Top 5 Easy Hiking Trails in Austria
Posted by Ericka Cordero
9 min read
Updated: Dec. 2, 2024
Looking for easy yet stunning hiking day trails in Austria? You've come to the right place!
Whether you're a nature lover, planning a family trip, or just starting out with hiking, Austria offers breathtaking trails for everyone.
In this guide, I'll share my top picks, perfect for all ages and fitness levels. You'll also get practical tips on entry fees, the best places to stay, where to grab a delicious meal, and how to get there by car or public transport. Get ready to explore Austria's natural beauty like never before!
1. Discover the Beauty of Tscheppaschlucht: Hiking in Carinthia
Tscheppaschlucht is a breathtaking gorge in Carinthia, perfect for hikers of all levels. This scenic trail takes you across wooden bridges and walkways surrounded by waterfalls and stunning rock formations that look like nature's art.
While the landscape is spectacular, some challenging sections may require extra caution for families with young children or those bringing dogs.
Trail Details
- Difficulty Level: Beginner-friendly, with some physically demanding sections.
- Location: Ferlach, Carinthia.
- Opening Hours: May to October, 9 AM to 6 PM.
- Entry Fee: €9.
- Family-Friendly: Yes, with supervision.
- Pets: Allowed, but must be on a leash.
- Parking: Available, €5 per day.
- Hiking Duration: The main trail is 1.5 km, taking 1.5 to 2 hours. A bus can take you back to Ferlach after the hike.
- Start and Finish Points: Begin at the Tscheppaschlucht parking lot and end at Gasthof Deutscher Peter, where buses depart for the return journey. At the start of the trail, navigation can be tricky, if arriving by public transport, ask your driver for directions to the entrance.
What to Do Near Tscheppaschlucht?
- Ferlach: Just 12 km away, explore the Bodental Nature Park for more hiking opportunities or enjoy a stroll through the historic town center and admire traditional architecture.
- Klagenfurt: Carinthia's capital city is ideal for relaxing by Lake Wörthersee, exploring the old town, or visiting the charming botanical gardens, which are free to enter.
Where to Stay Near Tscheppaschlucht?
- Ruhe am Wald – Zentral und Wörthersee (Klagenfurt): From €92 per night.
- Gasthof Hotel Zur Post (Ferlach): From €158 per night.
- Airbnb: Options start at €21 per night in nearby villages, though some accommodations are up to 28 km from Klagenfurt.
- Couchsurfing: For budget-friendly, unique stays with locals, offering a chance to make connections and enjoy a home-cooked meal.
Where to Eat Near Tscheppaschlucht?
- Gasthaus Kirchenwirt: Authentic Austrian dishes starting at €10-15, just 2 km from the park.
- Da Vinci Restaurant (Klagenfurt): Croatian cuisine with meals ranging from €9 to €15.
Getting to Tscheppaschlucht by Train or Bus
- From Klagenfurt Central Station, take the S-Bahn S3 train to Ferlach (around 30 minutes).
- From Ferlach station, hop on bus 142 to the Tscheppaschlucht entrance (about 20 minutes).
- Follow the signs from the bus stop to the trail entrance, it's easy to find.
For schedules and tickets, visit the Verkehrsverbund Kärnten website.
2. Raggaschlucht: Adventure in the Gorges of Carinthia
Raggaschlucht is famous for its narrow gorges and the spectacular roar of its rushing waters. The trail, well-maintained with walkways and bridges, makes this natural wonder accessible to everyone.
Make sure to pack a warm layer and sturdy shoes! The waterfalls create a cool mist, and the wet wooden paths can be slippery. With a bit of caution, this is a highly enjoyable experience, especially in the morning.
Trail Details
- Difficulty Level: Easy, though some sections can be a bit steep.
- Location: Flattach, Carinthia.
- Opening Hours: May to October, 9 AM to 5 PM. Limited weekend access in winter.
- Entry Fee: €8.
- Family-Friendly: Yes, with supervision.
- Pets: Allowed, but must be on a leash.
- Parking: Free but limited in capacity.
- Hiking Duration: 1 to 2 hours for the 800-meter gorge trail. The full circuit, including the return, is around 3 km.
- Start and Finish Points: The loop starts and ends at the main entrance near the Flattach parking lot and visitor center. The return path is well-marked.
What to Do Near Raggaschlucht?
- Lienz: Close to the Italian border, this charming town offers a historic center and Bruck Castle, where the gardens are free to explore.
- Klagenfurt: The capital of Carinthia is worth visiting for its cultural and natural attractions.
- Villach: The second-largest city near the park, perfect for a stroll along the Drau River or a visit to St. Jakob's Church, both free activities.
Where to Stay Near Raggaschlucht?
- Hotel Holunderhof (Lienz): Around €189 per night for premium comfort.
- SmartRooms24 (Villach): Budget-friendly option at €45 per night.
- Slovenia: Consider staying across the border in Slovenia, about a 1.5-hour drive away, where accommodations are often more affordable.
Where to Eat Near Raggaschlucht?
- Heimo Suntinger – Restaurant Café Zimmer: Located nearby, serving Austrian dishes starting at €12–15.
Getting to Raggaschlucht by Train or Bus
- From Spittal-Millstättersee: Take a train to Mallnitz-Obervellach (20 minutes).
- From Lienz or Klagenfurt: Take a train to Mallnitz-Obervellach (1.5 hours).
- From Mallnitz-Obervellach: Board the local bus (line 5108) to Flattach (20 minutes).
- From Flattach: Follow the signs to the Raggaschlucht entrance on foot.
For schedules and tickets, check the Verkehrsverbund Kärnten website for local bus services.
3. Wolfsklamm: A Unique Gorge Adventure in Tyrol
Wolfsklamm is a breathtaking gorge, where wooden walkways offer stunning views of cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear streams. The path is well-maintained, but be prepared for a bit of a climb, it's worth the effort for the incredible scenery.
Start early to experience the peaceful atmosphere, and if you're feeling adventurous, take a quick dip in the icy streams!
Trail Details
- Difficulty Level: Easy.
- Location: Stans, near Schwaz, Tyrol.
- Opening Hours: 8 AM to 6 PM, April to October (hours may be reduced in winter).
- Entry Fee: €5.
- Family-Friendly: Yes, with supervision.
- Pets: Allowed, but must be on a leash.
- Parking: Free.
- Hiking Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours, round trip, 3 km.
- Start and Finish Points: From Stans station, follow the signs to the entrance of the gorge.
What to Do Near Wolfsklamm?
- Innsbruck: Stroll through the charming old town, visit the imperial gardens, and enjoy panoramic views from Bergisel. History buffs can visit free museums on the first Sunday of each month.
- Schwaz: Explore the lively main square and enjoy the weekly market.
Where to Stay Near Wolfsklamm?
- Montagu Hostel (Innsbruck): From €55 per night in a dorm.
- B&B Hotel Heimgartl (Innsbruck): €109 per night for a comfortable room.
- Gästezimmer Schwaz Panorama (Schwaz): €76 per night with great views.
- Couchsurfing: A budget-friendly, social option for meeting locals.
Where to Eat Near Wolfsklamm?
- Park Grill (Schwaz): Enjoy a delicious cheese bosna starting at €5.
- Self-Service Restaurant Steiner: A cozy spot near the park entrance, offering local Austrian dishes like Wiener Schnitzel, with prices between €9 and €15.
Getting to Wolfsklamm by Train or Bus
- From Innsbruck: Take a train from the main station to Schwaz (about 30 minutes).
- From Munich: Take a train to Jenbach (1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the train).
- From Jenbach: Take a direct train to Schwaz (15 minutes).
- From Schwaz: A local bus will take you to Stans. Once there, follow the signs to the trailhead.
4. Krimml Waterfalls: An Unforgettable Hike in the Salzburg Region
Krimml is renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls and the thunderous roar of the water. The well-maintained trail, complete with walkways and bridges, allows easy access to this remarkable natural site.
Arrive early to avoid the crowds. The hike includes some challenging sections, but the effort is well worth it, even if you don't reach the top. There are plenty of photo stops and wet spots along the way, making it a fun adventure, especially for families.
Trail Details
- Difficulty Level: Easy, though some uneven surfaces and steep sections may be difficult for those with limited mobility.
- Location: Krimml, Salzburg region.
- Opening Hours: 8 AM to 6 PM in summer, with reduced hours in winter.
- Entry Fee: €8.
- Family-Friendly: Yes, with supervision.
- Pets: Allowed, but must be on a leash.
- Parking: Available for about €10.
- Hiking Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace.
- Start and Finish Points: The trail begins at the Krimml visitor center.
What to Do Near Krimml Waterfalls?
- Zell am Ziller (about 20 km east): A great starting point for outdoor activities in the Zillertal Alps, including the Zillertal Nature Park and Zillergrund Waterfalls.
- Gerlos (about 20 km east): Explore free trails like the Höhenweg Gerlos, known for its rich local wildlife and plant life.
- Mayrhofen (about 30 km southeast): Enjoy alpine trails in the Ahorn Nature Reserve, free guided tours, or relax at the Alpine Coaster Park with panoramic views.
Where to Stay Near Krimml Waterfalls?
- Apartments Kolmblick (Gerlos): From €223 per night.
- Hotel Sieghard Zillertal (Mayrhofen): From €160 per night.
Where to Eat Near Krimml Waterfalls?
- In Krimml: Try Pizzeria Cascata, with dishes starting from €10.
- In Mayrhofen: Erlebnisbad Restaurant offers quality fast food, with prices ranging from €10 to €15.
Getting to Krimml Waterfalls by Train or Bus
- From Salzburg: Take a train from Salzburg Hauptbahnhof to Zell am See, then transfer to another train to Krimml (approximately 2.5 hours).
- From Innsbruck: Take a train from Innsbruck Hauptbahnhof to Zell am See, then transfer to another train to Krimml (approximately 2.5 hours).
- From Zell am See: A direct train to Krimml takes about 1.5 hours.
- From Krimml Station: Follow the signs to the waterfalls or take bus 670 (schedules vary by season).
For more information on local buses, visit the Verkehrsverbund Tirol website.
5. Hike at Kesselfallklamm: Nature and Waterfalls in Styria
Kesselfallklamm is a scenic hike through a stunning canyon with waterfalls and unique rock formations. The trail is well-marked and accessible for families with older children.
I was looking for an easy hike, as I'm not an expert. This park, with its short trails, was perfect. It's beautiful, and I really enjoyed it, but I wouldn't recommend it if you have knee problems, as there are lots of steps. Seriously, there are so many that I felt like I was in a Shaolin monk workout. Definitely wear non-slip shoes, as some parts can be slippery.
Trail Details
- Difficulty Level: Easy, great for all skill levels.
- Location: Kesselfallklamm is located near Graz.
- Opening Hours: Open year-round, with the best conditions in spring and summer.
- Entry Fee: €2.
- Family-Friendly: Yes, with supervision.
- Pets: Allowed, but must be on a leash.
- Parking: Available, free of charge.
- Hiking Duration: The Kesselfallklamm trail is short, about 2 km, and takes roughly 1 hour for the round trip.
- Start and Finish Points: The adventure starts and ends at the Gasthaus Sandwirt parking lot, which is very convenient.
What to Do Near Kesselfallklamm?
- Graz: Visit Hauptplatz and City Hall, explore the UNESCO-listed Altstadt, and hike up Schlossberg for panoramic views.
- Leibnitz: Explore the gardens at Schloss Seggau and take a walk through Denkmalpark.
- Weiz: Discover the town center, the Weizberg Church, and local parks.
- Gleisdorf: Enjoy outdoor art at Kunstmeile and stroll through Solarpark.
Where to Stay Near Kesselfallklamm?
- PM-PremiumAPART Strassgang (Graz): €90 per night.
- a&o Graz Hauptbahnhof (Graz): From €23 per night.
- VULKAN Residenz Hotel - Self-Check-in (Leibnitz): From €89 per night.
- JUFA Hotel Weiz (Weiz): From €125 per night.
- Business Hotel Ambio Gleisdorf (Gleisdorf): From €139 per night.
Where to Eat Near Kesselfallklamm?
- Best Food Grill (Graz): Try a kebab from €4 to €7 or a burger starting at €7.
- Restaurante Amo (Graz): Enjoy Arabic dishes ranging from €10 to €14.
- Gasthaus Sandwirt (Kesselfallklamm): Located 350 meters from the entrance, serving Austrian dishes between €8 and €15.
Getting to Kesselfallklamm by Train
- From Graz: Take a train from Graz Hauptbahnhof to Peggau-Deutschfeistritz, then transfer to a bus or taxi to Kesselfallklamm. Bus schedules are limited, so check ahead. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
For schedules and tickets, visit the Verbund Linie Steiermark website for local bus services, including connections from stations like Peggau-Deutschfeistritz to Kesselfallklamm.
Hiking Trail Map of Austria
Here's a summary of the places mentioned in this guide. Click on the markers for more details, including easy driving directions to get there.
How to Buy Train Tickets in Austria
There are several ways to purchase train tickets in Austria:
- At Train Stations: Ticket counters and self-service machines at train stations allow you to buy tickets for both domestic and international destinations.
- ÖBB Website: You can buy tickets online at the official ÖBB website (Austrian Federal Railways), which also has a convenient mobile app.
- Travel Agencies: Some travel agencies sell train tickets, particularly for international routes.
- Tourist Offices: In some cities, tourist offices also offer train ticket sales.
Start Your Adventure in Austria!
Enjoy this guide to the best hiking trails in Austria. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll through lush valleys or an exciting challenge in a narrow canyon, these trails will offer you an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature. Put on your hiking boots and get ready to explore these amazing destinations!
Photo credits: Weißsee Gletscherwelt - Roberto GR, Tscheppaschlucht - Juan Jaritz, Raggaschlucht - Ruben Holthuijsen, Wolfsklam - Ștefan Jurcă, Cataratas de Krimml - Nathan Wong
FAQs
What are the Best Hikes near Vienna accessible by Public Transport?
Vienna offers some great hiking options, even if you don't have a car. Here are two trails I highly recommend:
- Golden Leaf Circular Trail (Goldenes Blatt): This moderate-difficulty trail is perfect for a peaceful walk with stunning panoramic views. From Wien Mitte-Landstraße station, take the train to Klosterneuburg-Kierling. Once there, it's about a 15-minute walk to the starting point of the trail.
- Vienna Panorama Trail (Wiener Höhenweg): Easily accessible by bus, this hike is ideal for enjoying spectacular views of the city and its surroundings. Take bus 38A from Heiligenstadt station to Cobenzl, where you'll find signs marking the start of the trail. This trail is suitable for both beginners and intermediate hikers.
Both of these hikes are free and provide a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in nature just outside the capital.
For more ideas on family-friendly and accessible hikes, check out our Top 5 Easy Hiking Trails in Austria for Families and Beginners. Enjoy these great escapes around Vienna!
Can you visit Raggaschlucht Gorge with Young Children?
Raggaschlucht Gorge is a spectacular destination, perfect for exploring nature with the family. The well-maintained walkways provide relatively easy access, even for young children. However, it's important that your kids are used to walking, as some parts of the trail can be steep and require a bit more effort, especially for toddlers.
The walkways are safe, but be cautious, especially in narrower sections. The stunning natural environment, with its waterfalls and impressive rock formations, will surely captivate children and offer a wonderful learning opportunity about nature. To ensure a smooth hike, make sure to wear sturdy walking shoes, as some areas may be slippery due to the waterfall splashes.
Also, bring water and light snacks, as facilities along the trail are limited. To avoid the crowds, try to visit during off-peak hours for a more peaceful experience, allowing your children to fully enjoy the adventure.
For more accessible family-friendly hikes, check out our guide on Top 5 Easy Hiking Trails in Austria for Families and Beginners. With a little preparation, Raggaschlucht can provide an unforgettable experience for both the little ones and adults!
How to go Hiking in Austria on a Budget?
Hiking in Austria can be surprisingly affordable, especially with some smart planning. Here are a few tips to enjoy the stunning trails without stretching your budget:
Free Hiking Trails
Austria is home to many breathtaking national and nature parks that don't charge entry fees:
- Hohe Tauern National Park: Discover majestic mountains and glacier valleys in Carinthia, Salzburg, or Tyrol.
- Gesäuse National Park (Styria): A picturesque setting with trails winding through forests and along rivers.
- Kalkalpen National Park (Upper Austria): Hike through ancient forests teeming with biodiversity.
- Almenland Nature Park (Styria): Perfect for relaxed walks in a serene alpine landscape.
Trails with Entry Fees
Some well-maintained trails, often featuring bridges or other special infrastructure, require a small entry fee. These fees support excellent trail maintenance and are usually worth it. For example, Raggaschlucht Gorge and Tscheppaschlucht Gorge are fantastic options for hikers of all skill levels.
Other Costs to Consider
- Transportation: Public transport is a budget-friendly way to reach most hiking destinations and is often well-connected.
- Accommodation: Mountain huts are convenient but can be pricey. Look for affordable options in towns near the parks (18–50 EUR per night) or try Couchsurfing for a free stay with locals and an authentic cultural experience.
- Gear: Invest in quality hiking boots and appropriate clothing. Second-hand options can help save money.
- Food: Bring your own snacks and drinks, this is much cheaper than dining in mountain huts or restaurants.
In summary, Austria offers hiking opportunities for every budget. Choose free trails, pack your meals, and explore affordable accommodations to keep costs low. For more inspiration and family-friendly options, check out our guide to the Top 5 Easy Hiking Trails in Austria for Families and Beginners. Happy hiking!
