Hiking trails
in the south of Upper Austria
Where to hike?
Hundreds of kilometres of marked hiking trails, striking two-thousand metre peaks and an extraordinary density of managed alpine pastures and huts stretch from the mountain world between Pyhrn and Priel to the unique valleys and forests of the Kalkalpen National Park.
Gentle enjoyment of nature and varied adventure tours characterise the pre-Alpine landscape between the charming towns of Kirchdorf, Bad Hall and Steyr. From leisurely walks to alpine summit tours, you will find trails for every level here.
Here is an overview of the most important ones:
- Hundreds of kilometres of marked hiking trails
- Over 60 managed alpine pastures & huts
- Wine taverns, snack stations, inns & restaurants
- Summit tours - family-friendly destinations & over 20 two-thousand metre peaks
- Two cable cars up to around 1,900 metres
- Hiking trails for children and families
- Ranger tours & UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Kalkalpen National Park
- Dr Vogelgesang Gorge - Upper Austria's longest gorge
- Pießling spring - the largest karst spring in the Eastern Alps
- Mindful pilgrimage trails and long-distance hiking trails lasting several days
- Mountain world, health resort and historic towns in the immediate vicinity
Practical tips for hikers
Start early for alpine tours and plan realistically - with an eye on the weather, altitude metres and your fitness level. Find out in advance about the opening times of mountain huts and possible road closures. Sturdy shoes, suitable clothing, sufficient provisions and a map or hiking map saved offline will give you peace of mind for your day in the great outdoors.
Family and themed trails
The 360° Alpenland offers everything for a varied hiking holiday. Whether child-friendly hiking trails, exciting themed trails or pure nature - everyone will find their own personal adventure here.
Pilgrim and long-distance hiking trails
Step by step to yourself.
Whether on pilgrimages in the footsteps of St Sebald, on the path of mindfulness or on multi-day routes such as the Kalkalpenweg and the Luchstrail - in 360° Alpenland, pilgrimage and long-distance hiking trails lead through different landscapes and to quiet moments. From gentle introductory routes to multi-day stages, you will find paths here that give you space: for thoughts, for encounters, for yourself.
Things to know about a hiking holiday in 360° Alpenland
The 360° Alpenland offers a variety of hiking trails for every fitness level, from leisurely strolls to challenging high mountain tours.
The 360° Alpenland is a rewarding hiking destination at any time of year. In spring, nature blossoms, in summer the alpine pastures invite you to linger, in autumn the colourful foliage is a delight and in winter snowshoe hikes are a temptation.
The equipment you need depends on the tour you choose and the time of year. You should always bring sturdy shoes, weatherproof clothing, sufficient provisions and plenty of fluids.
Tip: Hiking poles are also recommended for more demanding tours. Don't forget sun and rain protection and always check the weather forecast in advance.
The Kalkalpen National Park and local hiking and mountain guides offer guided hikes. These are ideal for getting to know the region better and benefiting from the knowledge of experienced guides.
Guided snowshoe hikes are offered in winter.
Find out more at one of the 360° Alpenland tourist offices.
Yes, there are numerous huts in 360° Alpenland that offer both simple accommodation and culinary delights. Plan your tour carefully and book your sleeping place in the hut in advance.
Yes, most of the hiking trails in 360° Alpenland are very well marked and easy to find. Nevertheless, we recommend using a hiking map or a corresponding app.
You can download the GPS data from our website or pick up a free hiking map from one of the tourist offices.
The 360° Alpenland offers many highlights for hikers, such as the impressive peaks of the Totes Gebirge, the crystal-clear Gleinkersee lake, idyllic alpine pastures, historical sites and diverse flora and fauna. The proximity to the Kalkalpen National Park offers numerous opportunities to get to know unspoilt nature. With the Pyhrn-Priel AktivCard, for example, you can use the region's mountain railways free of charge, and the Dr Vogelgesangklamm gorge in Spital am Pyhrn is a real natural spectacle.
Yes, there are many child-friendly hiking trails that are also suitable for families with small children. These trails are often shorter and less challenging and offer additional attractions such as adventure stations or rest areas.
Dogs are generally allowed, but they should be kept on a lead and not interfere with nature. It is best to check with the respective tourist offices in advance.
Be careful, especially on hiking tours where you encounter grazing livestock:
* Mother cows protect their calves, so try to avoid encounters between grazing livestock and dogs!
* Please keep dogs under control at all times and keep them on a short lead. If an attack by a grazing animal is foreseeable: Unleash immediately!
You can find 10 rules for the correct interaction with grazing livestock in this video.
Respect each other
Whether you are travelling by bike or on foot, we expect people, nature and animals to treat each other with respect in our region. You can also help us to maintain this fragile balance. Please pay attention to the signs.
You can find detailed information on hiking trails, huts and events on our website, as well as in hiking guides and apps.
Hiking overview maps are available free of charge from the local tourist offices.
- Up-to-date: Check the tourism website regularly to see if there have been any changes to the opening times or trail conditions.
- Safety: Plan your hike carefully and find out about the current weather conditions.
- Respect for nature: Leave no traces and take your rubbish back with you.