The best walks and hikes around Hallstätter Lake
4.6
(5344)
32,697
hikers
20
hikes
Hiking around Hallstätter Lake offers diverse terrain where the majestic peaks of the Dachstein Alps meet the clear waters of Hallstätter See. The region features steep alpine ascents, picturesque valleys like Echerntal and Koppental, and extensive forests. Hikers can explore trails leading to summits, past waterfalls such as Waldbachstrub, and through unique karst landscapes. This UNESCO World Heritage site provides a varied environment for outdoor activities.
Best hiking trails around Hallstätter Lake
- The most popular hiking route is Hallstatt – Waldbachfall loop from Hallstatt, a 5.75 miles (9.25 km) trail that takes 3 hours 7 minutes to complete. This difficult route includes significant elevation gain and leads to the Waldbachstrub waterfalls.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Traun River in Obertraun – Koppenwinkellacke loop from Freizeitzentrum Hallstatt, a moderate 9.08 miles (14.6 km) path. This trail follows the Traun River and passes the scenic Koppenwinkellacke.
- Local hikers also love the View of Hallstatt – Hallstatt loop from Hallstätter See, a 5.23 miles (8.4 km) trail leading through lakeside paths and offering views of Hallstatt, often completed in about 2 hours 23 minutes.
- Hiking around Hallstätter Lake is defined by alpine peaks, clear lake shores, and lush forests, with a network of routes offering options for various ability levels.
- The routes in Hallstätter Lake are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 600 reviews. More than 5000 hikers have used komoot to explore Hallstätter Lake's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 28, 2026
4.8
(120)
451
hikers
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.6
(36)
775
hikers
3.92km
01:02
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(34)
127
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(20)
137
hikers
10.8km
02:54
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
89
hikers
8.67km
02:26
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Hallstatt Stairway is an exceptionally well-preserved wooden staircase from the Bronze Age, discovered in the prehistoric salt mine of Hallstatt in Austria. It is considered one of the oldest completely preserved wooden staircases in Europe and was dated using dendrochronology to the years 1344/1343 BC. It was built for salt mining and enabled miners to safely transport heavy loads of salt. The staircase is over 1 meter wide, allowing several people to walk on it simultaneously. Its construction with side stringers and inserted treads shows an astonishingly high technical level of the Bronze Age. Today, the restored Hallstatt Stairway can be seen in the visitor mine of Salzwelten Hallstatt and is one of the most significant archaeological finds from the salt mine.
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The colorful streets of Hallstatt are among the most charming sights in the historic town center. Especially the Seestraße and the small alleys around the market square show the typical architecture of the place: narrow houses, colorful facades, wooden balconies, and flowers in front of the windows. Colorful burgher houses directly on the slope and on the lake shore. Traditional facades with wooden details and floral decorations. Narrow alleys that preserve the medieval character of the town. Small shops, cafes, and craft stores along the paths. Seestraße: Hallstatt's most famous street with a direct view of the Hallstätter See. Market square and surroundings: Historic houses around the fountain and the Holy Trinity column. Lakeside alleys: Beautiful perspectives with the lake, boat houses, and the church tower in the background. The colorful alleys are an important part of Hallstatt's charm and make the town one of the most famous photo opportunities in the Salzkammergut.
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The Trinity Column on the market square in Hallstatt is one of the striking monuments in the historic town center. It stands in the middle of the picturesque market square and, together with the fountain and the colorful burgher houses, shapes the image of old Hallstatt. The baroque column dates from the 18th century. It was erected as a religious monument in honor of the Holy Trinity. Such columns were widespread in the Catholic regions during the Baroque period and often served as a sign of faith and protection for the town. Artistically designed stone and sculptural work. Central location on the historic market square. Surrounded by traditional Hallstatt houses, small shops, and restaurants. A popular photo motif during tours of the UNESCO World Heritage site. The market square with the Trinity Column is one of Hallstatt's most beautiful squares and forms an ideal starting point for visiting further attractions such as the Market Square Fountain, the Parish Church of the Assumption of Mary, the Bone House, and the Lakeside Promenade.
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The promenade on Lake Hallstatt is one of the most beautiful walking paths in Hallstatt. It runs directly along the shore and offers an unobstructed view of the lake, the surrounding mountains, and the historic house backdrop of the town. The promenade is largely flat and therefore well suited for a leisurely stroll. Especially in the early morning hours or outside the main season, the unique atmosphere of Lake Hallstatt can best be experienced.
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The Hallstätter Stiege is a historic, very steep staircase in the village of Hallstatt in Upper Austria. It connects the town center with the higher-lying areas and offers one of the most beautiful views of Lake Hallstatt and the famous house facades of the village along the way.
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The Hallstätter See is a picturesque alpine lake in the Salzkammergut region of Upper Austria, Austria. It is located at about 508 m above sea level, is around 7.5 km long, up to 1.4 km wide, and reaches a maximum depth of about 125 m. The lake is flowed through by the Traun river and is surrounded by the mountains of the Dachstein massif. Particularly famous is the lake due to the historic town of Hallstatt, which with its spectacular location directly on the shore counts among the most photographed places in Austria. The region is part of the UNESCO World Heritage and is famous for its millennia-old salt mining history.
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beautiful view of the lake from the bike path
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magnificent MTB trail from Gosau over the Durchgangalm to Hallstatt
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Hallstätter Lake?
The Hallstätter Lake region offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 20 trails available. These range from easy lakeside strolls to more demanding alpine ascents, ensuring there's something for every skill level.
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking around Hallstätter Lake?
You'll encounter diverse terrain, from the majestic peaks of the Dachstein Alps to the clear waters of Hallstätter See. Expect steep alpine sections, picturesque valleys like Echerntal and Koppental, extensive forests, and paths along the pristine lake shores. The region is also known for its unique karst landscapes.
When is the best time of year to go hiking in the Hallstätter Lake region?
The best time for hiking around Hallstätter Lake is generally from spring through autumn, when trails are clear of snow and the weather is pleasant. Summer offers lush greenery and opportunities for swimming, while spring and autumn provide vibrant colors and fewer crowds. Some higher alpine routes may only be accessible in summer.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families around Hallstätter Lake?
Yes, there are many easy trails perfect for beginners and families. Over 14 easy routes are available, including gentle lakeside paths. A great option is the Hiking loop from Hallstatt, which is just over 6 km and offers a pleasant experience.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Hallstätter Lake?
Yes, circular routes are very popular here. For a scenic moderate option, consider the View of Hallstatt – Hallstatt loop from Hallstätter See, which is about 8.4 km and offers beautiful lakeside views. The full loop around Lake Hallstatt is approximately 23 kilometers, mostly flat and scenic.
Can I find hikes that feature waterfalls in the Hallstätter Lake area?
Absolutely! The region is home to beautiful waterfalls. The Echerntal valley is particularly known for its romantic trails leading to the Waldbachstrub waterfalls. A challenging but rewarding option is the Hallstatt – Waldbachfall loop from Hallstatt, which leads directly to these impressive cascades.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints to see while hiking?
The Hallstätter Lake area is rich in natural and cultural landmarks. Don't miss the View of Hallstatt itself, or the stunning Hallstatt village. For panoramic views, the Hallstatt Skywalk (World Heritage Skywalk) is a must-see. You can also explore the ancient Hallstatt Salt Mine or the unique Koppenwinkellacke lake, which you can visit on the Traun River in Obertraun – Koppenwinkellacke loop from Freizeitzentrum Hallstatt.
Are dogs allowed on hiking trails around Hallstätter Lake?
Many trails around Hallstätter Lake are dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep your dog on a leash, especially in populated areas, nature reserves, or near livestock. Always carry water for your pet and clean up after them. Specific restrictions might apply in certain protected areas or on cable cars, so check local signage.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Hallstätter Lake?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 4,700 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the breathtaking views of the lake and mountains, the diverse trail options, and the charm of the historic villages. The combination of alpine scenery and serene lakeside paths is a particular highlight.
Is there public transport available to reach hiking trailheads?
Yes, public transport options like buses and ferries connect the main towns and villages around Hallstätter Lake, such as Hallstatt, Obertraun, and Bad Goisern. This makes it convenient to access various trailheads without a car, and also allows for point-to-point hikes.
Are there any moderate hikes that offer great views without being too strenuous?
Certainly! The region has 5 moderate trails that provide excellent views. The View of Hallstatt – Entrance to Obertraun loop from Obersee is a fantastic moderate option, spanning about 10.7 km with manageable elevation changes, offering picturesque vistas of the lake and surrounding landscape.
Most popular routes around Hallstätter Lake
Most popular attractions around Hallstätter Lake
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