The best traffic-free bike rides in High Tauern

The High Tauern region offers a vast selection of touring cycling routes designed to minimize traffic exposure. On komoot, you'll find over 500 such routes, with a good mix of difficulties: more than 110 easy routes, over 150 moderate, and nearly 250 challenging options for experienced cyclists.

The terrain varies significantly, from gentle valley paths to demanding alpine climbs. Many routes follow picturesque river valleys like the Salzach and Drau, offering predominantly downhill or gently sloping sections. For instance, the Tauern Cycle Path is largely downhill from the Krimml Waterfalls. Other routes, especially those venturing into higher elevations, will feature significant ascents and descents, providing breathtaking views of the alpine landscape.

Yes, the High Tauern region is well-suited for family cycling. Routes like sections of the Tauern Cycle Path are known for being comfortable and family-friendly, often following river valleys with gentle gradients. The Glockner Cycle Path (R8) is another excellent option, offering unique natural experiences in an alpine setting that families can enjoy together.

You'll encounter stunning natural beauty. A major highlight is the Krimml Waterfalls, Europe's largest, which is a spectacular starting point for many tours. Other notable features include alpine meadows, pristine wilderness, and dramatic mountain backdrops. Some routes offer views of the Großglockner summit and its glaciers.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in High Tauern, with an average score of 4.65 stars from over 8,800 ratings. Cyclists frequently praise the region's majestic alpine landscapes, the well-maintained network of trails, and the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature away from traffic. The challenging yet rewarding climbs and the stunning natural landmarks like the Krimml Waterfalls are often highlighted.

Absolutely. While many routes are gentle, the High Tauern also offers demanding challenges. For example, routes like the Magnificent view – Edelweißspitze loop from Fusch an der Großglocknerstraße or the View of the Hochtor Pass – Hochtor Pass Summit (2504 m) loop from Winkl involve significant elevation gains, often traversing sections of the iconic Grossglockner High Alpine Road. These routes provide rewarding experiences with breathtaking panoramic views.

The best time for touring cycling in the High Tauern region is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is more stable, mountain passes are typically clear of snow, and the alpine meadows are vibrant. Summer offers the warmest temperatures, while spring and autumn provide cooler rides and stunning seasonal colors.

Yes, many no-traffic touring routes in High Tauern are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the View of the Krimml Waterfalls – Krimmler Ache Valley loop from Krimml, which offers a substantial ride through the valley, or the challenging View of the Fuscher Törl – Alpine Nature Show House loop from Törlkopf.

The High Tauern region has good public transport connections, which can be beneficial for accessing cycling routes, especially for point-to-point tours or if you prefer not to drive. Many towns and villages along popular routes are served by buses and trains, often with facilities for bike transport. It's advisable to check local timetables and bike carriage policies in advance.

Beyond the natural wonders, the region offers cultural insights. The Tauern Cycle Path, for instance, leads towards cultural centers like Salzburg. In Mittersill, you can visit the Hohe Tauern National Park Worlds Museum, which provides fascinating insights into the park's natural treasures. Many routes also pass through charming villages with traditional Austrian architecture and local eateries.

Yes, the Krimml Waterfalls are a central feature for several routes. The View of the Krimml waterfalls – Krimmler Ache Valley loop from Krimmler Achental is a great example, allowing you to experience Europe's largest waterfalls up close. You can also explore the Middle Tier of the Krimml Waterfalls or the Krimmler Ache before the uppermost waterfall.