The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Maria Schmolln
4.5
(510)
3,067
hikers
22
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Maria Schmolln are characterized by the expansive Kobernauserwald forest and the tranquil Schwemmbach stream. The region offers a network of paths through dense woodlands, open meadows, and alongside waterways. Elevation changes are generally moderate, making the terrain accessible for various fitness levels.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Maria Schmolln
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is View of the Countryside loop from Maria Schmolln, a 5.9 miles (9.4 km) trail that takes…
Last updated: October 27, 2026
4.6
(9)
41
hikers
9.44km
02:43
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
14
hikers
7.05km
02:01
160m
160m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
10
hikers
9.82km
02:48
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
3
hikers
7.18km
02:03
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
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Tips from the Community
The history of the charcoal burners in Maria Schmolln and the surrounding region of the Kobernaußerwald is deeply rooted in the local forestry tradition. Before Maria Schmolln rose to become a well-known place of pilgrimage, the region was primarily a rugged, wooded wilderness that served as a livelihood for the people. The charcoal burner trade shaped the town over centuries through the following developments: • The guardians of the Kobernaußerwald: Together with shovel makers and pitch burners, the charcoal burners were among the oldest professional groups in the Kobernaußerwald. They often lived deep in the forest for weeks at a time to produce charcoal from wood through painstaking manual labor. • A hard and lonely profession: The charcoal burners built so-called kilns (Meiler) from tree trunks and a covering of earth and moss. These had to smolder in a controlled manner for days without catching fire. The work was extremely dirty, exhausting, and required enormous knowledge of wood and the weather. • The boom after the First World War: While many old crafts (such as the Kipfenmacher) died out over time, the Schmolln charcoal burner trade experienced a strong resurgence in the years after the First World War. • Saviors during the energy crisis: Due to the lack of coal supplies from abroad after the war, the local charcoal burners were the most important energy suppliers in the region. The charcoal produced in Maria Schmolln was delivered in large quantities to the surrounding factories and hammer mills of the Mattigtal and ensured the survival of many families. Today, the traditional craft of commercial charcoal burning in Maria Schmolln has disappeared, but the memory of the soot-blackened forest workers as pioneers of the region remains firmly anchored in local history and the collective memory of the Kobernaußerwald.
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At the Marterl & the information board about the charcoal burners, you can either follow the path to the left, which leads to the village of Maria Schmolln, or you can continue to the right and have the chance to follow the path further through the forest towards the outdoor pool, or you can go right and leave the forest, then you can choose again between following the road to the left or going right and continuing towards Großenaich.
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The Roman Catholic pilgrimage church of Maria Schmolln is located in the municipality of Maria Schmolln in the district of Braunau in Upper Austria.
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There is a drinking water fountain in front of the church and a public toilet opposite
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About 80 hm in the Maria Schmolln pilgrimage route
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Wonderful church with beautiful frescoes
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Maria Schmolln is a well-known place of pilgrimage that attracts many pilgrims every year. The church was completed and consecrated in 1863, and the Chapel of Mercy was added in 1880. In this is the miraculous image of the Holy Mother of God Mary, to which the origin of the pilgrimage and the place itself goes back.
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Nice pilgrimage church
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Maria Schmolln?
Maria Schmolln offers a wonderful selection of family-friendly hikes, with over 20 routes to explore. These include 9 easy trails and 14 moderate options, ensuring there's something for every family's comfort level.
Are there any easy, short circular walks suitable for families with young children?
Yes, for families seeking an easier, shorter option, the Winding Road at Teiseneck loop from Maria Schmolln is an excellent choice. This easy 5.8 km loop is perfect for a relaxed outing with younger children, offering gentle terrain through the scenic landscape.
What kind of terrain can we expect on the family-friendly trails in Maria Schmolln?
The trails around Maria Schmolln generally feature easily accessible paths, often winding through the serene Kobernauserwald Forest, alongside the tranquil Schwemmbach stream, and across meadows. You can expect a mix of forest paths, gravel tracks, and some paved sections, making them suitable for various skill levels and offering a pleasant walking experience.
Are there any trails where we might spot wildlife?
The region, particularly around the Schwemmbach stream and within the Kobernauserwald Forest, is rich in diverse wildlife. The Deer sign on the trail – Hubertus Chapel Uttendorf loop from Maria Schmolln is a great option for those hoping to spot local fauna, as its name suggests. Keep an eye out for fish, frogs, dragonflies, and various bird species.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Maria Schmolln?
Most hiking trails in Maria Schmolln are dog-friendly, making it a great destination for families who want to bring their furry companions along. Always remember to keep your dog on a leash, especially in forested areas and near wildlife, and to clean up after them.
What are some interesting natural landmarks or attractions we can see on a hike?
Maria Schmolln is surrounded by natural beauty and historical sites. You can discover impressive natural monuments like the 1000-Year-Old Lime Tree or the Riesentanne – Oldest Tree of the Kobernaußerwald. The Pilgrimage Church Maria Schmolln itself is also a significant landmark often integrated into routes.
Is there a trail that offers particularly good views of the surrounding countryside?
For scenic vistas, the View of the Countryside loop from Maria Schmolln is highly recommended. This moderate trail lives up to its name, providing expansive views over the picturesque landscapes of the Innviertel region.
Where can we park when visiting the hiking trails?
Parking is generally available at various trailheads and near the Pilgrimage Church in Maria Schmolln. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route pages, but you'll typically find convenient spots to start your family adventure.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Maria Schmolln?
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Maria Schmolln, with an average score of 4.55 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, well-maintained forest paths, the tranquil atmosphere, and the diverse scenery that makes these routes enjoyable for all ages.
Are there any trails that pass by water features like streams or ponds?
Absolutely! The Fish Ponds loop from Maria Schmolln is a fantastic option for families who enjoy walking by water. This moderate route takes you past serene fish ponds, offering a peaceful setting and potential opportunities for wildlife observation.
Can we reach the hiking trails using public transport?
While Maria Schmolln is primarily accessed by car, local bus services connect the village to nearby towns. It's advisable to check the current bus schedules and routes to see which services stop closest to your desired trailhead, as direct public transport access to all trailheads may be limited.
Is there a good moderate-difficulty loop for families looking for a slightly longer hike?
For families seeking a moderate challenge with varied scenery, the Hiking loop from Maria Schmolln is a great choice. This 7 km loop offers a good balance of distance and elevation, providing an engaging experience without being overly strenuous.
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