When the snow shrouds the mountains in silence and the air is clearer than at any other time of year, the most beautiful time begins for all those seeking peace and nature: the winter hiking season.
Away from ski lifts and slopes, Austria reveals its quietest and most impressive side.
We'll show you five regions where winter hiking offers not only exercise but also real experiences.
Winter hiking on the Seefeld plateau (Tyrol)
The Seefeld Plateau is considered one of the most beautiful areas for winter hiking in Tyrol.
Approximately 140 kilometers of prepared trails lead through snow-covered forests, wide meadows and past small chapels, with views of the Karwendel Mountains.
Highlights:
- The hike to the Möserer Seealm (approx. 2 hours)
- Panoramic view over the Inn Valley
- Many cozy places to stop for refreshments
Besides fantastic hiking trails, Seefeld offers a great variety in winter: ski resorts, groomed cross-country ski trails, natural toboggan runs and authentic experiences – from alpaca hikes to romantic horse sleigh rides to a stroll through the Christmas market.
This makes the place not only ideal for day trips, but also perfect for a longer stay with the whole family.
Ramsau am Dachstein – Snowshoeing with a view
The Ramsau am Dachstein region is a classic destination for anyone who loves snowy landscapes.
Whether on snowshoes or winter hiking boots, the route leads through dense forests and across sunny plateaus with spectacular views of the Dachstein massif.
Highlights:
- Over 70 km of winter hiking trails
- High-altitude hike on the Kulmberg with views of the Enns Valley
- Ideal for snowshoe beginners
Zell am See – Kaprun – Winter hiking between lake and glacier
Hardly any region combines water, mountains and snow as impressively as Zell am See – Kaprun.
One of the most beautiful winter hiking trails is the Ronachkopf hike in Thumersbach. An idyllic path through snow-covered forests, leading to the Enzianhütte (Gentian Hut).
Once you reach the top, you can enjoy the view across the frozen Lake Zell to the Kitzsteinhorn glacier. Ideal for families and leisurely hikers.
Highlights:
- Ronachkopf hike to the Enzianhütte (approx. 2-2.5 hours)
- Beautiful view of the lake and glacier
- Sunny slopes and cozy places to stop for refreshments
Salzkammergut – Winter romance between lakes and mountains
In the Salzkammergut region, glittering snow meets frozen lakes.
Whether at Lake Wolfgang, Lake Traun or Lake Fuschl, the winter hiking trails lead directly along the water or to small viewpoints with impressive panoramas.
Highlights:
- Wolfgangsee promenade (approx. 1-1.5 hours), ideal for quiet winter days
- Falkenstein hike (approx. 2.5-3 hours)
- St. Gilgen to Strobl – perfect for leisurely tours
- Many cafes and restaurants for breaks
Tannheimer Valley – the diverse winter paradise
The Tannheim Valley is a real insider tip for Winter hiking in Austria.
Here you can find short walking trails as well as more challenging tours.
Particularly beautiful: the route to Lake Vilsalpsee, surrounded by snow-covered mountains and winter tranquility.
Highlights:
- Circular hike around Lake Vilsalpsee (approx. 2 hours)
- Nesselwängler hiking loop (approx. 3 hours)
- Perfectly combinable with cross-country skiing or snowshoeing
