Traunstein – The Guardian of Lake Traunsee

The Traunstein rises with his 1,691 meters imposing on the east bank of the Traunsee and is one of the most impressive mountains in the Salzkammergut. Due to its steep rock faces, it appears almost insurmountable from below, but there are several challenging routes for experienced hikers and mountaineers. However, the mountain is not without its dangers – serious accidents occur frequently, as some of the climbs are very exposed and require alpine experience.

Short info:

Where is the Traunstein? On the east bank of the Traunsee, Upper Austria
How high is the mountain? 1,691 m
Can you walk around the Traunstein? Yes, one circular hike is possible and technically moderately difficult.
Is the Traunstein suitable for beginners? No, all climbs are steep and require surefootedness and a head for heights.
How dangerous is a climb? There are fatal accidents every year, mostly due to falls or misjudgments of one's own abilities.
What ascents are there? Hernlersteig, Naturfreundesteig, Mairalmsteig (see below)
How long does a climb take? Depending on the route, the ascent takes 3 to 5 hours
Are there huts on the mountain? Gmundner Hütte (1,666 m) and Naturfreundehütte (1,580 m)

Can you hike or climb the Traunstein?

Yes but Climbing the Traunstein is only recommended for experienced mountaineersThe mountain has no easy hiking trails, but only steep and challenging climbs with rope-secured passages.

Many hikers underestimate the difficulty, which leads to frequent rescue operations. In wet conditions, snow or sudden fog, the climb becomes extremely dangerous.

The three main ascents to the Traunstein

Hernlersteig – The “easiest” climb (but very strenuous)
- Difficulty: Difficult (surefootedness required, but no climbing)
- Elevation difference: approx. 1,200 meters in altitude
- Duration: 3.5 to 4.5 hours for the ascent
- Description: The Hernlersteig trail begins near Gmunden at the "Lainautal" parking lot and climbs steeply in switchbacks. The final section includes rope-secured sections that require absolute attention.
Naturfreundesteig – The most spectacular and dangerous trail
- Difficulty: Very difficult (many rope-secured passages, very exposed)
- Elevation difference: approx. 1,200 meters in altitude
- Duration: 3 to 4 hours for the ascent
- Description: The Friends of Nature Trail also begins in the Lainau Valley, but is significantly more challenging. The extremely steep climbing sections with little foothold are particularly dangerous. This trail is one of the most dangerous climbs in Austria and frequently results in fatal accidents.
Mairalmsteig – The unknown but dangerous path
- Difficulty: Extremely difficult (no rope safety, partly pathless)
- Elevation difference: approx. 1,200 meters in altitude
- Duration: 4 to 5 hours for the ascent
- Description: This little-used climb is only suitable for very experienced climbers. There are no fixed safety devices, and one false step can be fatal.

Can you walk around the Traunstein?

Yes, there is a beautiful Circular hike around the Traunstein, which is well suited for less experienced hikers. The route leads through the Lainau valley and along the eastern shore path at TraunseeThis circumnavigation is not extremely difficult and offers impressive views of the mountain and the lake. The entire route is about 15km long and lasts around 4.5 hours.

How dangerous is the Traunstein really?

Serious accidents occur every year, often with fatal outcomes.
The greatest danger: Many hikers underestimate the difficulty of the trails.
Changes in the weather: Sudden thunderstorms or fog can make orientation difficult.
Rockfall: Falling rocks can be life-threatening, especially on exposed trails.

Are there huts on the Traunstein?

Yes, there are two staffed huts on the summit:

Gmundner Hut: This hut Located at an altitude of 1,666 meters, it is operated by the Gmunden section of the Austrian Alpine Club. It offers accommodation and catering for mountaineers and hikers.
Nature Friends Hut: Located at 1,580 meters, this hut is run by the Friends of Nature. It serves as a rest and overnight accommodation for visitors to the Traunstein. A cozy place to stop for refreshments with a magnificent view.

What can you do at Traunstein and in the surrounding area?

A boat trip on Traunsee company – The best view of the mountain is from the water.
Take the tram - The Traunsee tram connects Gmunden with Vorchdorf and runs partly directly along the lake.
Enjoy a fish on a stick – The restaurants on the lakeshore serve freshly caught fish.
Stroll along the Esplanade – Gmunden and Altmünster in particular have beautiful lake promenades.
Visit the Grünberg – Take the cable car up to the Grünberg and enjoy the view of the Traunstein from there.
Ride the summer toboggan run – The toboggan run on the Grünberg is a highlight for families.

The Traunstein is therefore not only a spectacular destination for mountaineers, but also for nature lovers who want to explore the surrounding area. Anyone planning a climb should be aware of the challenges involved – but the view from the summit rewards anyone who makes it to the top.

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Traunstein – The Guardian of Lake Traunsee