It’s the size of Pennsylvania, and its population is barely half of London’s. Yet Austria provides trekkers with a larger-than-life experience. The country specializes in day hikes that feature uniquely Central European attractions; think castles, inns, and the continent’s largest waterfall.
And with hundreds of worthy nominees, choosing the country’s best trail is like choosing the world’s most talented athlete. There are many opinions, and none is wrong. Fortunately, we don’t have to make that tough choice. Instead, we created a list of the best 8 hikes in the Austrian Alps :)
Basic Need-to-Know
What to Pack
Obviously how much you pack and the backpack you use will depend on the length of the hike. Use this list as a guideline, and adapt as needed:
- Basic first aid kit
- Cash (Euros). It’s the preferred manner of payment for smaller purchases, including at beer gardens & wineries :)
- Clothes: Layers are best because the weather varies throughout the day and with changes in elevation. A waterproof windbreaker does wonders here. The strong winds treat umbrellas the way hurricanes treat small watercraft; by mangling them.
- Detailed map or GPS if going far outside the city. Otherwise, Apple and Google Maps work fine.
- Mid-day meals and snacks. Lunchtime is slow, and many restaurants are closed.
- Water! Water is clean to drink in Austria, and that includes fresh mountain springs; however we noticed that fountains are not easy to find.
When to Go
Late spring through early fall is when to go hiking in Austria. In fact, summer is the most popular time for hiking due to the moderate temperatures (average August highs in Vienna hover around 78F/25.C).
Make sure to check the weather no matter when you visit. Then you won’t be shocked when a pleasant, sunny morning transforms into a stormy afternoon. And you can always expect wind in the Alps :)
The Best 8 Hikes in the Austrian Alps
We made this list based on word of mouth, research, and personal experience. They are listed by length, starting with the shortest.
Lake Hallstatt to Rudolf’s Tower
Distance: 2.3 miles/3.7km
Total Elevation Change: 1,079 feet/329 meters
Difficulty: Medium
Highlights: This steep, out-and-back trail stands out for its water features (we’re suckers for water features). It starts at the lake and leads you to Rudolf’s Tower (Rudolfsturm).
Tips: The actual tower was built in the 1200’s. And if its history ain’t enough, it is where you can buy drinks and snackies. Make sure the trail is open before going.
Closest Major City: Salzberg
Castle of Hardegg Trail
One of several outstanding options in Thayatal National Park, which borders Podyji National Park in the Czech Republic. Go on this hike for the fortress, oak forest, and stunning views from the plateau!
Distance: 3.8 miles/6.1 km
Total Elevation Change: 826 feet/252 m
Difficulty: Easy-medium
Tip: This is a great option if you’re bringing kids. You can buy snacks and drinks in the park, and there are picnic tables and a playground. Entrance fee is EUR 5.50.
Closest Cities: Vienna or Brno in the Czech Republic
Höttinger Bild – Rauschbrunnen
Located near Innsbruck, this loop is the Karwendel Nature Reserve’s most popular hike. Standout features include views of the city and mountains in addition to the traditional Tyrolean foods at the Rauschbrunnen inn.
Distance: 4.8 miles/7.7km
Total Elevation Change: 1,240
Difficulty: Medium
Tip: If you have time, consider the even more panoramic Hungerburg to Hafelekarpitze hike. This 8 mile/12.9km-long hike is also more challenging.
Closest City: Innsbruck
Krimml Waterfall Trail
Again, we’re suckers for water. And with Krimml, Austria is home to Europe’s largest waterfall (380 meters/1,247 feet). Paths take you to the lower, middle and upper falls. Top-notch Alpine views are another of this trail’s draws.
Distance: 5.1 miles/8.2km
Difficulty: Medium
Tips: This trail is closed when conditions are bad. So check its status here before going. You have to pay a fee to enter Hohe Tauern National Park for this hike.
Closest City: Salzberg
Eisenstadt Loop
This hike is a classic loop through vineyards near Vienna. It’s part of Austria’s oldest national park, Neusiedler See-Seewinkel.
Distance: 5.8 miles/9.3km
Difficulty: Medium
Tip: Try to make time for other areas in Neusiedler See-Seewinkel, too! The park is home to saltpans, meadows, and the famous lake from which it gets its name.
Closest City: Vienna
Vienna City Hiking Trail 1
Distance: 6.8 miles/10.9km
Total Elevation Change: 1,164 ft/355 meters
Difficulty: Medium
Highlights: You won’t believe you’re still in the city! Through verdant, wooded sections adjacent to sweet-smelling fields and a burbling brook, this loop goes uphill before leveling out and eventually descending. Vineyards are open in warmer months.
Tips: Take the tram to the Nussdorf Beethovengang stop. This neighborhood is walkable and beautiful; check out Beethoven’s house if you have time! The German name of this hike is Stadtwanderweg 1.
Closest City: Vienna
Neusiedler See Panoramic Hike
Neusiedler See (Lake Neusiedl) is a World Heritage site and offers hiking, biking, watersports and, being in Central Europe, a nearby castle or two.
Distance: 20.8 miles/33.4km
Change in Elevation: 1,164 ft/355 meters
Difficulty: Medium-hard
Tip: Interested in an even longer hike? Neusiedler See – Seewinkel National Park has several fantastic options up to 75 miles long!
Closest Cities: Vienna and Bratislava
Lynx Trail (Luchs Trail)
This 11-day experience wanders through three conservation areas and finishes with an appropriate Alpine lake plunge. Plus you’ll spot one of the secretive mammals for which the trail was named… if you’re lucky.
Distance: 130 miles/210 km
Change in Elevation: 4,922 ft/1,500 meters
Difficulty: Hard (badass)
Tips: For up-to-date information follow the trail’s official website. The site also has information on accommodation and refreshments for your journey.
Closest Cities: Graz, Vienna, Innsbruck
Conclusion
No two “Best 8 Hikes in the Austrian Alps” lists are the same. That’s because Austria offers so many beautiful, fun hikes that are worthy of making someone’s list. But each of these eight is guaranteed to be a trip highlight. You’ll quickly understand why hikers leave the country searching for the right superlatives to best describe their experience.
And the most important thing to remember is this: In Austria you’re never far from an awesome trail!