Hiking in Austria
Including Dachstein Mountains, Gesäuse National Park, and Hohe Tauern National Park. On the map.
The vibe
Austria's alpine trails weave through dramatic peaks and lush valleys, offering a mix of rugged mountain paths and gentle forest walks that feel distinct from the flat plains of other regions. The best time to hike is late spring to early autumn when trails are clear and weather mild, though winter hikes are possible with proper gear. Most trails are well marked and popular in national parks, yet remote routes still feel quiet and local.
park ticket
Dachstein Mountains
Styria
TheRunnerUp / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Dachstein massif features a unique landscape of limestone plateaus, deep karst formations, and permanent glaciers. Hikers flock here for the spectacular 'Skywalk' views and the extensive network of trails ranging from gentle plateau walks to technical via ferrata routes.
Access. Accessible via the Dachstein Cable Car from Ramsau am Dachstein or Obertraun. The area is well-connected by local mountain transport.
Notes. The glacier area requires caution; some trails are strictly for experienced climbers.
Gesäuse National Park
Styria
Doronenko / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
The Gesäuse is defined by the steep, narrow gorge of the Enns river and dramatic limestone peaks. It is a rugged park favored by serious hikers and climbers looking for steep ascents and untouched mountain landscapes.
Access. Accessible from Admont or Hieflau. The park is a bit more remote, offering a quieter hiking experience than the Tyrol regions.
Notes. Trails are generally steeper and more demanding than in other regions.
Hohe Tauern National Park
Carinthia
Manfred Schröter, Berga / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Home to Austria's highest peak, the Grossglockner, this massive national park offers dramatic alpine ridgelines, glaciers, and high-altitude meadows. Hikers can choose from challenging summit ascents or scenic high-alpine paths that offer unparalleled views of the Eastern Alps.
Access. Accessible via the Grossglockner High Alpine Road from Fusch or Heiligenblut. Numerous mountain huts serve as base camps for multi-day treks.
Notes. High-alpine conditions require proper gear even in summer; weather can change rapidly.
Krimml Waterfalls
Salzburg
Bybbisch94, Christian Gebhardt / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
As the highest waterfall in Austria, the Krimml falls cascade down in three massive tiers. A well-maintained hiking path follows the falls, allowing visitors to experience the sheer power and mist of the water from various viewpoints along the ascent.
Access. Located in the Hohe Tauern National Park, reachable via the Krimml village. The trail is steep but paved and well-signposted.
Notes. The trail is very popular; visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Podyjí National Park (Dyje River Canyon)
Lower Austria
Aconcagua / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Follow the winding Dyje River as it carves a deep, forested meander canyon through granite terrain. The trails offer peaceful valley walking, vineyard overlooks, and rich biodiversity.
Access. Trailheads begin directly from the historic town of Znojmo or Čížov.
Notes. Some border-adjacent paths have specific historical access regulations.
Silvretta Alps
Vorarlberg
Nikater / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
The Silvretta region is a high-altitude playground known for its glaciers and the scenic Vermunt and Silvretta reservoirs. Hikers can enjoy high-mountain vistas and paths that lead to the Piz Buin, the highest peak in the Vorarlberg state.
Access. Accessible via the Silvretta High Alpine Road from Galtür or Partenen. The road is a toll road but offers stunning access to trailheads.
Notes. High altitude; be prepared for cold temperatures even in summer.
Three Sisters (Drei Schwestern) Ridge
Planken
Pavel Špindler / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
This iconic alpine ridge hike marks the border between Liechtenstein and Austria, offering dramatic limestone pinnacles and panoramic views of the Rhine Valley. The trail is challenging, featuring steep sections and secured climbing passages that reward hikers with one of the most spectacular ridgeline experiences in the Alps.
Access. Accessible from the Gaflei area above Vaduz; hikers can reach the trailhead by bus or car from the capital, followed by a well-marked mountain path.
Notes. Requires a head for heights and sturdy footwear; not recommended in wet or icy conditions.
Ötztal Valley
Tyrol
Ailura / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0 at)
The Ötztal valley is a hiker's paradise, featuring everything from lush valley floor walks to demanding glacier treks. The region is famous for its 'Waalwege' (irrigation channel paths) and the high-altitude trails leading to the base of the Similaun glacier.
Access. Accessible via bus or car from the town of Ötz. Numerous cable cars provide quick access to higher elevation trailheads.
Notes. The Ötztal Inside Summer Card often covers lift access, making it easy to reach high trails.