Nature begins right at your doorstep.

Whether it’s a leisurely stroll along the lake or a challenging mountain hike—you’ll find trails for every skill level around Lake Traunsee.

The following descriptions and difficulty ratings are based on our personal experiences and assessments. The walking times and elevation gains listed apply to hikes that start and end at our place, the Hois’n.

Depending on the weather, your fitness level, and hiking experience, a tour can vary in difficulty. We’d be happy to advise you personally at the front desk. For hikes in our area, we definitely recommend sturdy footwear, plenty of drinking water, and appropriate hiking gear.

Kaltenbach Wilderness

Wildly romantic & unspoiled

The Kaltenbach Wilderness offers a short, impressive hike just above Lake Traunsee. The trail winds through a wildly romantic gorge featuring rocks, small waterfalls, and beautiful views of the lake. An ideal hike for anyone looking to combine nature and exercise without spending too much time.

Walking time: approx. 1.5 hours
Difficulty: easy to moderate
Elevation gain: approx. 180 m

Miesweg

The classic trail right by the lake

The Miesweg is one of the most scenic trails around Lake Traunsee. The trail leads directly along the steep rock faces of the Traunstein via narrow footbridges and through short rock tunnels. Impressive views of Lake Traunsee and the surrounding mountain landscape open up time and again.

Walking time: approx. 2.5 hours
Difficulty: easy to moderate
Elevation gain: approx. 150 m

Katzenstein

The Little Viewpoint Mountain

The Katzenstein is a scenic peak above Lake Laudach. The varied trail leads through forests and over alpine paths up to an impressive viewpoint overlooking Lake Traunsee and the Salzkammergut. From the summit, there is a particularly beautiful view of the Traunstein and Lake Laudach far below.

Hiking time: approx. 5 hours
Difficulty: moderate to difficult
Elevation gain: approx. 850 m

Traunstein

The local mountain – impressive & challenging

The Traunstein is the striking local mountain of Lake Traunsee and one of the most famous mountain hikes in the Salzkammergut. The challenging ascent leads up steep mountain trails through impressive rocky landscapes to the summit at 1,691 m. Once at the top, you are rewarded with a spectacular panoramic view of Lake Traunsee, the Salzkammergut, and the surrounding Alps.

Routes to the summit:

Mairalmsteig
The Mairalmsteig is considered the most scenic route up the Traunstein. The trail first leads through the Lainau Valley and then follows a varied path with rock steps and wire ropes toward the summit. The trail is challenging but offers particularly impressive views of Lake Traunsee.
Naturfreundesteig
The Naturfreundesteig is the best-known and most frequently used ascent route to the Traunstein. The trail leads steadily uphill to the summit over numerous rock steps and secured passages and is technically somewhat more demanding than the other routes. In return, it offers spectacular views of Lake Traunsee along the way.
Hernlersteig
The Hernlersteig is the shortest and most direct ascent to the Traunstein. The trail runs through steep forested and rocky terrain and leads relatively straight to the summit. Due to the steep sections, it is considered challenging but is very popular among experienced hikers.

Hiking time: approx. 6–7 hours
Difficulty: challenging
Elevation gain: approx. 1,200 m

Traunstein Loop

Spectacular natural scenery without the hassle of summiting

The Traunstein Loop is one of the most varied hikes around Lake Traunsee. The trail connects several scenic highlights, such as the Miesweg, the Lainau Valley, and the idyllic Laudachsee. Along the way, you’ll be treated to impressive views of the Traunstein and Lake Traunsee time and again.

Walking time: approx. 5–6 hours
Difficulty: moderate
Elevation gain: approx. 500 m

Grünberg

Panoramic views across the entire lake

Grünberg is a popular hiking destination offering magnificent views. The trail leads through peaceful forests up to the summit, where a sweeping view of Lake Traunsee and the Salzkammergut unfolds. At the top, several lookout points and places to stop for refreshments invite you to linger.

Hiking time: approx. 4 hours
Difficulty: easy to moderate
Elevation gain: approx. 600 m

Laudachsee

Idyllic & peaceful setting

Laudachsee is idyllically situated at the foot of the Traunstein and is a popular destination for hikers. From Hois’n, the trail leads through the Lainau Valley and varied forest landscapes up to the picturesque mountain lake. On the shore, a cozy snack bar invites you to take a well-deserved break.

Walking time: approx. 4 hours
Difficulty: easy to moderate
Elevation gain: approx. 450 m

Kleiner Schönberg

A hidden gem with sweeping views

The Kleiner Schönberg is a quiet peak offering stunning views, away from the crowds. The hike takes you through varied forest and mountain landscapes, with frequent beautiful views of Lake Traunsee and Mount Traunstein. At the summit, an impressive panorama of the Salzkammergut mountains awaits you.

Hiking time: approx. 4 hours
Difficulty: moderate
Elevation gain: approx. 600 m