WIR Circular Hiking Trail
WIR Circular Hiking Trail
4.9
(24)
104
hikers
WIR Circular Hiking Trail
06:59
22.5km
820m
Hiking
Hike the difficult 14.0-mile Round tour via Schöpfl and Gföhlberg in the Vienna Woods, featuring panoramic views from Matraswarte.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
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3.55 km
Heinrich-Gith Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
4.70 km
Summit cross on Schöpfl
Highlight • Summit
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Tip by
13.3 km
Gföhlberg Hut
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Tip by
13.8 km
Gföhlberg Summit
Highlight • Summit
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Tip by
22.5 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
11.5 km
4.17 km
3.96 km
2.13 km
614 m
118 m
Surfaces
11.3 km
4.46 km
4.16 km
1.61 km
695 m
251 m
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Elevation
Highest point (870 m)
Lowest point (350 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Monday 25 May
29°C
13°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How challenging is the Round tour via Schöpfl and Gföhlberg?
This is a demanding hike, rated as 'difficult' with a fitness level requirement of 6 out of 6. It covers approximately 23.4 km with significant elevation changes (around 870 meters up and down), making it suitable for experienced hikers with very good fitness and sure-footedness.
What kind of terrain can I expect on this route?
The trail features a varied terrain, including unpaved sections (about 11.3 km), natural paths (4.46 km), forest paths, and gravel roads. You will also encounter some asphalted farm roads and a short stretch (around 900 meters) on a state road. Be aware that parts of the Heinrich-Gith Trail can be boggy after heavy rain, as the Schöpfl area belongs to the sandstone Vienna Woods.
What are the main points of interest or viewpoints along the route?
The hike offers impressive views, especially from the Matraswarte at the Summit cross on Schöpfl, the highest point in the Vienna Woods. From here, you can see the surrounding hills, the Laabental valley, and on clear days, even distant Alps like Schneeberg and Rax. Other highlights include the romantic Heinrich-Gith Trail and the Gföhlberg Summit.
Are there any places to rest or get refreshments along the way?
Yes, there's an opportunity for a rest at a natural spring during the ascent. A recommended stop is the Schutzhaus at Schöpfl, located near the summit. You'll also pass the Gföhlberg Hut.
Where can I park for the Round tour via Schöpfl and Gföhlberg?
The starting point of the route is accessible, and parking options are typically available in the vicinity of the trailhead, such as in Laaben. Specific parking details may vary, so it's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.
How can I reach the trailhead by public transport?
The starting point of the route is accessible by public transport. For detailed schedules and connections to places like Laaben or Klammhöhe, it's best to consult local public transport websites or apps for the Vienna Woods region.
Is the Round tour via Schöpfl and Gföhlberg dog-friendly?
While the Vienna Woods generally welcome dogs, specific rules may apply within the Biosphere Reserve. Dogs are typically allowed on trails but should be kept on a leash, especially in forested areas and near wildlife. Always carry waste bags and ensure your dog is fit enough for this challenging, long hike.
What is the best time of year to hike this route?
The trail offers a romantic climb in all seasons. However, due to potentially boggy sections on the Heinrich-Gith Trail after rain, and the overall length and elevation, spring, summer, and early autumn are generally the most pleasant times. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear and experience for snowy or icy conditions.
Do I need any permits or is there an entrance fee for this trail?
No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike this trail. The Vienna Woods are a publicly accessible natural area.
Are there any special regulations for hiking in the Biosphärenpark Wienerwald?
Yes, as this route is within the Biosphärenpark Wienerwald (Vienna Woods Biosphere Reserve), please adhere to general conservation rules: stay on marked paths, do not disturb wildlife, do not pick plants, and take all your litter with you. Camping and open fires are generally prohibited outside designated areas.
Does this route connect with other hiking trails?
Yes, the route intersects with several other trails. You will find sections that are part of the WIR-Rundwanderweg, Klammhöhestrecke, Bernau - Gföhl - Stollberg-Laaben und Gaisberg, and the Waldmarkweg, among others. This offers possibilities for extending or modifying your hike if desired.
Is there an alternative for the boggy sections of the Heinrich-Gith Trail?
Yes, if you wish to avoid potentially boggy passages on the Heinrich-Gith Trail, there is a slightly flatter 'Pensioners' Trail' available as an alternative for part of the ascent to Schöpfl.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
When I found out that Schöpfl was the highest point in the Vienna Woods, I wrote it down in my to-do list. Now the problem was getting to Laaben because Google Maps couldn't calculate a route to get there, until I found out about ÖBB skotty and was able to plan the journey. So, in 4 sections, 40A, U6, REX51 and 456, I should get to Laaben alive. The problem was that from Neulengbach Stadt Bahnhst to the bus stop I only had 5 minutes and the train arrived 4 minutes late, so when I found the stop I could see the 456 bus leaving. It's not nice to wait an hour at 0ºC and I already had one hour less to complete the route that I had calculated in 7 hours with margin for unforeseen events. I started walking somewhat annoyed. The path is well signposted and has no technical or orientation difficulties and in less than 2 hours I was at the top of Schöpfl. Now I had to decide whether to continue the planned route or return the same way. Continuing meant walking quickly without stopping, with the uncertainty of whether I would find a lot of snow or mud, and turning back made me very angry after so much effort. Finally I decided to continue the route and hope that nothing unexpected would happen. It went well and when I reached the summit of Gföhlberg I saw that I could slow down and that I would arrive on time, which I did. So now I have two more summits in my collection and a fun day in the mountains.
Long tour to the two highest peaks in the Vienna Woods. Instead of the Heinrich-Gith-Steig you can also take the not so steep Pensionistensteig up to the Schöpfl.
🌄 Gföhlberg (885 m) 🌄 Wittenbachberg (846 m) 🌄 Schöpfl (893 m)
Today we went to the Hochwienerwald area. Schöpfl 893m and Gföhlberg 885m are the highest elevations in the Vienna Woods. The temperature was pleasant but the wind was very strong at times.