Ötscher Gorges: Hiking Austria's Grand Canyon
Gorges, waterfalls and the historic Mariazell Railway
Photo: Uoaei1, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
- Duration
- 7.0 hours
- Languages
- German, English
This private hike through the Ötscher Gorges takes you into one of Austria's most spectacular canyon landscapes. Arriving on the Mariazell Railway completes a day in the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park.
The Ötscher Gorges in the Mostviertel region are often called Austria's Grand Canyon. Wild streams have carved deep gorges into the limestone, lined with cliffs, forests and turquoise pools. The Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park is the largest nature park in Lower Austria.
Since 1907 the narrow-gauge Mariazell Railway has run from St. Pölten to Mariazell, and it was electrified early on. The stations Wienerbruck and Erlaufklause are ideal starting points for hikes. Along the way you find the Lassing waterfall, suspension bridges and boardwalks right above the water.
Your guide picks a route to suit your fitness, explains the geology and the old timber and rafting trades of the gorges, and knows the best places to rest. Good footwear and sure-footedness are important for this trip.
Highlights
- Deep gorges in Lower Austria's largest nature park
- The Lassing waterfall
- Boardwalks and suspension bridges over turquoise water
- Arrival on the historic Mariazell Railway
- Stories of woodcutters and raftsmen
The route
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1Wienerbruck
Start at the Mariazell Railway station.
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2Lassing waterfall
View of one of the best-known falls.
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3Ötscher Gorges
Hike on boardwalks through the canyon.
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4Ötscherhias
A break at a hut in the gorge.
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5Erlaufklause
Finish and ride back by train.
Who this tour is for
For sure-footed hikers and nature lovers who want a day in wild scenery.
Frequently asked questions
Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are never included in the tour price. When you book, we are happy to tell you which admissions apply to your group.
How is the price calculated?
This is a private tour for your group only. The price is per group, not per person, which makes it great value for families and friends traveling together.
When is the best time for the Ötscher Gorges?
From May to October the trails are usually in good condition. After heavy rain or snow, sections may close, so we check before the tour.
