Traunstein – Hike up the Guardian of the Salzkammergut

It was my first time up the Traunstein (via the Naturfreundesteig and down via the Mair Alm) and I was absolutely thrilled! 🤩 What you should bear in mind and how best to prepare for it, you can find out in this post.

I have long dreamed of the Traunstein (affectionately called Trauni or simply the Stein) and now the time had finally come.

The Traunstein is counted among the most dangerous mountains in the Salzkammergut and claims many injuries and even fatalities every year. Although that is – with very good preparation – No need to panic, but respect should definitely be maintained. Since it was personally my first time going up too, I completed the entire hike at my absolute comfortable pace. I simply didn't want to risk exhausting myself too quickly and then end up with too little energy for the descent.

I chose the route up via the Naturfreundesteig and down via the Mair Alm. That is probably the most popular loop and is definitely recommended.

⚠️ Small note: The Naturfreundesteig is not a via ferrata. It is an exposed alpine route with cable-secured sections. Climbing equipment is therefore not strictly necessary. However, anyone who wishes to use it should definitely do so. The trail is only suitable for strictly experienced, resilient and sure-footed hikers with no fear of heights. Anyone who does not meet these requirements should generally avoid choosing this trail.

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

The hike up the Traunstein via the Naturfreundesteig

The best-known ascent is probably the one via the Naturfreundesteig. Here, you’re treated to fantastic views of Lake Traunsee and the surrounding countryside throughout the hike. However, the trail is also very challenging, exposed for most of the way, and should therefore not be underestimated. Both the ascent and the descent via the Mair Alm require the utmost concentration. I would definitely not recommend the Naturfreundesteig to casual walkers for the descent. Whilst experienced walkers may find it less of a problem, I personally would not go down that route.

Since the Naturfreundesteig is also permanently in the sun, it is particularly worthwhile to start very early in the summer. Furthermore, the Naturfreundesteig is exposed throughout and has wire rope safety fixtures in a great many places. Many well-known crux sections must therefore be negotiated with the utmost caution!

After about 2.5 hours I already passed the Naturfreundehaus. Here I took the opportunity to warm up, as it was a bit windy that day, and treated myself to a Verlängerter coffee. ☕️ After that, I quickly changed my T-shirt and then hiked the next 30 minutes through a great mountain landscape to the summit cross. On this path you also pass the Gmundnerhütte, where you can of course also take a break.

The descent via the Mair Alm took about 2.5 hours. I thought the path was really great, although complete concentration was required here too.

Alternatively, you can also ascend or descend via the Hernlersteig. I'll try that next time. 🤩

Key facts about the hike up the Traunstein

If you’d like to go on the tour yourself, here’s a quick overview of the key details:

✅ approx. 12 km
✅ approx. 1,300 vertical metres
✅ my time: 5.5 hours
✅ public toilet at the entrance
✅ Car parks at the entrance (day ticket €30)
✅ Plant-based places to stop for refreshments 🌱
✅ No grazing livestock
⚠️ Only for highly skilled and experienced walkers
⚠️ Excellent sure-footedness required
⚠️ Proper route planning and stamina are essential
⚠️ Not recommended for children
⛔️ The Naturfreundesteig is not accessible with dogs
⛔️ 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.

Preparation and equipment for the Traunstein

As a general rule, you should make sure you’re fully prepared for the trip. I spent three days studying the weather – using various weather apps, webcams and cloud images. I also checked the forecast from the Unwetterzentrale every day. Of course, that might be a bit over-cautious, but I didn’t want to get stuck on the trail in a thunderstorm.

I’d also recommend tackling other mountains in the area first, so you can better gauge your own stamina. Whilst the Traunstein is technically much more demanding, the Schafberg, Brunnkogel and Feuerkogel are good starter mountains in terms of stamina and concentration. I’ve been doing sport for several years now and have already climbed a few mountains – I tackled the Traunstein at exactly the right time, as it wouldn’t have been a good idea any earlier. You simply mustn’t forget that you need experience and, above all, plenty of stamina – otherwise you’ll run out of energy quickly and end up needing help.

Recommended equipment for your hike

I can only speak for myself, but I would take the following kit with me, at the very least:

✅ Rucksack with 2 litres of water
✅ 1 to 2 spare T-shirts
✅ light jacket or windbreaker
✅ Balaclava or tube scarf
✅ Emergency bivouac and first-aid kit
✅ Snacks or small treats, such as energy bars

⚠️ The things I hadn’t brought with me and really regretted on the way down were Hiking or trail running poles. I would definitely take these with me, then.

Directions and parking facilities for the Traunstein

Access is possible both by car and by public transport. Those arriving by car should arrive on site as early as possible to secure a parking space at the Traunstein turning area. The day ticket currently costs €30 (as of summer 2026). Those who park further ahead in the free short-stay parking zone must also expect a fine of €30 after three hours.

Check out public transport right here:

Places to stop for food and drink on the Traunstein

If you fancy a bite to eat on the Traunstein, you can do so at the Naturfreundehaus. They serve drinks and hot vegan meals there. I took my break just before the summit cross. Of course, you can do that afterwards too, if you’d rather tick off your destination first. 🤗

Conclusion on the hike up the Traunstein

It was one of the finest hikes – if not the finest – I have ever done. The trail was properly demanding and the muscle soreness lasted for a few more days. The path is exposed and definitely not for the faint-hearted. At the top, however, you are rewarded with a perfect panorama. 🏞️ As already mentioned in the introduction: If you bring respect, you don't need to panic about the Traunstein.

The Traunstein is definitely being added to my to-do list for regular summits. From now on, this will definitely be my destination more often. 🙌🏼

Komoot tour to follow yourself

Further recommendation

Did you like the post? Well then, I have another great hiking tip for you! 🤩 Take a look here: Schober & Frauenkopf: Sunset hike with fantastic views