Circular hike around the Traunstein: A varied tour on Lake Traunsee
Tour overview:
- Duration in motion: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Total duration: 4 hours 15 minutes
- distance: 14.8 km
- Ascent & Descent: 735 m
- Minimum height: 422 m
- Maximum height: 1,092 m
The Traunstein
The Traunstein is a 1,691-meter-high mountain in the Upper Austrian Salzkammergut region, rising prominently on the eastern shore of Lake Traunsee. Due to its steep rock faces and exposed location, it is also known as the "Guardian of the Salzkammergut." The mountain offers impressive views and is a popular destination for hikers and mountaineers. In addition to its challenging climbs, there is also a Circular hike around the mountain, which is ideal for a day hike.
Route description
The hike starts on Turnaround point on TraunsteinstrasseFrom there, a forest road leads clockwise along the Gschliefgraben to Radmoos and further to the picturesque LaudachseeAfter about 1.5 hours walking time you reach the Ramsaualm at Laudachsee, which offers a beautiful view. Here you can take a break and enjoy a Hiking stamp pick up.
The path continues towards Hohe Scharte, a steeper section secured with iron pins and wire ropes. This section is only partially suitable for children and dogs. After the summit, the path descends through the forest to Lainau Valley to Jausenstation Mair Alm (Moaralm), where you can also stop for a refreshment and get a hiking stamp.
From there the path continues to Eastern shore of Lake Traunsee, with a prominent section marked by a short tunnel which is easily accessible for hikers. The circular walk then ends at approx. 90 minutes walking time at the starting point. Alternatively, you can take the 10 minutes for the Hois'n Wirt , a guesthouse right on the lake that also offers overnight accommodation.
Refreshment options along the route
There are only a few places to stop for refreshments along the hike, and they are not open all year round:
- Ramsaualm (after about 1.5 hours of walking): Viewpoint with snacks and drinks. Open from Spring to autumn.
- Mair Alm (Moaralm) (after the Hohe Scharte): Cozy snack bar, also only open seasonally.
- Hois'n Wirt (on Lake Traunsee): Inn open all year round with hot meals and overnight accommodation.
Since not all huts are always open, it is advisable to take enough water and a small snack with you.
Arrival and parking
- By train: Take the ÖBB to Gmunden train station, then take the Traunsee tram to Rathausplatz (boat) or Klosterplatz (Traunsee taxi).
- With the Traunsee Taxi Line 10 or the Traunsee shipping to the Hois'n Wirt.
- By carVia Gmunden Ost (Park & Ride option at the Grünberg cable car parking lot) along Traunsteinstraße to the turnaround area (limited parking, approximately 20 spaces). Please park only in designated parking spaces.
Best time of year
The hike is particularly popular in the months May to October recommended. During these months, the trails are easily accessible, and most alpine pastures and snack bars are open.
Notes
- The hike is suitable for seniors, solo travelers, families, friends and couples.
- Children and dogs should only be handled with appropriate experience and equipment take part in the hike, as the section at the Hohe Scharte has secured climbing passages.
- There are several ways to collect hiking stamps (Ramsaualm, Mair Alm, Hois'n Wirt).
- Since parking is limited, it may be advisable to travel by public transport.
This circular hike around the Traunstein offers a combination of scenic diversity, challenging climbs and cozy rest areas – ideal for an extended day hike.
Here you can find the Route on Bergfex.











