4.9
(74)
604
hikers
04:36
8.36km
770m
Hiking
This difficult 5.2-mile hike in Sölktäler Nature Park offers diverse alpine scenery, passing lakes and leading to the Deneck Summit Cross.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Tips
Includes segments that may be dangerous
Parts of this route comprise highly technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience is required.
After 2.17 km for 8 m
After 2.72 km for 61 m
After 2.88 km for 2.52 km
After 5.50 km for 61 m
After 6.10 km for 8 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
1.88 km
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
2.47 km
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
4.05 km
Highlight • Summit
Translated by Google •
Tip by
7.90 km
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Translated by Google •
Tip by
8.36 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.08 km
2.66 km
442 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
7.74 km
524 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (2,350 m)
Lowest point (1,570 m)
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Weather
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Monday 11 May
3°C
-5°C
21 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
This hike is categorized as difficult and requires a good level of fitness, sure-footedness, and alpine experience. You should be prepared for significant elevation changes and varied terrain.
The specific starting point for this particular route isn't detailed, but Deneck tours often have varying starting points. Parking information would typically be found near common trailheads within the Sölktäler Nature Park. It's advisable to check local signage or park visitor information for designated parking areas.
While the Sölktäler Nature Park is known for its tranquility and lack of mass tourism infrastructure like cable cars, public transport options to reach the general area may exist. However, direct public transport to specific trailheads within the park might be limited. It's best to consult local transport schedules for the region.
This tour offers stunning and varied landscapes. You will pass by beautiful alpine lakes such as Middle Kaltenbach Lake and Upper Kaltenbach Lake. The route also leads across a high plateau and to the Deneck Summit Cross. You'll also encounter the Kaltenbach Alm and the Etrachboden plateau.
The best time for this challenging alpine hike is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, when the trails are free of snow and ice. Always check current weather and trail conditions before setting out, as alpine weather can change rapidly.
Generally, dogs are allowed on trails in the Sölktäler Nature Park, but they must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and livestock. Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and that you carry out any waste. Check for specific local regulations or protected areas that might have stricter rules.
The Sölktäler Nature Park generally does not require specific hiking permits or charge entrance fees for access to its trails. However, it's always a good idea to check the official park website for any updated regulations or specific rules for certain areas within the park.
Yes, this route largely follows the Wanderweg 10 trail for its entire length. A small section also overlaps with the Römerweg.
The terrain is varied, starting with an initial climb. You'll traverse past alpine lakes, across a high plateau, and ascend to the mountaintop. Expect rocky sections, possibly some scree, and alpine meadows. Sturdy shoes and sure-footedness are essential.
The Sölktäler Nature Park is known for its tranquility, being free from mass tourism and cable cars, offering pristine peaks and crystal-clear waters. It's an ideal location for those seeking peace and rejuvenation amidst untouched nature, with rich biodiversity and unique geological features.
The Kaltenbach Alm is located along the route and may offer refreshments during its operating season. However, it's always recommended to carry sufficient water and snacks for the entire duration of this challenging hike, as services might be seasonal or limited.
From the parking lot at the Erzherzog Johann Hütte on the Sölkpassstraße follow the markings on the Römerweg to the Kaltenbachalm. On the sometimes fairly water-bearing risers, you then go up to the Untern, then to the Mittleren and then with a powerful upswing to the Oberen Kaltenbachsee. On the crest or ridge then further up to the Schafspitze with indescribably beautiful views. Past the later turnoff, the last ascent to Deneck follows, which is no less steep but consistently unproblematic. The descent variant without a sheep tip is much more comfortable. The flow of visitors to and from the Kaltenbach lakes has at least something entertaining due to the often delicate pink princess shoe culture. Past the Kaltenbachalm and the Erzh.Johann Hütte (closed Wed, Thu, Fri) then to the nearby and always open Winkleralm🍺🥘
Very nice hike. Sure-footedness and a head for heights are basic requirements, then it's fun
My favorite tour this week The Sölktäler Nature Park piqued my interest last year It can also be classified as suitable for families up to the 3rd lake Up at the Schafsspitze, please only hike if you are not afraid of heights and have a sure footing Danger of falling! A narrow ridge goes to the right I didn't go up to the Denek... 1. It looked like a thunderstorm ⛈🌩 2. I wanted to enjoy the time at the 2nd and 1st lake 🏊♀️🏊♂️ Swimming is not possible at the 3rd lake, it's more of a mud bath On the way home I stopped at the Ödwirt The mixed salad with turkey, delicious
Brilliant hike in wonderful weather in September - ❤️ what more could you want? This hike from the Sölkpassstraße to the 3 Kaltenbach lakes definitely requires surefootedness and stamina, but it's worth the effort! The advantage here is of course the high starting point and the short distances. You can reach the first lake in 25-45 minutes and you can linger there and enjoy the lake or turn back! The same applies to the next two lakes and the high plateau above the third lake can be reached even faster. If you still want to go to the summit of Deneck from here, you have to plan another 1-2 hours and also take into account that it is a little more elevated here a few times. But the summit victory is definitely worth it here and there is enough space for many hikers at the summit. Conclusion: unforgettable views, pleasant temperatures at the summit and a refreshing jump into the cool water were a must!
Start point is equal to end point. I started recording too late. Wonderful tour on the Deneck along 3 mountain lakes