The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Erlaufstausee

The Erlaufstausee region offers a wide selection of family-friendly hiking trails. You'll find over 60 easy routes and more than 80 moderate options, ensuring there's something suitable for families with varying fitness levels and ages.

Family hikes around Erlaufstausee feature diverse terrain. You can expect well-maintained paths around the reservoir, forested trails offering shade, and some routes that venture into the impressive Ötschergräben with its waterfalls. Many paths are suitable for children, but some may include slight inclines or uneven surfaces, especially when exploring the canyons.

Yes, the Erlaufstausee itself offers wonderful circular routes perfect for families. The shorter 'small' route is about 3 km and takes around an hour, while the 'large' route is about 5.5 km and takes roughly two hours. These provide serene lake views and are ideal for relaxed walks.

Absolutely! The Ötschergräben, often called the 'Grand Canyon of Austria,' features impressive waterfalls like the Mirafall and Lassingfall. While some routes through the canyons can be challenging, there are moderate options that allow families to experience these natural wonders. For example, the Watermill on the Mühlbach – Ötschergräben and Lassingfall loop from Erlaufklause is a moderate 9.6 km path that explores this area.

Along the trails, families can discover several interesting points. You might cross the Old Bridge at Erlaufstausee, explore the Water Trail at Erlaufklause Reservoir, or encounter the mystical Spätmann rock and legend. These add a touch of history and wonder to your hike.

Yes, there are options for refreshments. The Erlaufstausee tavern with a view of the Ötscher offers magnificent views and is a great spot to refuel. Additionally, the Staplerhaus at the entrance to Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park is another convenient stop.

Yes, public transport is an option for accessing some trails. The Mariazellerbahn can be used for arrival and departure, especially for routes that start or end near its stations, making it convenient for families who prefer not to drive.

The Erlaufstausee region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,700 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning lake views, the dramatic Ötschergräben canyons, and the variety of well-maintained trails suitable for different abilities, including families.

Yes, you can find routes that feature a historic watermill. The Watermill on the Mühlbach – Ötscherhias Snack Station loop from Mitterbach am Erlaufsee is a moderate 7.2 km hike that includes this charming feature, offering a lovely experience for families.

The region is beautiful year-round, but for family hiking, spring through autumn offers the most pleasant conditions. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming flowers, summer provides warm weather for lake activities, and autumn showcases stunning foliage. Even in winter, the shorter loops around Erlaufstausee can be enjoyed for a peaceful walk.

Generally, dogs are welcome on many hiking trails in the Erlaufstausee region, especially on the wider paths around the reservoir and in forested areas. However, it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in nature protection areas like the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park, and to check specific trail regulations beforehand.