Hike to the Salt Mine & Skywalk in Hallstatt
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Ascent to the Salzberg
Most people who visit the Salzberg in Hallstatt take the train to the high valley. But there is another great alternative that is a lot of fun: An eventful hike to the Skywalk and the oldest salt mine in the world - the Salt Mine. A "walk-in waterfall" and lots of "knowledge to go" await hiking enthusiasts. So it pays off!
Ascent to the Salt Mountain
Our hiking tour to the Hallstatt Salt Mine begins at the valley station of the Salzberg funicular. First, you go up the mountain on an asphalt road - always with a magnificent view of Lake Hallstatt and the unique Alpine panorama. After about 500 meters we pass a small lookout hut on the right. You should make a short stop here, because the view of the center of Hallstatt is almost fairytale-like.
Walk-in waterfall
After this fantastic view, we continue on the Salzbergweg to the terrace of the Mühlbach gorge. Impressive and phenomenal! On a bridge you can enter directly into the Mühlbach gorge and then you are at eye level with the thundering waterfall. Very impressive, especially during the snowmelt in spring.
Hallstatt at our feet
Then it goes on the serpentine-like hiking trail past the former entrance to the Kaiser Franz-Joseph-Stollen, past numerous historical display boards, past the old smithy, and on to the mountain station of the Salzberg funicular - which you can already see at the last bend in the way. Once you have passed the large panoramic viewing bridge – which spans between the Rudolf Tower and the mountain station – the wide Salzberg high valley with the majestic Plassen opens up to you.
Wide high valley
For more than 7,000 years, the Hallstatt high valley has determined the fates, deprivations and achievements of the people in this region due to the vital importance of salt. Here you will find stories of the dark days and the radiant power of the "white gold" at every turn. There are probably very few places in the world that convey such a sense of historical dimensions as this small high valley, after which an entire epoch of mankind was named.
Route steeped in history
From the mountain station of the funicular, a path leads to the mine entrance of the salt mine, which we reach in 20 minutes. The first information boards and a simple monument created by Prof. Clemens Holzmeister remind us of the Hallstatt period and of the 2000 graves of the burial ground, which was discovered in 1846 by mining master Johann Georg Ramsauer
Tips: Hiking in spring
The days in the Salzkammergut are getting longer. The temperatures are finally getting warmer, more and more hikers are heading to the mountains. But be careful: Especially in spring, there are a few things to consider: There is often still a lot of snow on the mountains, so be careful when crossing snowfields. After winter, you are usually still a bit "rusty", so warm up accordingly in advance and plan your tour carefully. Let your host know the planned route. This can lead to quick help in an emergency. But there's more to consider:
Tips: Hiking in spring
The days in the Salzkammergut are getting longer. The temperatures are finally getting warmer, more and more hikers are heading to the mountains. But be careful: Especially in spring, there are a few things to consider: There is often still a lot of snow on the mountains, so be careful when crossing snowfields. After winter, you are usually still a bit "rusty", so warm up accordingly in advance and plan your tour carefully. Let your host know the planned route. This can lead to quick help in an emergency. But there's more to consider:
Safety Tips for Hikers
Admittedly, the landscape of the UNESCO World Heritage region of Hallstatt Dachstein Salzkammergut is the absolute pinnacle for hiking fans, mountain enthusiasts and nature lovers—unforgettable tours to incredibly beautiful mountain lodges and meadows, panorama views as far as the eye can see and cherished moments that will last a lifetime! However, you should remember that while hiking you might find yourself in high-alpine terrain. We’ve put together some resources to assist you: how to best prepare for your tour, recommended items for your backpack and steps to take in an emergency situation. Remember to always play it safe and enjoy your hiking adventure in the Salzkammergut!
Warning: Closed trails
Better to know before you go
Hiking trails in the Salzkammergut can be closed for various reasons. To help you prepare for your hike, we have set up a page with current road closures in the region. This will help you get to your destination without any detours or stress. Click here to visit the page...
Experience on the Salzberg in Hallstatt
“Skywalk“ of Hallstatt
Hallstatt | Salzberg: Everyone needs a bit of excitement! 350 meters above the rooftops of Hallstatt: The spectacular viewing platform "World Heritage View" on the Salzberg (salt mountain). A must to be experienced!
Hallstatt Salt Worlds
Hallstatt | Salt mine: On the trail of the "Man in Salt" in the oldest salt mine in the world. Going through tunnels which have been hand dug by people over 3000 years ago. A Family Experience!
Restaurant in the Rudolsturm in Hallstatt
Sweet tooths will find everything their heart desires high above the old salt mining town. Double pleasure at a historical place ...
Events along the way
Daily tours through the Salt Mine "Salzwelten" in Hallstatt
Mon, Apr. 29, 2024 Salt mine (Salzwelten) Hallstatt, Hallstatt
Live excavations in Hallstatt
Mon, Jul. 1, 2024 10:00 — 16:00 Salzberg , Hallstatt
“Prehistoric Expedition” through the oldest salt mine of the world
Tue, Jul. 2, 2024 11:00 Salzberg , Hallstatt
Mountain mass at the "Sattelalm" in Hallstatt
Sat, Jul. 6, 2024 12:00 Salzberg , Hallstatt
Archaeologists & Restorers Live in Hallstatt
Mon, Aug. 19, 2024 10:00 — 16:00 Salzberg , Hallstatt
Hallstatt booking - Are you still looking for accommodation?
Hotels and accommodation providers in Hallstatt, Bad Goisern, Gosau and Obertraun offer the ideal room or apartment for your holidays, no matter what your tastes. Aside from establishments rated according to the international "star" scale, you will also find around Lake Hallstatt in Austria businesses that have been awarded two to four "edelweiss". The more flowers, the greater comforts you can expect. Whether you eventually find your cozy nest in an elegant 5-star luxury hotel, at comfortable guesthouse, a family-friendly apartment, or on a traditional farm, the choice is always entirely up to you.