The best mountain hikes in the High Tauern

The High Tauern National Park offers over 250 mountaineering routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find everything from moderate ascents to challenging high-alpine traverses across its diverse alpine landscape.

The High Tauern is renowned for its dramatic natural beauty. Mountaineering routes often feature imposing glaciated peaks, including Austria's highest, the Grossglockner, and the expansive Pasterze Glacier. You'll also encounter pristine high alpine meadows, tranquil mountain lakes like Tauernmoossee, and untamed torrents. The region is home to spectacular waterfalls, such as the Krimml Waterfalls, Europe's highest, and unique ecosystems like the Rauriser Primeval Forest.

While many routes are challenging, there are options suitable for families looking for a less strenuous experience. For instance, the Lower Krimml Waterfall – Krimml Waterfalls Trail loop from Krimml is a moderate route that allows you to experience the stunning natural beauty of the waterfalls without extreme difficulty. Always check the route's specific details for elevation gain and distance to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.

The primary mountaineering season in the High Tauern typically runs from late June to early October, when snow conditions are generally more stable at higher altitudes and mountain huts are open. For high-alpine tours, late summer (August and September) often offers the most favorable weather. Winter mountaineering and ski touring are also possible but require specialized equipment and expertise due to snow and avalanche conditions.

Yes, many routes in the High Tauern are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Glocknerhaus Mountain Lodge – Pfandlsee loop from Margaritzenstausee, a moderate trail offering scenic views around the Pfandlsee and Margaritzenstausee. Another challenging option is the Glocknerhaus Mountain Lodge – Spielmann Summit loop from Margaritzenstausee, which provides expansive alpine vistas.

The High Tauern is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Mountaineers frequently praise the region for its breathtaking glaciated peaks, diverse alpine landscapes, and the sense of pristine wilderness. The well-maintained trails and the variety of routes, from moderate to highly challenging, are also often highlighted.

Generally, no specific permits are required for hiking or mountaineering on marked trails within the High Tauern National Park. However, certain high-alpine routes, especially those involving glacier crossings or summit ascents like the Grossglockner, may require specific equipment and experience, or the use of a certified mountain guide. Always check local regulations and conditions before embarking on challenging tours. You can find more general information about the national park at nationalpark.at.

Dogs are generally allowed on trails in the High Tauern National Park, but they must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and livestock. Some areas, especially nature reserves or specific sections of trails, might have stricter rules or be off-limits for dogs. Always check local signage and regulations for the specific route you plan to undertake. Be mindful of high-alpine terrain, which can be challenging for pets.

While popular routes can see more visitors, the vastness of the High Tauern National Park offers many opportunities for solitude. To find less crowded routes, consider exploring areas slightly off the main tourist hubs or opting for longer, more challenging tours that naturally deter larger crowds. Routes like the Salzbodensee – Auge Gottes Pond loop from Matreier Tauernhaus, while difficult, might offer a more serene experience.

For experienced mountaineers, the High Tauern offers numerous demanding ascents. The Großvenediger Summit Ridge – Großvenediger Summit loop from Kürsingerhütte is a difficult route leading through high alpine terrain. Another significant challenge is the Kleinglockner – Großglockner summit loop from High Tauern National Park, which takes you to Austria's highest peak. The region also features difficult via ferratas like the 'Kristall-Klettersteig'.

Yes, the High Tauern region has a network of mountain huts and refuges that provide essential shelter, food, and overnight stays for mountaineers. These huts are strategically located along many routes, allowing for multi-day tours. Examples include the Kürsingerhütte, which serves as a base for the Großvenediger ascent, and the Heinrich Schwaiger Haus, accessible via routes like the Heinrich Schwaiger Haus – Großes Wiesbachhorn Summit loop from Mooserboden. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season.

The High Tauern National Park is accessible by public transport, though access points vary depending on your specific destination within the vast park. Regional buses connect various towns and valleys, often linking with train stations in surrounding areas. For example, you can reach Krimml, a gateway to the Krimml Waterfalls, by bus. Planning your journey in advance using local transport schedules is recommended to ensure seamless access to trailheads.