BergeSeen Trail Stage 27
This trail is a long descent along the easy-to-walk former Franz-Josef-Riding Trail, which was constructed in the 19th century and made access to the Dachstein Plateau a possibility.
From the hut, the trail makes its first steep descent down into the Wildkar landscape which is almost devoid of vegetation. The route continues to the valley station of the cable lift (goods only). The trail then traverses hilly terrain heading north. At the trail marker to the Gjaidalm, the route continues straight on, passes the Lower Ochsenkogel to the east and then lightly descends to the Wiesberghaus Hut (belonging to the Naturfreunde Association) which sits at 1872 metres (approximately 1 hour from Simony Hut).
The route continues to descend through sparse pine forest landscape to the beautiful alpine meadows of the Wiesalm (1689 m).
The trail leads through the so-called ‘Herrengasse’ to a corrie, where the Tiergarten Hut is located (not open to the public). The route then descends alongside steep cliffs until reaching a forest road at the ‘Alten Herd’. The trail continues along a broad path, which crosses the forest road twice. Afterwards the route descends to the thunderous Waldbach Stream. A visit the nearby source spring of the Waldbach (Waldbachursprung) is recommended.
The trail heads right to a bridge over the Waldbach. From this point, hikers will enjoy a phenomenal view of the Waldbachstrub Waterfalls. The route then begins a steep descent along the forest road, leading through a tunnel and by the valley station of the Weisberghaus cable lift. Hikers can continue down into the valley via the road or turn left to access the trail through the gorgeous Glacier Garden, which is well-worth seeing. Both routes eventually arrive at the carpark at the Simony Monument.
The route then heads along the Echerntal Road which leads out of the valley to Lake Hallstatt. The trail follows the lakeshore to the left into the village of Hallstatt—our final destination.
Many prominent figures have explored this region: nobles like Archduke Johann and Empress Elisabeth, scientists such as Friedrich Simony, poets and authors like Nikolaus Lenau, painters like Ferdinand Georg Waldmüller, musicians and composers such as Johannes Brahms. Did they ever think that hiking in the Salzkammergut might have no end? That they could tramp from one lake to the next and then onward to yet another? Day by day along the shores of crystal-clear waters? Week-long excursions through quiet valley forests, over sunny alpine meadows and up mountains fuelled by the anticipation of the next destination? Further information…
Tips: Hiking in spring
The days in the Salzkammergut are getting longer. The temperatures are finally getting warmer, more and more hikers are heading to the mountains. But be careful: Especially in spring, there are a few things to consider: There is often still a lot of snow on the mountains, so be careful when crossing snowfields. After winter, you are usually still a bit "rusty", so warm up accordingly in advance and plan your tour carefully. Let your host know the planned route. This can lead to quick help in an emergency. But there's more to consider:
Tips: Hiking in spring
The days in the Salzkammergut are getting longer. The temperatures are finally getting warmer, more and more hikers are heading to the mountains. But be careful: Especially in spring, there are a few things to consider: There is often still a lot of snow on the mountains, so be careful when crossing snowfields. After winter, you are usually still a bit "rusty", so warm up accordingly in advance and plan your tour carefully. Let your host know the planned route. This can lead to quick help in an emergency. But there's more to consider:
Safety Tips for Hikers
Admittedly, the landscape of the UNESCO World Heritage region of Hallstatt Dachstein Salzkammergut is the absolute pinnacle for hiking fans, mountain enthusiasts and nature lovers—unforgettable tours to incredibly beautiful mountain lodges and meadows, panorama views as far as the eye can see and cherished moments that will last a lifetime! However, you should remember that while hiking you might find yourself in high-alpine terrain. We’ve put together some resources to assist you: how to best prepare for your tour, recommended items for your backpack and steps to take in an emergency situation. Remember to always play it safe and enjoy your hiking adventure in the Salzkammergut!
Warning: Closed trails
Better to know before you go
Hiking trails in the Salzkammergut can be closed for various reasons. To help you prepare for your hike, we have set up a page with current road closures in the region. This will help you get to your destination without any detours or stress. Click here to visit the page...
Simony hut (Simonyhütte) Hallstatt
Hallstatt / Obertraun | Simonyhütte: Nestled picturesquely at the foot of the Dachstein, with a beautiful view, the refuge is located 2,203m above sea level, amidst the impressive mountains of the Dachstein plateau.
Themed trail Hallstatt Echerntal
Past beautifully designed information boards. On the trail of naturalists and landscape painters. Short and easy, but hugely rewarding and interesting themed hike. Walking time for the circular hiking trail: 3 - 4 hours. Enjoy the "Themed trail Hallstatt Echerntal" in Hallstatt.
Hiking to the "Waldbachstrub" Waterfall in Hallstatt
Family-friendly hike of about 2.5 hours to the most beautiful waterfalls of the Salzkammergut. With numerous information boards and unforgettable photo motifs. An enjoyable tour!
"Jewellery" of the Echern Valley
Geschichten rund um kuriose Kleinigkeiten am Wegesrand. Erfahren Sie mehr über Land & Leute und die kleinen Geschichten rechts und links vom Wegesrand.
Hiking to the Glacier Garden in Hallstatt
Hallstatt | This romantic hike through the picturesque Echern valley to the Glacier garden is a relic of the last ice age. A wonderful hiking route for the whole family.
Waldbachstrub Waterfall
Hallstatt | Waldbachstrub: Impressive waterfall in the romantic Hallstatt Echerntal. ‘Glücksplatz’ with cult status!
Hiking through the Echern Valley
Hallstatt | A hike possible for all and in all seasons. The spectacular view puts a spell on all hikers. The Goal: The breathtaking Waldbackstrub Waterfall.
Hike to the Wiesberghaus
Day hike on the high plateau with numerous further hiking options.
From Hallstatt through the Echerntal valley, or by cable car to 1884 m above sea level and through the karst landscape. Really fantastic! Surefootedness and mountain experience required.
Hiking to the "Waldbach" origin in Hallstatt
A hike for nature lovers. 5 to 6 hours walking time. Lots of silence and great views. Hikers with mountain experience. Don't forget hiking shoes! Endurance and sure-footedness are prerequisites.
Walk through the Echern Valley in Hallstatt
Leisurely tour through the front part of the Echerntal. About 1 1/2 hours. Promenade with numerous information boards. There is a lot to see. Especially popular with families. Suitable for strollers.
Across the karst plateau
The recently established Nature trail on the Dachstein plateau is an important component of the World Heritage Hiking world. This trail travels across the karst plateau and "lures" with pristine high alpine scenery.