Lake Hike: From Reiteralm to Spiegelsee and Untersee

On this hike to Spiegelsee, you can discover several lakes. There was even a big surprise for us, but more on that later.

Tour information

Distance: 5.1 km Duration: Approximately 3 hours with short breaks Ascent & Descent: 284 m Start and Finish: Reiteralm Hiking Portal, Preunegg-Jet Mountain Station Difficulty: Easy Recommended Season: May to October

Using the cable car to go up.

From Schladming, it takes about 15 minutes by car to reach the valley station of the cable car, located at Preunegg 70, 8973 Schladming.

As one of the first visitors in the morning, we reach the valley station of the “Preunegg Jet” cable car shortly before 9 o’clock. You don’t need to arrive much earlier, as it typically starts operating around 8:45. You can find the exact times and days here. By the way, with the Schladming Summercard, you get one cable car ride per day for free, which we’re happy to redeem here. You can find the prices here.

In just a few minutes, we’re at the top. The panorama is stunning even during the ride, even if the weather isn’t perfect. The journey begins right at the mountain station, where the glistening Reiteralm Lake welcomes you.

The hike to Spiegelsee.

Your first destination is Spiegelsee, which can be reached in about 45 minutes. Simply follow the well-marked trail that initially takes you through an enchanting forest, with occasional uphill and downhill sections. This route is also ideal for families with children, as it is easy to manage. Our 4-year-old joined in without any problems. Along the way, you can already catch a glimpse of the fascinating Untersee, which stretches majestically beneath you.

Upon reaching Spiegelsee, we encounter a huge surprise: The lake is completely dried up. Unfortunately, this information was not available online, and no one had informed us in advance. So, if you are hiking in the autumn, it’s advisable to do some research beforehand, as this seems to be an annual phenomenon. However, most of the time, there is at least some water left.

We overcome our shock and decide to walk through the lake instead of around it. We can’t help but find the “No Swimming” signs quite amusing.

At this point, we would like to express our gratitude to the Schladming Dachstein region for providing us with a photo. After all, you should see how the lake actually looks.

Continuing on to Untersee.

Since we really want to get a closer look at another lake, we decide to return via Untersee. To do this, we initially retrace our steps on the same path but then turn right once we spot Untersee.

The descent is a bit more challenging as it involves navigating over rocks and scree, but with sure footing, you’ll tackle it without any difficulties. Our 4-year-old managed it with a little assistance as well.

The view of Untersee is breathtakingly beautiful, and you can walk along the shore to the viewing platform to admire the idyllic scenery. The lake is undoubtedly the highlight of this hike, a tranquil body of water that captivates everyone. In the background, you can also see the vibrant colors of autumn.

By the way, this trail, known as “Stille Wasser” (Quiet Waters), can be easily navigated with a slightly more athletic baby stroller from the mountain station to Untersee. We’re taking it from the opposite direction.

“Stille Wasser Wanderung” (Quiet Waters Hike).

From Untersee, the trail continues to Waldsee, which is just 3 minutes away from Untersee. Here, we find some more time to relax and enjoy the swings.

You pass it to reach the picturesque Moorsee after a few minutes, which also has its own charm. The path eventually leads to the mountain station, and here, there is a crucial fork in the road. We decide to go straight, which later turns out to be a small mistake. It would probably have been wiser to choose the left and more direct path.

Finally, we reach the mountain station of Reiteralm, and we settle down in a cozy Gasselhöh Hütte to enjoy a hearty and delicious lunch. Right in front of the hut, there is a charming children’s playground, and near the mountain station, there are great opportunities for kids to play around.