The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Hinterer Gosausee

The Hinterer Gosausee region offers a wide variety of trails suitable for families. You'll find over 60 easy routes and more than 130 moderate options, ensuring there's something for every family's ability and preference.

The area around Hinterer Gosausee is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. You can expect to encounter the dramatic Dachstein Massif reflected in the crystal-clear waters of the lake, dense forests, rugged cliffs, and expansive alpine meadows. Mountain streams and occasional waterfalls also add to the picturesque alpine scenery.

For families with younger children or those using strollers, trails with less elevation gain and shorter distances are ideal. Consider the Oberhofalm – Unterhofalm, Filzmoos loop from Marchegg, which is just under 2.5 km with minimal elevation, offering a pleasant and accessible walk.

Many trails offer beautiful sights. You can visit the tranquil Rear Gosau Lake itself, or enjoy the panoramic views from the Viewpoint at the Hinterer Gosausee with views of the Dachstein and Holzmeisteralm. There are also charming alpine huts like Hohe Holzmeisteralm and Holzmeister Alm, which can be great spots for a break.

The trails to Hinterer Gosausee are generally accessible from May to late October. During this period, you'll experience vibrant greens and blues in spring and summer, and stunning autumn colors later in the year. Winter access beyond Vorderer Gosausee is typically closed due to snow, so planning your visit within the warmer months is recommended for family hikes.

Yes, circular routes are a great way to explore the area without retracing your steps. The Hofpürgl Hut – View of Bischofsmütze loop from Marchegg is a moderate 6 km loop with manageable elevation, offering diverse scenery and a rewarding viewpoint.

The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience around Hinterer Gosausee, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 7,200 ratings. Hikers often praise the breathtaking reflections of the Dachstein massif in the lake, the well-maintained paths, and the overall peaceful and unspoiled nature of the area, making it a favorite for families.

Yes, parking is generally available at common starting points for hikes in the region. For trails leading to Hinterer Gosausee, you'll typically find parking facilities near Vorderer Gosausee, which serves as a gateway to the more remote areas.

For families looking for a bit more of a challenge with great rewards, the Sulzenschneid route is a moderate 9.8 km hike with significant elevation gain through alpine landscapes, offering expansive views. Another option is the Kesselwand (1,750 m) – Linzersteig Below Gosaustein loop from Marchegg, a 7.5 km moderate trail with beautiful scenery.

Yes, several mountain huts, such as Hohe Holzmeisteralm and Holzmeister Alm, provide opportunities for rest and refreshment. These huts are often located along popular routes and offer a chance to enjoy local hospitality amidst the stunning alpine scenery.

While specific regulations can vary, generally, dogs are welcome on trails in the region, especially if kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to check local signage or specific trail rules for any restrictions, particularly in nature reserve areas or near alpine pastures with grazing animals. Remember to bring water for your dog and clean up after them.