Things to Do in Gesäuse National Park

Gesäuse National Park is located in Styria, Austria, established in 2002. It spans approximately 12,000 hectares, characterized by dramatic limestone peaks, deep gorges, and the untamed Enns River. The park emphasizes the free development of nature.

Gesäuse National Park offers a variety of outdoor activities including Hiking, Mountain biking, Touring cycling, Road cycling, Mountaineering, and Jogging. There are more than 90 routes available across these sports. Visitors have rated routes an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Popular hiking trails include the Haindlkarhütte via Gsengscharte, a difficult route of about 5.5 miles (8.8 km). Another frequently visited trail is Hiking Trail 641, which covers approximately 8.5 miles (13.6 km). For more options, consult the Hiking in Gesäuse National Park guide.

Yes, Gesäuse National Park offers trails suitable for various skill levels. The Johnsbacher Sagenweg: Wild John is a moderate hike of about 6.8 miles (10.9 km). For more accessible options, refer to the Easy hikes in Gesäuse National Park guide.

Mountain biking routes include the Hochscheibenalm, a difficult route of about 16 miles (26 km). The Kölblalm Hut loop is a moderate option covering approximately 9 miles (15 km). Further details are available in the MTB Trails in Gesäuse National Park guide.

Touring cyclists can explore routes like the Gateway to Gesäuse loop from Hieflau, which is about 29 miles (46.5 km). Another option is the View of Lake Leopoldsteiner loop, approximately 29.5 miles (47.4 km). More routes can be found in the Cycling in Gesäuse National Park guide.

Road cycling routes include the Buchauer Sattel loop from Radmer, a difficult route of about 52 miles (83.8 km). The Admont Abbey – Buchauer Sattel loop is another popular option, covering approximately 40 miles (64 km). The Road Cycling Routes in Gesäuse National Park guide provides additional information.

The park is known for its 'wild water - steep cliffs' motto, featuring the Enns Valley gorge and towering limestone peaks like Hochtor. Highlights include huts, summits, waterfalls, caves, lakes, mountain passes, and gorges. It is also designated as a Dark Sky Reserve, offering exceptional stargazing opportunities.

Komoot offers several guides for Gesäuse National Park, including Hiking in Gesäuse National Park, Cycling in Gesäuse National Park, and MTB Trails in Gesäuse National Park. Guides for attractions, natural monuments, and huts are also available.

The official website for Gesäuse National Park is nationalpark-gesaeuse.at. For direct inquiries, the park can be reached by phone at +43 3613 21000.

Gesäuse National Park is unique due to its wilderness character, adhering to IUCN II criteria with minimal human intervention. It is a biodiversity hotspot with endemic species and features the Enns River, one of the last unregulated alpine rivers. Its status as a Dark Sky Reserve also offers exceptional stargazing.