The best walks and hikes around Schwarzau im Gebirge
4.7
(7995)
50,956
hikers
38
hikes
Hiking around Schwarzau im Gebirge offers diverse terrain within Lower Austria, characterized by the Rax-Schneeberg Group. The region features green forests, deep valleys, and alpine meadows, with the Schwarza river meandering through the Höllental valley. It is a karst landscape, including unique elements such as springs and waterfalls. The area provides a range of hiking experiences from gentle paths to challenging alpine routes.
Best hiking trails around Schwarzau im Gebirge
- The most popular hiking route is Franz Jonas Trail –…
Last updated: October 18, 2026
4.7
(35)
226
hikers
10.7km
04:30
870m
870m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.8
(21)
117
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(12)
144
hikers
15.3km
06:18
1,070m
1,070m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
5.0
(6)
45
hikers
21.4km
08:21
1,240m
1,240m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(15)
63
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Schwarzau im Gebirge
Other adventures around Schwarzau im Gebirge
Tips from the Community
The Neue Seehütte is located at 1,643 meters on the Rax plateau and is a popular hut of the Austrian Tourist Club. Surrounded by extensive alpine pastures, it serves as an important base for hikes and via ferratas around Preinerwand and Seehüttenkamm. A cozy stop amidst the open high-country landscape, combining nature experience and alpine tradition.
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The Predigtstuhl (1,902 m) is a distinctive viewpoint on the edge of the Rax plateau with impressive rock faces and a wide panorama. The ascent is via alpine trails and requires sure-footedness and some stamina. At the top, a magnificent view opens up over the Rax high plateaus and the surrounding Vienna Alps – a rewarding destination for experienced mountain hikers.
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The Innthaler memorial stone near the Habsburghaus commemorates the mountain guide Daniel Innthaler (1847–1923) from Naßwald, an important pioneer of the Rax and especially the Kahlmäuer. The monument, shaped like a truncated pyramid, was erected in 1925 and bears the inscription „Dem Erschliesser der Kahlmauern“ (To the pioneer of the Kahlmauern). A historically significant place on the plateau, reminiscent of the beginnings of alpinism in the Vienna Alps.
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The Karl-Ludwig-Haus is located at 1,804 meters on the edge of the Rax plateau and is one of the most traditional huts in the region. Surrounded by wide alpine meadows and striking rock faces, it is a popular base for hikes across the plateau and to the surrounding peaks. A cozy stop with regional cuisine makes it an ideal resting and starting point for tours on the Rax.
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The Raxkirchlein is a small chapel on the Rax plateau and is considered the highest church in Lower Austria. Simple and exposed, it blends harmoniously into the vast alpine landscape and is a special place of tranquility. From here, a beautiful view also opens up over the plateau and the surrounding peaks of the Rax.
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The Heukuppe, at 2,007 meters, is the highest peak in the Rax and marks the easternmost two-thousand-meter peak in the Alps. From the expansive plateau, an unassuming ascent leads to the highest point, rewarding with an impressive panoramic view over the Vienna Alps and far into the Lower Austrian Prealps. Despite the gentle summit shape, you can feel the alpine vastness and the special location on the edge of the Eastern Alps up here.
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Dreamlike view over the vast Raxplateau with impressive long-distance visibility into the surrounding Vienna Alps. The exposed location at 1,785 meters makes every break a special panoramic experience with fresh mountain air and a wide horizon. Perfect for a delightful snack stop before continuing strengthened along the scenic paths.
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The Habsburghaus is a historic and managed mountain hut of the Austrian Alpine Club at 1,785 m on the Grieskogel in the Rax, Vienna Alps, often called the “Acropolis of the Rax” due to its exposed location. From here, a wide view opens up over the surrounding peaks and plateaus, and it is a popular destination and resting point for mountain hikers and via ferrata tours of various difficulty levels. The hut offers regional cuisine, cozy lounges, and overnight accommodation in multi-bed rooms and dormitories – access is exclusively on foot via marked trails or from the Rax cable car.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Schwarzau im Gebirge?
There are over 35 hiking trails around Schwarzau im Gebirge, catering to various skill levels. You'll find 7 easy routes, 15 moderate trails, and 16 difficult ascents, ensuring options for everyone from casual walkers to experienced mountaineers.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Schwarzau im Gebirge?
Yes, Schwarzau im Gebirge offers several family-friendly hikes. The Naturpark Falkenstein-Schwarzau im Gebirge provides easy trails suitable for all ages, featuring animal enclosures and a themed trail. Hikes to the Gahnsberg are also noted as suitable for families, offering breathtaking views. For a moderate option, consider the Small chapel on the Kirchensteig – Falkenstein Summit Viewpoint loop from Schwarzau im Gebirge, which leads through forested slopes.
Can I find circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, many routes in Schwarzau im Gebirge are designed as loops. For example, the Franz Jonas Trail – Sonnleitstein Peak loop from Hinternaßwald is a popular moderate circular route. Another excellent option is the Waldfreundhütte Obersberg – Obersberg Summit loop from Schwarzau im Gebirge, which takes you to the panoramic Obersberg summit.
Are there any trails with waterfalls or unique natural features?
The region is known for its karst landscape, featuring springs and impressive waterfalls. The Schwarza Waterfalls are easily accessible via a pleasant walk just a few kilometers from the village center. Additionally, the Naturpark Falkenstein-Schwarzau im Gebirge offers diverse landscapes, from riverbanks to steep rocky areas, and is home to unique plant and animal species.
What are some notable viewpoints or landmarks along the trails?
Schwarzau im Gebirge offers numerous scenic viewpoints. The Rax massif features the Otto-Haus, providing magnificent panoramic views across the Rax plateau. Hikes to the Gahnsberg and Obersberg also offer stunning vistas. The Falkenstein Summit Viewpoint is another popular spot. You can also explore nearby attractions like the Ochsattel Pass or the Klostertaler Gscheid Pass.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Schwarzau im Gebirge?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 1,400 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, ranging from green forests and deep valleys to alpine meadows, as well as the stunning views from peaks like Obersberg and the challenging yet rewarding ascents in the Schneeberg and Rax massifs.
Are there any long-distance hiking routes that pass through Schwarzau im Gebirge?
Yes, the region is part of the Nordalpenweg (Northern Alpine Trail), a significant long-distance route that traverses Austria. This offers opportunities for multi-day treks or for hikers looking to experience a section of a larger trail network.
Are there mountain huts or places to rest along the trails?
Yes, the region provides cozy resting points. The Otto-Haus on the Rax massif is a traditional mountain lodge with a large sun terrace. Other mountain huts like the Almreserlhaus and Öhler Hut offer regional delicacies and impressive views, providing convenient stops during longer hikes.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Schwarzau im Gebirge?
The region is beautiful year-round, but the best time for hiking generally depends on the specific trails and your preferences. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer is ideal for higher alpine routes. Some trails may be suitable for winter hiking, but conditions can vary, especially in higher elevations like Schneeberg and Rax.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced mountaineers?
Absolutely. Schwarzau im Gebirge is surrounded by the majestic Schneeberg and Rax massifs, which offer demanding alpine expeditions. Routes like the Weichtalklamm on Schneeberg present challenging terrain with light climbing. The Habsburghaus Mountain Hut – Kaisersteig through the forest loop from Hinternaßwald is another difficult route with significant elevation gain.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the trails?
The terrain around Schwarzau im Gebirge is highly varied. You can expect green forests, deep valleys, and lush alpine meadows. It's also a typical karst landscape, meaning you might encounter unique features like half-caves and springs. Trails range from flat riverbanks to gentle slopes and steep, rocky areas, especially in the higher elevations of the Schneeberg and Rax massifs.
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