The best waterfall hikes and walks around Erlaufstausee

There are over 20 dedicated waterfall hiking trails around Erlaufstausee, catering to various skill levels. These routes offer diverse experiences, from easy strolls to challenging treks through gorges and up to panoramic viewpoints.

The terrain around Erlaufstausee is quite varied. You'll find paths winding around the tranquil Erlauf Reservoir, as well as more demanding routes with significant elevation changes that lead through dramatic gorges and up to high ground, offering expansive views of the Ötscher Mountains and Gemeindealpe.

Yes, while many trails involve elevation, there is at least one easy waterfall hike available. For a moderate option that showcases natural beauty and cascades, consider the Ötschergräben Gorge – Lassing case loop from Wienerbruck-Josefsberg, which is about 6.4 km long.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, routes like the Hike between Mitterbach and Wienerbruck through gorges and over high ground offer a demanding experience. This difficult trail spans over 20 km and involves significant elevation changes, traversing dramatic gorges and ascending to high viewpoints.

Many trails lead through the renowned Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park, often called 'Austria's Grand Canyon,' where you can discover features like the Mirafall waterfall. You might also encounter the mystical Spätmann rock and legend, or the Water Trail at Erlaufklause Reservoir.

Yes, there are circular options. A popular moderate route is the Ötschergräben Gorge – Lassing case loop from Wienerbruck-Josefsberg, which allows you to experience the gorge and its cascades in a loop. Another scenic moderate loop is the View of Lake Erlaufsee – Erlaufsee loop from Museumstramway Mariazell-Erlaufsee, offering lakeside paths.

The waterfall hiking trails around Erlaufstausee are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,700 reviews. Hikers often praise the dramatic gorges, the stunning views of the Ötscher Mountains, and the diverse natural beauty of the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park.

Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. The Staplerhaus is located directly at the entrance to the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park, making it a popular starting or ending point for hikes. There's also the Erlaufstausee tavern, offering views of the Ötscher.

The region is beautiful year-round, but for waterfall hikes, spring and early summer are ideal when water levels are typically higher, making the cascades more impressive. Autumn also offers stunning scenery with vibrant foliage. While winter hiking is possible, some trails might be less accessible due to snow and ice.

The region has public transport connections. For example, the Ötschergräben Gorge – Lassing case loop starts from Wienerbruck-Josefsberg, which is accessible. Similarly, the Erlaufsee loop can be accessed from Museumstramway Mariazell-Erlaufsee, suggesting public transport options are available to key trailheads.

Yes, the Erlaufstausee region is part of a larger network of trails. Sections of the Waldmarkweg 622, which circles the district of Lilienfeld, and parts of the North-South Trail and the Mariazell Pilgrimage Path System 06, traverse this area. These longer routes can incorporate the stunning waterfall features of the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park.