hike
The hike to the Gamskarkogelhütte from Bad Gastein is a true highlight for mountain lovers. The tour takes you to the Gamskarkogel, which, at 2,467 meters, is considered the highest grass mountain in Europe. The route starts at the Hoteldorf Grüner Baum and passes over the Poserhöhe to the summit. The Gamskarkogelhütte, also known as the Bad Gasteiner Hütte, is located directly at the summit and offers a fantastic panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and the Gastein Valley.
As a local, I recommend starting the hike early in the morning to enjoy the fresh mountain air and peace. Once you reach the Gamskarkogelhütte, be sure to try the Kaspressknödelsuppe – a real treat! The menu is small, but the dishes are very delicious and filling. From the hut, you have a beautiful view of Bad Gastein and the surrounding peaks. After a break, you can either hike back to Bad Gastein along the same route or descend to Hüttschlag on the other side. Both routes offer stunning views and unforgettable nature experiences.
The hike takes about 4.5 hours to ascend, depending on your fitness level. Be sure to factor in time for breaks and the return journey, so plan for the entire trip to take a full day.
The hike is of moderate difficulty and requires a good basic fitness level. Some sections are steep and require surefootedness. However, the trail is well-marked and manageable for experienced hikers.
The best time for this hike is from June to September. During these months, the paths are snow-free, and the temperatures are pleasant. Especially in autumn, the forests around Bad Gastein shine in vibrant colors, making the hike a special experience.
I recommend traveling by car. Alternatively, you can take the train to Bad Gastein and then take a bus to the starting point of the hike.