and up to 4 children is a total of €26.50 with the Upper Austria Leisure Ticket. This is valid for 24 hours throughout Upper Austria for all regional trains, buses and trams.

🚉 Starting point: Lauffen station
🚏 Destination: Bus stop Bad Ischl Ramsau B158 on route 150 (towards Bad Ischl station)
🚆 Return journey: Bad Ischl station

Check out public transport right here:

The Katergebirge ridge traverse – Katrin, Elferkogel, Hainzen and Roßkopf via Lake Nussensee

Directly at Lauffen railway station, the hike starts in the direction of Katrin. The hike is signposted throughout and, until you arrive at the cable car station, it is also continuously through the forest, which makes the ascent immediately more pleasant. The tour is quite steep the whole way, which is why good stamina is required.

Arriving at the cable car station, you continue straight over the Katrin-Herz to the first peak, which is directly to the summit cross of the Katrin itself. ⛰️

The next peak up is the Elferkogel, which is reached relatively quickly, and from there it goes straight on to the Hainzen, where we also took our first planned snack break, as the view of Lake Wolfgang and the Schafberg is simply fantastic here. 🤩

From the Hainzen, we now headed towards the Roßkopf. A challenging path starts here, which is even marked as a via ferrata in Komoot. Increased caution is required here, as it is quite exposed and there is a risk of falling. Climbing equipment is recommended here. Alternatively, this section can also be bypassed. ⚠️

Arriving at the Roßkopf, the route then heads back down via a gorgeous mountain pasture and a small viewpoint rock named the „Jodelstein“. 🏞️

The descent then proceeds via the Nussensee – I have attached my exact Komoot tour below in the post.

Key data for the Katergebirge crossing

Here you can find the key data for the hike so that you can do the tour yourself:

✅ approx. 17 km
✅ ~1,400 m ascent
✅ Around 7.5 hrs incl. breaks
✅ Possible by train & bus (great connections)
⚠️ Increased caution with dogs and children (only possible for very experienced children & dogs – I would rather advise against it)
⚠️ In places, very exposed sections
⚠️ Seasonal livestock grazing (we didn't encounter any)
⛔️ 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.

Places to stop for food and drink during the hike on the Katrin

Unfortunately, there are no refreshment stops with a plant-based selection on this tour. Should this change in the future, I will of course update the post. Therefore, I recommend bringing your own snack to enjoy at the Hainzen, for example. 🥪⛰️

Conclusion on the traverse over the Katrin

That was by far one of the nicest tours I've done this year. The climb was in the shade the whole way and the hike along the ridge was simply gorgeous. Because it's so easy to get to by public transport, I didn't have any stress with parking spaces or parking fees either. My absolute recommendation for this tour! 🤩🙌🏼

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: By public transport to the large and small Sonnstein on Lake Traun in the Salzkammergut