The best walks and hikes around Erlaufstausee
4.6
(2781)
20,262
hikers
220
hikes
Hiking around Erlaufstausee offers diverse terrain, with the lake nestled between the Styrian Alps and the forests of Lower Austria. The region features views of the Erlauf Reservoir, the Ötscher Mountains, and the Gemeindealpe. Numerous water bodies, including mountain lakes, waterfalls, and streams, characterize the landscape, providing varied scenery for hikers.
Best hiking trails around Erlaufstausee
- The most popular hiking route is Mirafall waterfall – Ötschergräben and Lassingfall loop from Erlaufklause, an 8.4 miles (13.5 km) trail that takes about 4 hours 30 minutes to complete. This difficult route leads through the Ötschergräben (Ötscher Canyons) and past the Mirafall waterfall.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Watermill on the Mühlbach – Ötschergräben and Lassingfall loop from Erlaufklause, a moderate 6.0 miles (9.6 km) path. This trail explores the Ötschergräben, passing the Lassingfall waterfall and a historic watermill.
- Local hikers also love the Watermill on the Mühlbach – Ötscherhias Snack Station loop from Mitterbach am Erlaufsee, a 4.5 miles (7.2 km) trail leading through forested areas and past the watermill, often completed in about 2 hours 30 minutes.
- Hiking around Erlaufstausee is defined by serene lake views, impressive mountain backdrops, and a multitude of water bodies including waterfalls and streams. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy strolls to challenging mountain treks.
- The routes in Erlaufstausee are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 2,700 reviews. More than 20,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Erlaufstausee's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
4.9
(100)
559
hikers
13.5km
04:32
330m
330m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.6
(19)
118
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.7
(6)
100
hikers
27.7km
11:37
1,420m
1,420m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.4
(10)
48
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.9
(14)
78
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
Turning off the main street of Mitterbach, opposite the lumber yard, we can reach this point, from which there is a nice view of the Erlaufstausee. The lake was created artificially, we can only see a small part of it from this point. Unfortunately, we cannot ride bicycles on the hiking trails. For a break, we can stop at the Stapelhaus cafeteria, from whose terrace we can also see the lake.
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The Erlauf Reservoir Tavern at the entrance to the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park is a real insider tip. From the terrace, you can enjoy magnificent views of the Erlauf Reservoir, the Ötscher Mountains, and the Gemeindealpe. The modern stacked house, built from nine tons of local wood, invites you to enjoy small snacks and refreshments after a hike. The tavern is open from 11 a.m. on weekends from May to October (almost daily in summer).
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The best cream cakes of my life
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Due to its isolated position, the mountain is visible from 100 km away
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The weather tree on the Ötscher, also known as the "weather tree in the Ötscher", was created by the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park.
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Interesting work in the middle of nature.
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A beautiful lake in the middle of the mountains, ideal for hiking, pedal boating and as a backdrop for one of the numerous MTB tours.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Erlaufstausee?
There are over 200 hiking routes around Erlaufstausee, offering diverse experiences for all skill levels. These include 76 easy routes, 102 moderate trails, and 42 more challenging options.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Erlaufstausee?
The terrain around Erlaufstausee is quite varied, ranging from serene paths directly around the lake to more challenging mountain trails in the Styrian Alps and through the forests of Lower Austria. You'll encounter picturesque lake views, impressive mountain backdrops, and numerous water bodies, including streams and waterfalls.
Are there any easy or family-friendly hiking options in the area?
Yes, Erlaufstausee offers many easy and family-friendly routes. A popular choice is the circular path directly around the lake, which is about 3.5 kilometers long and suitable for walkers. There are also 76 easy routes available, perfect for a relaxed outing.
Can I find circular hiking routes around Erlaufstausee?
Absolutely. Many trails around Erlaufstausee are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the "Erlaufstauseerunde klein" is a small circuit of approximately 3 km, and the "Erlaufstauseerunde groß" is a larger circuit of about 5.5 km.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls or gorges?
Yes, the region is known for its impressive waterfalls and gorges. A notable route is the Mirafall waterfall – Ötschergräben and Lassingfall loop from Erlaufklause, which takes you through the stunning Ötschergräben (Ötscher Canyons) and past the Mirafall waterfall. Another option is the Watermill on the Mühlbach – Ötschergräben and Lassingfall loop from Erlaufklause, which also explores the Ötschergräben and passes the Lassingfall waterfall.
What are some interesting landmarks or viewpoints along the hiking trails?
Hikers can discover several interesting points of interest. You can visit the Old Bridge at Erlaufstausee, explore the Water Trail at Erlaufklause Reservoir, or enjoy the views from the Erlaufstausee tavern with a view of the Ötscher. Ambitious hikers can also find routes leading to wonderful viewpoints like the Gemeindealpe.
Is Erlaufstausee a good destination for winter hiking?
Yes, Erlaufstausee is suitable for winter hiking. The circular trails around the lake remain accessible even in winter, offering fantastic views of the snow-covered landscape. It's a great way to experience the region's beauty in a different season.
Are there places to eat or get refreshments near the trails?
Yes, there are options for refreshments. The Erlaufstausee tavern offers magnificent views from its terrace. You might also find snack stations along some routes, such as the Ötscherhias Snack Station, which is part of the Watermill on the Mühlbach – Ötscherhias Snack Station loop from Mitterbach am Erlaufsee.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Erlaufstausee?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,700 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, the stunning lake and mountain views, and the variety of trails that cater to different fitness levels, especially the impressive waterfalls and gorges.
What is the best time of year to go hiking around Erlaufstausee?
Erlaufstausee is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer is ideal for combining hikes with water activities. Even in winter, the accessible circular trails provide unique views of the snow-covered landscape.
Are there any moderate difficulty hikes that explore the natural features?
Certainly. The Watermill on the Mühlbach – Ötschergräben and Lassingfall loop from Erlaufklause is a moderate 9.6 km path that explores the Ötschergräben, passing the Lassingfall waterfall and a historic watermill. This route offers a great balance of challenge and scenic beauty.
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