The Grossglockner stands as Austria's crown jewel, rising 3,798 meters above sea level at the border between Carinthia and East Tyrol. This majestic peak has drawn mountaineers and hikers for centuries, offering some of the most spectacular alpine scenery in all of Europe.
While reaching the actual summit requires technical climbing skills and proper equipment, the trails around the Grossglockner High Alpine Road provide accessible ways to experience this magnificent mountain. The area offers everything from gentle walks to challenging day hikes, each rewarding visitors with unforgettable views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and dramatic rocky peaks.
Getting There
The Grossglockner High Alpine Road (Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse) is one of Europe's most famous mountain roads, connecting Bruck in Salzburg with Heiligenblut in Carinthia. The road typically opens from early May to early November, weather permitting.
From Salzburg, the drive takes approximately two hours, while from Innsbruck you should allow about three hours. Public transportation options are limited, so having your own vehicle or joining an organized tour is recommended. There is a toll for using the road, with current prices available on the official Grossglockner website.
Recommended Hiking Routes
Gamsgrubenweg Panorama Trail
This accessible panorama trail is perfect for those wanting to experience Grossglockner's beauty without technical climbing. Starting from the Franz-Josefs-Hohe visitor center, the path winds along the mountainside offering continuous views of the Pasterze Glacier and the Grossglockner summit.
Gamsgrubenweg Details
- Distance: 5 kilometers (one way)
- Duration: 2-3 hours return
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Starting point: Franz-Josefs-Hohe (2,369m)
Stockerscharte via Hofmannshutte
For more experienced hikers seeking a challenge, the route to Stockerscharte provides an immersive alpine experience. This trail takes you through varied terrain, from rocky paths to snow patches, depending on the season. The views from the top are extraordinary, encompassing multiple peaks and the vast expanse of the Pasterze.
Note that this route requires good physical fitness and proper hiking equipment. Snow can persist well into summer at higher elevations, making trekking poles and appropriate footwear essential.
The Pasterze Glacier
Austria's longest glacier, the Pasterze stretches approximately 8 kilometers from the base of the Grossglockner. While the glacier has retreated significantly over the past century due to climate change, it remains an impressive sight. The glacier funicular from Franz-Josefs-Hohe takes visitors down to the glacier's edge, where you can walk on the ice itself during guided tours.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal hiking season around Grossglockner runs from late June through September. During this period, most trails are free of snow, and the weather is generally more stable. July and August see the warmest temperatures but also the highest visitor numbers.
For photographers, early morning visits offer the best light and fewer crowds. The golden hours around sunrise and sunset paint the peaks in stunning colors, though this requires either staying overnight in the area or arriving very early.
Where to Stay
Several accommodation options exist in the Grossglockner region:
- Heiligenblut: A picturesque village at the southern end of the High Alpine Road with various hotels and guesthouses
- Fusch: Located on the northern side, offering a quieter alternative
- Mountain huts: The Oberwalder Hutte and Erzherzog-Johann-Hutte provide authentic alpine overnight experiences
Practical Tips
Essential Information
- Check weather conditions before setting out - mountain weather changes rapidly
- Bring layers as temperatures drop significantly at altitude
- Start hikes early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms common in summer
- Carry sufficient water and snacks - facilities are limited on trails
- The visitor center at Franz-Josefs-Hohe has restaurants, exhibitions, and facilities
- Consider purchasing an annual pass if planning multiple visits to the High Alpine Road
Useful Resources
For detailed maps, current conditions, and more information about hiking in the Grossglockner region:
- Official Grossglockner High Alpine Road
- Austrian Alpine Club - for detailed hiking maps and hut information
- Austrian National Tourist Office
