Themed hiking route "In the footsteps of the pilgrims"

For 400 years, every August you set out on the path from Maria Alm across the Steinernes Meer to St. Bartholomä on the Königssee in neighboring Bavaria. Don't worry, you don't have to take the entire pilgrimage route on this hike, but you will at least get a sense of this very special atmosphere. The starting point is the village square of Maria Alm. Across the bridge opposite, next to the gourmet inn Moserwirt, and past the country guesthouse hotel Almerwirt, path no. 21 branches off to the right toward Dürnberg. Continue along path no. 21c to the guesthouse Kronreith. At the access road, path no. 23 turns left here. The wonderful meadow path is replaced by an idyllic trail through the sparse forest and leads into the alpine pasture area. Past the Kraller farmstead, it goes along the Krallerbach back to the village square. Along the path, five stations provide information about the traditional pilgrimage.

Self-assessment: Check your physical fitness before every mountain tour and correctly assess your strength as well as that of your companions – especially your children! Surefootedness and freedom from dizziness are often very important!

Planning and preparation: Plan each intended mountain tour carefully in advance. Hiking maps and guides as well as advice from alpine clubs and locals such as mountain guides and hut hosts can be helpful.

Equipment: In the mountains, you need appropriate equipment and clothing, especially sturdy, high footwear with a grippy sole. Weather and cold protection are essential as the weather can change unexpectedly.

Weather forecasts: Observe the current weather conditions at: zamg.at or www.uwz.at.

Togetherness: Observe the 10 rules for the right way to handle grazing animals and do not leave any waste in nature!

Do not dislodge stones: Do not dislodge stones as this can seriously endanger other hikers. Marked areas with rockfall danger should be crossed as quickly as possible with attention and caution.

Turn back in time: This is not a disgrace but a sign of prudence. It becomes necessary if the weather changes, fog sets in, or if the path is too difficult or not in good condition.

Emergency numbers: Alpine emergency: 140, International emergency: 112, Rescue: 144

Arrival from Salzburg: On the A10 motorway to the Bischofshofen exit, then on the B311 toward Bischofshofen. Follow the Hochkönig federal road/B164 to Maria Alm.
Arrival from Innsbruck/Kufstein: On the Loferer Straße/B178 toward St. Johann i.T., then via the Hochkönig federal road/B164 via Saalfelden to Maria Alm.
A valid vignette is required for the use of the Austrian motorway and expressway network. There is also a requirement to carry a first aid kit, warning triangle, and reflective vest. More information at Asfinag.

ÖBB-Scotty: Timetable information
Bus line 620: Timetable information
Hiking bus: Timetable information

Further information on hikes and activities in the Hochkönig region:

For detailed information about hiking maps, opening times of mountain railways as well as huts and alpine pastures in summer, we recommend visiting the local service center. There you will not only receive the hiking map but also valuable tips on the best hiking routes and current conditions.

Opening times of mountain railways in summer: The mountain railways offer various opening times during the summer months which may vary depending on the weather and season. Please check the current operating hours in advance.

Opening times of huts & alpine pastures in summer: The huts and alpine pastures in the region are ideal rest stops for hikers. Here too, opening times can vary depending on the season and day of the week. Let the friendly hosts advise you about the offers and specialties on site.

For further information please visit our website: www.hochkoenig.at.

If you have questions or want specific information, please feel free to contact us:

Email: region@hochkoenig.at

Phone: +43 (0)6584 20388

We look forward to helping you and wish you much fun exploring the beautiful hiking region Hochkönig!

Just before Kronreith, there is a botanically interesting raised bog. This themed trail can also be hiked in the opposite direction. The steeper section after the Almerwirt is then omitted.