This multi-day long-distance hike in the Ausseerland region takes you from the Tauplitzalm to Lake Altaussee in four impressive daily stages. The route combines high alpine experiences, historic sites, clear mountain lakes, secluded alpine pastures, and comfortable mountain huts. An impressive tour through the heart of the Totes Gebirge mountains – with varied landscapes, cultural insights, and impressive panoramas.
Stage 1: Tauplitzalm – Gößl am Grundlsee
The Tauplitz 4-seater chairlift takes you up to the Tauplitzalm, the largest lake plateau in Central Europe. The trail leads down to the Großsee and Märchensee lakes. After the Öderntörl, there is a steep descent to the Ödernalm. The subsequent forest road through the Öderntal valley leads out towards Bad Mitterndorf. At Rechenplatz, the trail turns off to the Schneckenalm. The alpine huts are unmanaged, but the trail through the mountain forest down to Gößl am Grundlsee impresses with its scenic diversity. After about 5 hours of walking (↘ 900 m / ↗ 150 m), you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the Grundlsee lake. Accommodation and restaurants are easy to find in Gößl. If you still have time and energy, visit the nearby Toplitzsee lake.
Stage 2: Gößl – Pühringerhütte
The next day, the ascent begins at trail no. 214 via the “Hagl” to the Kanzlermoos and continues through the steep Draußenwald forest to the Draußengatterl (also known as the “Grausengatterl”). The Ausseer Weg trail leads over the Schafbühel to the tranquil Lahngangsee lake, which lies at the foot of the Salzofen – ideal for a rest or a quick dip.
A historical highlight is the nearby Salzofenhöhle cave, the oldest settlement in the Salzkammergut with significant finds from the Ice Age, including skeletons of cave bears. These relics can now be seen in the Kammerhofmuseum in Bad Aussee.
The route continues to the Elmgrube with the hunting lodge where Empress Elisabeth (Sisi) once stayed. After about 4 hours (↗ 930 m elevation gain), you will reach the Pühringerhütte. Those who still have energy can climb to the summit of the Rotgschirr (2,261 m). The sunset, when the glowing Rotgschirr is reflected in the Elmsee, is unforgettable.
Stage 3: Pühringerhütte – Albert Appelhaus
After returning to Elmgrube, the route climbs to Abblasbühel. For summit enthusiasts, it is worth making a detour to the Wilder Gößl (2,062 m). Then descend to Wiesenlacke and continue on trail no. 201 below the Redender Stein to the Albert Appelhaus. The walking time is around 4 hours with 650 meters of ascent and descent.
Stage 4: Albert Appelhaus – Altausseer See
On the last day, we recommend taking a detour via the Wildenseealm to the remote Wildensee lake with the Jungfrauenbründl lucky spot. Then continue via the Augstwiesen up to the Hochklopfsattel, then downhill to the Oberwasseralm and through Stummern down to the Seewiese on Lake Altaussee. After around 5 hours of walking and a 930-meter descent, you will reach your destination.