Description
This high-alpine hike begins in Wienerbruck and leads through the Ötschergräben Gorge, continuing along the south face of the Ötscher and the Rauhen Kamm. This section should not be underestimated, as it includes climbing sections and exposed, steep passages. With stunning views and the satisfaction of reaching the summit of the Ötscher, the descent back into the gorge begins. Passing the Ötscherhias, which invites you to stop for a break, the trail continues on to the Erlaufklause. From here, the Mariazellerbahn takes you back to the starting point. Alternatively, the hike can lead all the way back through the Ötschergräben to Wienerbruck.
This challenging hike features significant elevation gain. Suitable only for experienced, sure-footed hikers with a head for heights. Safe and, above all, dry weather conditions are essential here. Take special care when encountering old snow in early summer!
Starting point of the tour
Wienerbruck Nature Park Entrance, Ötscher-Basis Nature Park Center
Destination point of the tour
Erlauf Gorge
Route description Wienerbruck - Ötschergräben - Jägerherz - Rauher Kamm - Ötscher - Riffelsattel - Erlaufklause
Starting in Wienerbruck, the trail leads through the Lassingschlucht Gorge to the Power station Stierwaschboden. From here, you hike through the Ötschergräben, past the Ötscherhias snack bar, and on to the Moisengraben. Turn off here and follow the hiking trail or forest road toward Jägerherz. The trail runs along the south side of the Ötscher, past Geldloch and Taubenloch, up to the northeast ridge. Continue through mountain pine groves to the start of the Rauhen Kamm (1,533 m), then ascend along narrow ledges and rugged rock steps to the secondary summit of the Ötscher. Afterward, enjoy a pleasant hike across the summit plateau to the Ötscher summit. Then descend to the Ötscher mountain hut (approx. 1.5 hours), where you can stop for refreshments. The trail continues to the Riffelsattel and from there back toward the Ötschergräben. The tour passes through a beech forest and rejoins the gorge. Passing the impressive Schleierfall, you hike through the entire Hintere Ötschergräben. Shortly before the Ötscherhias, the Mirafall is located on the left side. At the Ötscherhias, you leave the gorge and head uphill on a short but very steep climb toward the Erlaufklause. From here, the Mariazellerbahn provides a comfortable ride back to Wienerbruck. Alternatively, you can hike the entire length of the Ötschergräben back to the starting point.
Directions
Coming from Linz: A1 highway; take the Ybbs exit; follow signs for Wieselburg and Scheibbs (about 1.5 hours from Linz)
Coming from Vienna: A1 highway; take the St. Pölten exit and drive through the Pielach Valley (about 1.5 hours from Vienna)
From Styria (coming from Graz): Take the S35 toward Leoben to the Bruck/Mur interchange, then take the B116 to Kapfenberg, and follow the B20 toward Mariazell
Parking
Paid parking is available at the Ötscher base—€6 per day. The revenue from parking fees goes toward the maintenance of the nature park.
The Mariazellerbahn from St. Pölten or Mariazell to Wienerbruck-Josefsberg.
