Hike to the "Steingrabenschneid" in Hallstatt
Steingrabenschneid and Schneidkogel
The view from the Steingrabenschneid, some also say Schneidkogel, is simply overwhelming. The ascent over the Salzberg offers the hiker a magnificent view over the fjord-like valley. The first part of the route can also be overcome by funicular. Details and information on this can be found below under "Information at a Glance".
The mountain is calling!
The starting point for our first major mountain hike in Hallstatt is the Salzberg. The ascent is either on foot (about 1 hour) from the valley station of the Salzberg cable car or directly by cable car.
As is well known, the journey is the reward
A very steep but well prepared path leads us past the houses of the Salzberg settlement; after 30 minutes we reach the Salzberg-Alm (1000 m) to the ruins of an old pasture, the "Gemauerte Stube". Here we have to follow the markers with the No. 642, and very soon we see the signpost to Steingrabenschneid on a tree on the right. Now a, completely safe, narrow path leads through a wonderful shady forest in 1½ hours to the summit of the Steingrabenschneid or Schneidkogel (1551 m).
Almost at eye level with the Dachstein
In rare silence and tranquillity, hearing only the sounds of the birdlife, we enjoy the first summit ascent. The panoramic view is overwhelming. For the first time we see the Dachstein mountain range in its full breadth and with its glacier region. We can see the Salzberg-Hochtal valley from above and, of course, the whole Lake Hallstatt area. An extremely interesting flora offers us gentian and, for the first time, alpine roses, and mighty weather spruces bear witness to the rigours of nature.
A view onto a miniature wonderland
Below the steep rocky drop, deep at the feet of the mountain hiker, the stream of traffic on the Lake Hallstatt main road winds its way; on the eastern shore of the lake, the railway and the “Ostufer Wanderweg” (East Shore Hiking Trail) meander along. At our backs we have the summit of the Plassen, which anyone who has made it up the Steingrabenschneid can also climb.
Still time for a trip to the salt mine?
Our hiking tip: Why not combine the hike to Steingrabenschneid with a trip to the oldest salt mine in the world, a detour to the "Skywalk" on the Salzberg or a hearty snack in the restaurant in the Rudolfsturm. All these attractions are on your way when hiking in Hallstatt.
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...
More time to enjoy!
To save you unnecessary searching on various websites, we have summarised all relevant information about this tour for you below: contact details, opening times, travel times of cable cars, links to public transport and much more. In this way, you get all the information at a glance and have more time to enjoy the breathtaking mountains of the Salzkammergut.
Available accommodation for your hiking holiday in the Salzkammergut
Hotels and accommodation providers in Hallstatt, Bad Goisern, Gosau and Obertraun offer the ideal room or apartment for your holidays, no matter what your tastes. Aside from establishments rated according to the international "star" scale, you will also find around Lake Hallstatt in Austria businesses that have been awarded two to four "edelweiss". The more flowers, the greater comforts you can expect. Whether you eventually find your cozy nest in an elegant 5-star luxury hotel, at comfortable guesthouse, a family-friendly apartment, or on a traditional farm, the choice is always entirely up to you.