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Ennstal Alps
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Mountain
The Ennstal Alps in Styria and Upper Austria are characterized by their rugged limestone walls and the deeply cut Gesäuse gorge, through which the Enns River carves its path. The highest peak of the group is the Hochtor at 2369 meters, which attracts mountaineers with its demanding north faces. A large part of the mountains belongs to the Gesäuse National Park, which was established in 2002 and is known for its high biodiversity and wild watercourses. Geologically, the Ennstal Alps consist predominantly of Dachstein limestone, forming spectacular rock formations and deep canyons. The flora includes rare species such as the Ennstal lady's mantle, while griffon vultures and golden eagles are frequently spotted in the skies. Besides mountaineering, water sports on the Enns River play a significant role, with rafting and kayaking being very popular in the Gesäuse. The region has a long mining tradition, especially around the Erzberg, which borders directly to the south. For hikers, the area provides both comfortable hut-to-hut tours and extremely challenging via ferratas. Accessibility through the Enns Valley makes the region an easily reachable destination for nature enthusiasts from all over Central Europe.
- Location: Upper Austria, Austria
- Top sights: Großer Buchstein · Kleiner Ödstein · Augstein
- Nearby: Liezen (26 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -5 | -4 | 0 | 5 | 9 | 13 | 15 | 15 | 10 | 6 | 1 | -3 |
| Rain mm | 69 | 59 | 71 | 68 | 129 | 156 | 166 | 166 | 125 | 88 | 68 | 65 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Approaching the Ennstal Alps and the Gesäuse National Park is typically done via the well-developed main valley roads traversing Styria and Upper Austria. Regional transportation routes along the river Enns also provide highly scenic and practical starting points for mountaineers.
Best season
The long summer months and early autumn are generally regarded as the safest and visually most spectacular times to explore these rugged limestone mountains. Winter visits require extreme caution and alpine experience due to massive snow accumulations in the steep valleys.
Terrain & paths
This prominent mountain group is characterized by imposing limestone walls, deep river gorges, and highly structured, rocky alpine paths. Hikers must overcome significant elevation changes and rough, uneven trails that require an excellent physical condition.
What to bring
Durable hiking or mountaineering boots with an exceptionally good grip are essential to safely cross the slippery and rocky limestone sections. Depending on the chosen route, bringing ample water and windproof clothing is always a necessary and smart precaution.
Parking
Designated National Park parking areas are typically located at the entrances to the major valleys and near the most popular trailheads. During the busy summer season, these spots often fill up rapidly, which is why a very early arrival is highly recommended.
Safety
The steep limestone walls and narrow gorges present constant dangers from falling rocks and sudden slipping on damp trails. It is essential to monitor weather forecasts closely, as thunderstorms can turn the mountain paths into dangerous traps extremely quickly.
Time needed
To fully experience the diverse landscape of the Gesäuse region in the Ennstal Alps, multiple days of hiking and exploration are often required. A demanding day hike to a prominent viewpoint typically extends over a period of six to nine hours depending on pace.
Geography
Facts
- The Hochtor is the highest peak of the Ennstal Alps at 2369 meters.
- The Gesäuse National Park was officially opened in 2002.
- The Enns River overcomes a drop of over 150 meters within the Gesäuse.
- Admont hosts the world's largest monastic library in the region.
- The Erzberg is the largest siderite deposit in the world.
- There are over 500 kilometers of marked hiking trails in the mountain group.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Ennstal Alps (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Which national park is located in the Ennstal Alps?
The Gesäuse National Park is located in the heart of this mountain group.
What is characteristic of the Gesäuse?
Steep limestone cliffs and the wild gorge of the Enns River.
What is the name of the highest mountain in the group?
The Hochtor, with a height of 2,369 meters.
Is the region suitable for climbing?
Yes, the Gesäuse has a very long tradition as a climbing area.
Are there easy hiking trails?
Yes, there are also flatter thematic trails in the Enns valley floor.
Ennstal Alps: where is it located?
Ennstal Alps is located in Upper Austria, Austria.
Ennstal Alps: what is there to see?
Highlights include Großer Buchstein, Kleiner Ödstein, Augstein.
Ennstal Alps: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Ennstal Alps: why is it worth visiting?
The Ennstal Alps in Styria and Upper Austria are characterized by their rugged limestone walls and the deeply cut Gesäuse gorge, through which the Enns River carves its path.
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