The classic railway hiking trail in the valley is one of the most popular routes between Mürzzuschlag, Semmering, and Gloggnitz in Lower Austria. It follows the UNESCO World Heritage Semmering Railway in a leisurely fashion. For mountain hikers looking for more panoramic views and a bit more of a technical and physical challenge, the Alpine Railway Hiking Trail was created — high above the historic Semmering line.
The tour begins at the Semmering Pass. Heading north, you’ll reach the 1,291-meter Pinkenkogel summit in about an hour. Sadly, the once-popular Pinkenkogelhaus, located there, is increasingly falling into disrepair. The trail then turns west and follows the border between Lower Austria and Styria through wide forest areas to the 1,402-meter Ochnerhöhe. From there, it briefly swings into Lower Austria before re-entering Styria just before reaching the 1,535-meter Kampalpe (note: the summit cross is not placed on the actual highest point).
The Kampalpe offers a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the Semmering Railway far below, as well as sweeping views into the Mürz Valley. From the Pinkenkogel to the Kampalpe, expect around 2.5 hours of hiking time.
At a trail junction near the Kampalpe, turn left to descend via the Saurücken ridge and the Franziska spring (Franziskaquelle) directly to Spital am Semmering — a descent of about 1.5 hours. The upper section is quite steep, but the path is always well-marked. Just before reaching the train station in Spital, you’ll pass the Zatzka Chapel (Zatzkakapelle), built in 1904 by Viennese master builder Ludwig Zatzka.