Hiking to the "Plankensteinalm" (Alpine pasture) in Gosau
Between Hallstatt and Gosau
The "Plankensteinalm" (Name of the alpine pasture) between Hallstatt and Gosau is worth a visit because it is the largest contiguous alpine pasture area in the Dachstein area and offers beautiful, untouched nature that is reminiscent of pictures from films. The alpine pasture is located at an altitude of 1530 meters between the mountains "Plassen" and the "König Dachstein" and is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. From the alpine pasture you have a breathtaking view of Hallstatt, Lake Hallstatt and Obertraun. The Plankensteinalm is a living example of traditional alpine farming, with dairy cows, young cattle, Noriker horses, goats and alpine pigs.
There are various hiking trails that lead to the Plankensteinalm, such as the "World Heritage Hike Löckenmoos"-Plankensteinalm. In summary, it can be said that the Plankensteinalm is a worthwhile destination that will delight both nature lovers and families with children. Note: The Leutgebhütte is no longer open to the public!
More about the route
There are many paths to the "Plankensteinalm" between Hallstatt and Gosau. We have focused on these versions in the following descriptions:
At the sports field in the Gosau village of "Mittertal"
The hike to the "Plankensteinalm" starts from the car park at the sports centre in the Gosau village of "Mittertal". The first section leads along the Gosaubach stream before you turn onto the hiking trail "W 513", "W 648" and "W6" into the forest. Along the Brielgraben and past the Roßalmgraben, the path continues to a junction. If you stay on the path "W 513" you will finally come to the Plankensteinalm.
From the "Hornspitzseilbahn in the Gosau village of "Mittertal"
Starting point Mittertal: From the car park at the Honspitzbahn, the hiking trail "W 511" leads comfortably through the forest to the Schäferalm (not managed). There the path splits. Either you continue in the direction of the hiking trail "W 513" to the "Plankensteinalm" or you make a small detour and continue to the right in the direction of the "Löckernmoosberg" high moor. In addition to an overwhelming natural landscape, the high moor "Deckenhochmoor" also offers rare animal and plant species. Past the "Triamerhütte" (name of the mountain hut), the path continues to the "Plankensteinalm".
From the reservoir in the Gosau district of "Hintertal"
Starting point Hintertal: Shortly before the reservoir in the Gosau district of "Hintertal" there is a small car park on the left-hand side. From there, the path leads partly on the forest road and partly through the forest to the "Badstubenhütte) (name of the managed mountain hut) at the grindstone quarries. Continue to the high moor called "Löckenmoos", past the Triamerhütte to the "Plankensteinalm".
Alternative offers
If you want to avoid the ascent from the Gosau Valley, you can also take the "Gosauer Bummelzug" (Slow train) to the mountain hut called "Badstub'n Hütte". This is located below the high moor called "Löckermoos" and nearby "Schleifsteinbrüche". From there it is only about a 45-minute walk to the "Plankensteinalm". The train runs several times a week to the "Badstub'n Hütte".
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...
Einkehrmöglichkeiten & weitere Angebote Rest stops & other offers
Places of happiness: Löckernmoos & Wildfrauenloch in Gosau
Gosau | Löckernmoos & Wildfrauenloch: This name originated from a legend – for it is said that on “Vorderen Grubalm” there once lived wild (‘wild’ is here to be understood as ‘shy’) virgins in a crevice - the so-called " Wildfrauenloch " (wild woman hole).
Slow train Gosau
A special experience for both young and old alike. Slowly and unhurried through the Gosau Valley - time is irrelevant.
All tours at a glance
Here you will find an overview of all hiking tours in and around the Lake Hallstatt area, at a glance. From the high alpine hikes to leisurely tours in the valley.
“Badstub’n Hütte” (hut) in Gosau
Gosau | Badstub’n Hütte: Cosy rustic meeting place for hikers and nature lovers with sweet teeth. Ascent to the hut about 1.5 hours. Alpine pastures with play opportunities for children. Ascent is also possible with the slow train.
Hike to the Grindstone Quarries in Gosau
Family-friendly hike to one of the most historic places in the Gosau valley. The hike can be combined with a visit to the "Löckermoos" high moor. Numerous panoramic views over the Gosau valley accompany you along the way.
Hike to the Zwölferkogel in Obertraun
High-alpine tour of about 3.5 hours. The mountain enthusiast will be rewarded with a fantastically beautiful distant view. And as an encore, Lake Hallstatt at their feet. The tour is moderately difficult and is also suitable for experienced and well-equipped mountain climbing families.
Available accommodation for your hiking holiday in the Salzkammergut
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.